How to Easily Season Mild Steel BBQ Accessories
Seasoning mild steel is a simple and essential process to protect your BBQ accessories and enhance their longevity. Let's walk through why we use mild steel, the importance of seasoning, and how you can easily season your BBQ items like Kettle Cones, Charcoal Chimneys, and more.
Why Use Mild Steel Over Stainless Steel?
Mild steel is a great choice for BBQ accessories because it's cost-effective, durable, and can handle high temperatures. Unlike stainless steel, which is more resistant to rust but can sometimes have issues with heat retention, mild steel heats up quickly and evenly, making it ideal for grilling and smoking. The trade-off is that mild steel is more prone to rust, which is why seasoning is so important.
What is Seasoning and Why Is It Important?
Seasoning is a process where you apply a layer of oil to mild steel and heat it to create a protective coating. This not only prevents rust but also creates a natural non-stick surface that improves over time. Seasoning is crucial for BBQ accessories like Kettle Cones, Charcoal Chimneys, and Grill Baskets, as it helps keep them in great condition while you cook.
How to Easily Season Your Mild Steel BBQ Accessories
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Clean the Surface: Before seasoning, make sure your BBQ accessory is clean and free of any dust or oil. A quick wipe-down with a clean cloth will do the trick.
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Apply Oil: Use a high-smoke-point oil (like vegetable oil or flaxseed oil). Simply spray or wipe a thin layer of oil over the surface. Make sure to cover every part of the steel, including corners and edges.
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Heat It Up (If Possible): If your item can fit in the oven, preheat it to 200°C (400°F) and bake the item upside down on a rack for about an hour. This will help the oil bond with the steel and form a protective layer.
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For Items You Can't Put in the Oven: If you can't bake your items (like the Kettle Cones, Charcoal Chimneys, Baskets, Rocket Stove, Fire Pits), don't worry! I personally season these products by simply spraying or wiping oil on them before use and after each use. After that, I place them in my Weber BBQ with hot coals. The heat from the coals helps to create the protective coating on the steel.
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Repeat as Needed: You can repeat the seasoning process as many times as you like to build up a stronger, more durable layer. Over time, your BBQ accessories will become more non-stick and resistant to rust.
Conclusion
Seasoning mild steel BBQ accessories is a simple yet effective way to extend their lifespan and improve cooking performance. Whether you're using a Weber Kettle Grill, Charcoal Chimney, or a Rocket Stove, proper seasoning ensures your items stay in top shape for many BBQ sessions to come. Don't forget to season your BBQ gear before and after each use to keep it protected and ready for the next cookout!
