Cast Iron Cooking Grate

tach18k

Just got mine today. If this thing painted? It sure looks it. It certainly seems odd to paint CI for cooking. How do I season a painted piece of metal?

RRP

tach18k,
while I have not seen a BGE cast iron grate for a large (kinda feels like a manhole cover I bet) I highly doubt it was painted. About a month ago I purchased a 13 x 16 cast iron grate and then using a sabre saw cut a 13" diameter circle out of it for my small BGE. I am so sold on that cast iron for my small!!! but I digressed didn't I? Anyway my grate also looked so perfect with a sheen and uniform color to it. I'm sure there was something sprayed on to prevent rust from forming until it is put to use. I seasoned mine in a high fire and then coated with Criso like I seasoned a Lodge Dutch oven pot. Now it is a cool black and nothing sticks to it. Go ahead and fire it and season that new grate...bet you'll love it. Just don't drop that thing for the obvioius damage it could inflict to ceramic, deck, toes etc etc etc

Borders

tach18k, it's not painted, it's just purty.

Topo Gigio

tach18k, I have had mine for a year and its the best for TREX steaks because its retains the heat and as a result you get the best sear and grill marks. Its not painted, that's the natural colour of cast iron. After a repeated seasoning and use it will turn shiny black and will be non-stick. Don't use it until you have seasoned it at least once. There a few things you should know about cast iron care. When cared for properly it will last forever.[p]See link for FAQ on care and use of cast iron.
[ul][li]Use and Care of Cast Iron[/ul]

Unknown

tach18k,[p]The grate probably has a ptotective coating on it like parafin. Heat it to burn it off and season as you would regular castiron ware. It should last you a lifetime.