When preheating a cast iron skillet for cooking eggs, it's essential to achieve the right temperature to prevent sticking and ensure proper cooking. Here's a general guideline for preheating a cast iron skillet for cooking eggs:
Preheating time: Preheat the cast iron skillet on medium-low to medium heat for about 5 minutes. This time allows the skillet to evenly distribute heat and reach a suitable cooking temperature.
Test the temperature: To check if the skillet is adequately preheated, sprinkle a few drops of water onto the surface. If the water droplets sizzle and evaporate almost immediately, the skillet is likely hot enough for cooking eggs.
Adjust heat if needed: If the skillet gets too hot or starts smoking, reduce the heat slightly before adding the eggs. Cast iron retains heat well, so it's better to start with a lower temperature and gradually increase if necessary.
Keep in mind that individual stovetop temperatures and preferences may vary. Adjust the preheating time and temperature as needed to find the right balance for your specific cooktop and desired egg cooking results. Experimentation and practice will help you determine the ideal preheating time for your cast iron skillet.