Using cooking spray on a cast iron skillet is generally not recommended, especially if the skillet has a well-established seasoning layer. Cooking sprays can leave behind a residue that can build up over time, negatively affecting the non-stick properties of the skillet and potentially causing it to become sticky.
Instead of using cooking spray, it's better to apply a small amount of oil manually to the cast iron skillet before cooking. Here's how you can do it:
Preheat the skillet: Place the empty cast iron skillet on the stove and preheat it over medium heat for a few minutes.
Add oil: Once the skillet is hot, turn the heat to low, and add a small amount of oil. You can use oils with high smoke points, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, grapeseed oil, or flaxseed oil. Avoid using oils with low smoke points like olive oil.
Spread the oil: Use a paper towel or a heat-resistant brush to spread the oil evenly across the surface of the skillet, including the bottom and sides.
Remove excess oil: After coating the skillet with oil, use a clean paper towel to wipe away any excess oil. The goal is to have a very thin and even layer of oil on the skillet.
Cook your food: Now you can cook your food as usual in the cast iron skillet.
By manually applying oil to the skillet, you can control the amount and type of oil used, which helps maintain the integrity of the seasoning and preserves the non-stick properties of the cast iron.
If you find that your cast iron skillet needs re-seasoning or if the cooking surface is becoming sticky, you can strip the old seasoning and start the seasoning process from scratch. There are various methods for re-seasoning a cast iron skillet, and you can choose the one that suits you best. Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations and best practices for caring for your specific cast iron skillet.