The trick to a good Dutch oven is proper seasoning prior to use. Old Ironware was coated with varnish or
lacquer to prevent rusting. “Seasoning” was a term which referred to scrubbing or burning off the coating. Modern day ovens still need a good washing in hot sudsy water and then completely dried. This is the only time you should ever wash your Dutch oven in water. Next, heat your oven and boil grease in it. Use a clean rag to completely coat the inside, outside, top and bottom of your oven. When the grease starts to smoke, remove the oven from the heat and wipe it out. Leave a little grease as a protective coating
SEASONING YOUR DUTCH OVEN
