Questions about a Cast Iron Skillet, I got free…

[John Gusmano]

Ok fellas, I was talking with my sister last night over her house and it got brought up how I want to start cooking with mainly cast iron cookware. I was explaining to her about the seasoning process, and how to properly clean them, and so on. She then proceeds to tell me that she has a cast iron skillet that she doesn’t use and gives it to me. I asked her if she ever used it, she said one time, then put it in the dishwasher! So, now I have this cast iron skillet (my first), what do I do? Do I just re-season it, like it JC’s video? Also, the other weird thing about it is that the outside of it is painted green? I’m not sure what that is all about….

Anyone’s advice on the subject matter please let me know! Thanks in advance Swampers!

[Jack of all Trapping]

I love my cast iron!!! I would be a little hesitant about using any pan with paint on it , even if it is only on the outside. I would try firing it up outside first to see if it gives off any type of fumes from the paint. If all is ok, I would re- season it

[NKunkel]

Ive used JC's methods for cleaning cast iron and treating on several skillets ive picked up and its worked great! As for the paint thing ive never actually heard of anyone doing that before. But yes I would try it outside as mentioned before. Im not sure if you can use any cleansers on the pan either maybe someone with a lot more experience can lend a hand. I love my cast iron ive slowly been swapping it with my Teflon pans. Best of luck to you!

[patricimo54]

Is it paint or a porcelin ceramic coating? I have a large porcelin ceramic coated cast iron dutch oven that I use for chowders,stews and such. Blue on the outside, white on the inside.

[John Gusmano]

I'm willing to bet it is a ceramic coating. I just reseasoned it and it is in oven as I write this. I'll see how it goes! Thanks fellas, soon I'll be purchasing a 5 piece cast iron set from Lodge.... I'm looking forward to my journey into the world of cast iron!!!

[Tim bly]

I love cast iron pans for camping you can put them on hot coals and they will not warp

[mitrapline]

John, you can't beat a meal cooked in CI. The Lodge brand is great........I have several pieces and they have all provided great food. They are easy to care for and clean up well. Hope you enjoy them.