Is a Black, Seasoned Layer on a Stone Normal?

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The thread discusses experiences and opinions regarding the appearance and maintenance of seasoned stones, particularly when a stone appears black and has residual food particles. Participants share their observations and concerns about what constitutes normal seasoning versus buildup from food residue.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based

Main Points Raised

  • One participant describes encountering a round stone that appeared very well seasoned but had black particles coming off when cleaned, raising concerns about whether it was truly seasoning or buildup.
  • Another participant suggests that the black appearance is likely gunk rather than seasoning.
  • One user questions the cleaning habits of the stone's owner, implying that a properly maintained stone should not feel grimy.
  • Another participant mentions having a dark stone that is smooth, indicating that if particles scrape off, it may be old food and oil rather than seasoning.
  • One participant expresses concern that the stone's owner may misunderstand the cleaning process, thinking that avoiding soap means not washing the stone at all.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on whether the black layer is normal seasoning or a result of inadequate cleaning, with no clear consensus emerging.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences with seasoned stones, highlighting variations in maintenance practices and perceptions of what constitutes proper care.

babywings76
babywings76
Gold Member
Messages
7,266
I had a show the other night. We were thinking of using her round stone for something and she got it out for me. It looked incredibly well seasoned, almost black. It had some residual food on it, so I took it to the sink to clean it up real quick so we could use it. Well, as I was using the scraper, little black particles were chipping off. :eek: :confused: It was as if it was baked on residue, not really a seasoning layer. It was coming up just with hot water and my using the nylon pan scraper. I was nervous that I was going to be ruining her stone, I just stopped and rinsed it off. It was quite grimy. So was that not normal? Do you think it wasn't really a seasoning layer, but buildup of junk? I just felt like I could've scraped it all away, given enough time. I don't have a really old, well seasoned stone, so I don't know what it is really like to compare this to. Any thoughts? (We ended up using my bar pan that night)
 
Sounds like gunk, not seasoning. Blech. Good call using your stone instead.
 
Sounds like she doesn't clean her stone after each use??? It shouldn't feel yucky!
 
Mine is really dark (some parts almost black) and it's completely smooth. If stuff scrapes off, it's old food and oil.
 
Sounds like she doesn't clean it. Eww! She may have been under the impression that not using soap meant you don't even wash it at all.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a black, seasoned layer on a Pampered Chef stone normal?

Yes, a black, seasoned layer on a Pampered Chef stone is completely normal. This seasoning develops over time as you use the stone, creating a natural non-stick surface that enhances cooking performance.

How do I maintain the black seasoning on my Pampered Chef stone?

To maintain the black seasoning, avoid using soap or harsh cleaners. Instead, simply scrape off any food residue with a spatula and rinse the stone with hot water. Allow it to air dry completely before storing.

Can I remove the black seasoning from my stone if I don't like it?

While it's possible to remove the seasoning by scrubbing the stone with soap and water, it is not recommended. The seasoning improves the stone's cooking ability, and removing it may lead to sticking and uneven cooking.

Will the black seasoning affect the taste of my food?

No, the black seasoning will not affect the taste of your food. It is simply a buildup of oils and fats from cooking that enhances the stone's non-stick properties and improves flavor over time.

How can I prevent my Pampered Chef stone from becoming too dark?

To prevent your stone from becoming too dark, avoid cooking very greasy foods and ensure that you clean it properly after each use. Regular maintenance will help keep the seasoning layer balanced and functional.

You must log in or register to reply here.

Similar Pampered Chef Threads

Cookies Burning on Seasoned Bar Pan
  • Shari in TX
    • Products and Tips
Replies
4
Views
3K
Shari in TX
Is the Raised Lid on My DCB Normal? And How Do I Prevent Odor on Stoneware?
  • Becky0216
    • Products and Tips
Replies
4
Views
1K
Becky0216
Sarah Asks: Product for Stove Top & Experienced with Seasoned Stoneware?
  • snugbug
    • Products and Tips
Replies
15
Views
2K
BethCooks4U
Seven Layer Southwestern Salad Question
  • jesusluvsu2005
    • Recipes and Tips
Replies
12
Views
3K
Shawnna
Smelly, Leaky, Grease Ridden Bar Pan
  • Dotty
    • Products and Tips
2
Replies
38
Views
10K
etteluap70PC
Perfect Cookies on the Bar Pan: Tips and Tricks for Using Stoneware
  • emiscookin
    • Products and Tips
Replies
10
Views
13K
wadesgirl
Why Do Fish Sticks Get Soggy on Well-Seasoned Stoneware?
  • Bren706
    • Pampered Chef Stoneware
Replies
7
Views
4K
ShellBeach
Urgent Got a Question From a Customer About Her Bar Pan...can You Help?
  • jesusluvsu2005
    • Products and Tips
Replies
19
Views
3K
kcjodih
Can You Burn the Executive Cookware?
  • pamperedval
    • Products and Tips
Replies
14
Views
4K
heather223
Pizza Stone Not Seasoning - Is Oil the Culprit?
  • Boomerjojo
    • Pampered Chef Stoneware
Replies
2
Views
3K
Admin Greg
Back
Top