If you don't season a cast iron skillet, a few things can happen:
Rust: Cast iron is prone to rusting when exposed to moisture and air. Without seasoning, the skillet's surface is not protected, and it can easily develop rust, especially in humid or damp conditions.
Food sticking: Seasoning creates a natural non-stick surface on the cast iron. Without proper seasoning, food is more likely to stick to the skillet, making cooking and cleaning more difficult.
Flavors may transfer: Cast iron has the ability to absorb and retain flavors from the foods cooked in it. When a skillet is unseasoned, it may not develop a protective layer that helps prevent flavors from transferring between different dishes. As a result, you might experience unwanted flavor transfer in your cooking.
Uneven heat distribution: A well-seasoned cast iron skillet distributes heat evenly, allowing for consistent cooking results. Without seasoning, heat distribution may become uneven, resulting in hot spots or unevenly cooked food.
Seasoning a cast iron skillet involves creating a polymerized oil layer that acts as a protective coating, preventing rust, enhancing non-stick properties, and improving heat distribution. Properly seasoning your skillet helps maintain its longevity and performance over time.