Blue Steel Pizza Pan: Seasoning Secrets

Seasoning a blue steel pizza pan is essential to prevent your pizza from sticking to the pan and to protect the pan from corrosion and rust. The process involves cleaning the pan, applying a thin layer of oil, and then baking the pan in the oven. This creates a protective, non-stick layer on the surface of the pan. You can use a variety of oils, such as grapeseed oil, canola oil, or vegetable oil, but it's important to choose an oil with a high smoke point to avoid burning. The seasoning process should be repeated regularly, depending on the frequency of use, to maintain the quality of the pan.

How to season a blue steel pizza pan before first use

To season a blue steel pizza pan before its first use, you must clean and dry it thoroughly. Then, apply a thin layer of oil with a high smoke point, such as grapeseed or canola oil, and bake the pan in the oven for 30 minutes to an hour at 350°F (175°C). This process will create a protective layer on the surface of the pan, making it more resistant to sticking and less prone to rusting.

• Clean your blue steel pizza pan: Use warm water and a microfiber cloth to clean the pan. You can also use a sponge or nylon brush to remove any excess flour, melted cheese, or sauce. Ensure that the pan is completely dry before proceeding to the next step.
• Apply a thin layer of oil: Choose a flavor-neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as grapeseed or canola oil. Spread a thin layer of oil on the surface of the pan, ensuring that it is evenly coated. Use a paper towel to wipe off any excess oil.
• Bake the pan in the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the oiled pan in the oven and bake it for 30 minutes to an hour. This process will create a non-stick surface on the steel and help prevent corrosion and rust.
• Allow the pan to cool: Once the time is up, turn off the oven and leave the pan inside to cool completely. Do not handle the pan while it is still hot, as it can cause burns.
• Store the pan in a dry place: After the pan has cooled, store it in a dry, moisture-free area. Avoid storing it in humid environments, as moisture can cause rust.

By following these steps, you will properly season your blue steel pizza pan, ensuring that it is non-stick, rust-resistant, and ready for its first use.

How to clean a blue steel pizza pan

To clean a blue steel pizza pan, it is important to note that it should never be washed with soap and water. In fact, your pans should never come into contact with water at all. Use a plastic scraper to remove excess oil and crumbs from the pan, ensuring that there is no leftover debris inside. You can also use a sponge or nylon brush to clean it properly. If that is not enough, you can use steel wool or an EarthStone Cleaning Block for particularly tough spots.

Once cleaned, your blue steel pizza pan should be brushed with a coating of vegetable-based oil and stacked for storage. Always store pans in a clean, dry place where they won't get wet. If it will be more than two weeks before the pans are used again, do not oil them before storage. Instead, oil them just before baking. Make sure to coat the bottom, corners, and sides well to reduce or eliminate sticking.

How to store a blue steel pizza pan

To store a blue steel pizza pan, follow these steps:

• Clean your pizza pan by hand with warm water. You can use a small amount of mild soap, but this is not necessary. Avoid using too much soap, as it can strip the pan's seasoning. Alternatively, use a pan scraper, scrub brush, or non-scratch pad. For stuck-on food, simmer a little water for 3-5 minutes, then use the scraper after the pan has cooled.
• Dry the pan promptly and thoroughly with a lint-free cloth or paper towel. It is important to ensure that the pan is completely dry before storing it.
• Apply a light coating of oil to the pan. You can use vegetable-based oils such as vegetable oil or canola oil, or other types of cooking oil or seasoning spray. Rub the oil onto the pan until it is evenly distributed across the bottom, corners, and sides of the pan. This will help to reduce or eliminate sticking during future use.
• Stack the pans for storage. Always store your blue steel pizza pans in a clean, dry place where they will not come into contact with water or moisture.

If you plan on storing your blue steel pizza pans for more than two weeks before using them again, it is recommended to not oil them before storage. Instead, oil them just before baking your next pizza.

How to know when to re-season a blue steel pizza pan

Blue steel pizza pans are made from uncoated carbon steel and must be seasoned before use. Seasoning is the process of creating a natural, non-stick coating on the surface of the cookware. This is done by applying a thin layer of oil and heating the pan to a specific temperature. The oil polymerises and forms a protective layer that prevents food from sticking and protects the pan from rust and corrosion.

How often you need to re-season your pizza pan depends on how frequently you use it. A general rule of thumb is to re-season every 3-6 months (2-4 times a year). If you use your pizza pan at least once a week, you should re-season it every 3 months or so.

You should also re-season your pizza pan when food starts to stick to the surface, the surface of the pan starts to look grey, or rust is starting to form.

Some signs that your pan may need to be re-seasoned include:

• Food is sticking to the pan
• The pan is difficult to clean
• The colour of the pan has changed (discolouration may be due to the carbon residue that builds up on blue steel pans over time)
• The pan has developed rust spots

If your pan has developed rust, you can try using steel wool or sandpaper to scrub away the rust. Then, re-season your pan and ensure it is stored in a dry place to prevent further rust from developing.

Common mistakes to avoid when seasoning a blue steel pizza pan

Seasoning a blue steel pizza pan is essential to prevent your pizza from sticking to the pan and ruining your meal. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when seasoning your pan:

Not Seasoning the Pan Correctly:

Seasoning your blue steel pizza pan is crucial to creating a non-stick surface. If you don't season it properly before use, your pizza may stick to the pan. Be sure to follow the correct procedure: clean the pan with warm water, dry it thoroughly, and then apply a thin layer of vegetable oil, animal fat, or salt.

Using the Wrong Oil:

When seasoning your blue steel pizza pan, it's important to use the right type of oil. Vegetable-based oils, such as vegetable oil or canola oil, are recommended. Avoid using too much oil, as it can puddle and affect the dough's stretch.

Not Drying the Pan Properly:

Carbon steel, the material used for blue steel pizza pans, is prone to rusting if not dried properly. After washing your pan, ensure you dry it thoroughly with a towel or by heating it at a low temperature until completely dry.

Improper Cleaning:

When cleaning your blue steel pizza pan, avoid using soap or harsh cleaning products, as they can damage the seasoning. Warm water and a non-abrasive sponge or brush are best. It's okay to leave some cooking residue on the pan, as it helps maintain the seasoning.

Using Metal Utensils:

Carbon steel is a relatively soft metal, so using metal utensils can scratch or damage your blue steel pizza pan. Opt for wooden, silicone, or nylon utensils instead to protect the surface of your pan.

Excessive Heat:

Carbon steel is an excellent heat conductor, but it can also get too hot too quickly. Start with low to medium heat when cooking your pizza to avoid burning it or damaging the pan.

Improper Storage:

To prevent rusting, always store your blue steel pizza pan in a dry place. If stacking multiple pans, use a paper towel or a protective layer between them to avoid scratches.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your blue steel pizza pan is properly seasoned and will deliver perfect pizzas for years to come.

Frequently asked questions