Expert: John Langenfelder - 7/21/2008

Question
I know nothing about cast iron grates.  Do I have to season them first.  Do you use them sharp side up or down.  Preheat the grill or let the grill heat up with the meat. ( I am using a gas grill). Anything else that I need to know for perfect results as I am a very poor Griller

Answer
Al,

You are not a poor griller, just a little inexperienced.  With cast iron grilles. they have a tendency to rust so you must keep them oiled.  Oil them every time you use them  A little spray oil works fine. Best way to do it is heat the grill, turn off the grill, spray the oil on the grates and use a paper towel to wipe them down.  Be careful it will be hot.  Use a pair of tongs with the paper towel.  When putting the grill up for the season (if you do so), make sure you thoroughly coat the grates with oil to prevent rust.

The "sharp" side is for grilling, the flatter side is for searing.  I always use the grilling side.