The difference between pre-seasoned and unseasoned cast iron skillets lies in their initial coating or treatment of the cooking surface.
Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillets: Pre-seasoned cast iron skillets come with a layer of seasoning already applied to the cooking surface. Seasoning refers to a protective layer of polymerized oil that is formed by repeatedly heating oil on the cast iron surface. This process creates a natural non-stick surface and helps prevent rusting. Pre-seasoned skillets are ready to use right out of the box and don't require any additional seasoning before cooking. They typically have a dark, smooth cooking surface.
Unseasoned Cast Iron Skillets: Unseasoned cast iron skillets, also known as raw or bare cast iron skillets, do not have a pre-applied seasoning layer. They have a gray or silver appearance and may have a rough texture. Before using an unseasoned skillet, it needs to be seasoned by the user. Seasoning involves applying a thin layer of oil to the cooking surface and baking it in the oven at a high temperature. This process helps create a non-stick coating and prevents rust. Unseasoned skillets require some initial effort and time to season before they develop the desired non-stick properties.
In summary, pre-seasoned cast iron skillets come seasoned from the manufacturer, while unseasoned cast iron skillets require seasoning by the user before use. Pre-seasoned skillets are convenient as they are ready to use, while unseasoned skillets offer the flexibility to customize the seasoning process according to personal preference. Both types of skillets can be used for cooking and offer the benefits of cast iron's excellent heat retention and even heat distribution.