I think it is essential that every kitchen is stocked with a good cast iron skillet, they are so versatile and the flavor they hold and add to dishes can’t be beat. The best thing to do would be to buy a skillet from a thrift shop because they have been used countless times and the seasoning is amazing. When you buy a new cast iron skillet, you definitely want to season it up before you use it. There are so many ways to do this, but here’s how I do mine.

What you’ll need: A new cast iron skillet, bacon fat

Every time I cook with bacon I save the fat in a container in the freezer. My mom taught me this trick, so that every time you need some grease- weather to fry up something or season a skillet- you have some on hand.

On your stove top, heat up your skillet and add the bacon fat.

Once your bacon grease melts all the way, take some tongs and a paper towel and coat the whole pan- edges and all- with the grease.

Then in a 375 degree oven, bake your pan for at least an hour. I did mine for 2.

After a few hours remove the skillet and again with the tongs and paper towel rub the pan and edges, soaking up any excess grease.

Let the pan cool down and you are ready to rock and roll! Don’t have a cast iron yet? Christmas is just around the corner, add it to your list!