This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2007, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
To season a brand new Dutch oven, wash and scrub it in hot water - don't use soap - to remove the oil and wax put on at the factory. Coat the inside with shortening .
Heat an oven or an outdoor grill to 400 degrees. Place the greased Dutch oven upside down in the oven or covered grill. Heat for 30 mintues.
Shut the oven off and let the Dutch oven cool. When you can touch it with your hands easily, take it out of the oven and replace the lid. Let the Dutch oven cool completely before storing.
Use your Dutch oven often. The more it is used, the more seasoned and nonstick it becomes.
Source: 101 Things to do With a Dutch Oven, by Vernon Winterton ($9.95, Gibbs Smith)
