Birch Firewood: Heating, Species & Creosote

Birch firewood suitability is often questioned, but its characteristics depend on the specific birch species, moisture content, and intended use. White birch, also known as paper birch, is a common variety that many people use as firewood. Seasoned birch, properly dried, provides a moderate heat output, making it a practical option for shoulder season burning or supplemental heat. However, birch bark contains oils that contribute to faster burning and a pleasant aroma but also causes creosote buildup in chimneys.

Birch: Nature’s Kindling with a Touch of Class

Okay, let’s talk birch. Not the kind you climb as a kid (though those are fun too), but the kind that warms your toes and makes your home smell like a forest fairy’s cottage! Birch firewood is like that reliable friend who always brings the good vibes. It’s popular for a reason, folks. It’s got that rustic, woodsy appeal and it’s actually pretty darn practical.

Why Birch? The Perks of This Popular Firewood

So, what makes birch so special? Well, for starters, it’s got a fantastic aroma. Seriously, burning birch is like aromatherapy for wood-burning enthusiasts. Forget those artificial air fresheners – birch brings the real deal. Plus, it’s a breeze to ignite. That papery bark? It’s basically nature’s fire starter. Say goodbye to wrestling with stubborn logs! And while it might not be the heavyweight champ in terms of heat output, it provides a moderate, cozy warmth that’s perfect for taking the chill off without turning your living room into a sauna. It’s the Goldilocks of firewood – just right!

Your Comprehensive Guide to Birch Firewood

Now, before you go chopping down every birch tree in sight (please don’t!), let’s get you prepped with some knowledge. This blog post is your ultimate guide to using birch firewood effectively and, most importantly, safely. We’re going to dive deep into everything you need to know, from identifying different birch species to mastering the art of seasoning. By the end of this, you’ll be a birch-burning boss, impressing your friends with your wood-fueled wisdom!

Know Your Birch: Identifying Different Species

Okay, so you’re hooked on the idea of birch firewood. Awesome! But hold your horses (or, uh, your axes) for a sec. Not all birch is created equal. Just like dogs come in all shapes and sizes, so does this popular firewood. Knowing your birch varieties is key to getting the best burn for your buck. Let’s dive into a quick birch-watching guide.

Spotting the Suspects: Common Birch Species

Think of this as your birch lineup. These are the usual suspects you’ll find being turned into firewood:

• Paper Birch (Betula papyrifera): This is the classic birch. The one you see in all the pictures. Its bark is bright white, peels off in papery layers (hence the name), and has those distinctive black markings. The leaves are oval-shaped with toothed edges.

• Yellow Birch (Betula alleghaniensis): This one’s a bit sneakier. Its bark is yellowish-bronze, peeling in thin, curly strips. It often has a faint wintergreen smell when scratched. The leaves are similar to paper birch but slightly more elongated. The yellow birch is a little better for firewood as its a hardwood.

• White Birch (Betula pendula): Often confused with paper birch, this European native is becoming increasingly common. Its bark is white but tends to be smoother and less prone to peeling than paper birch, especially as the tree matures. It often develops black, fissured bark at the base.

Barking Up the Right Tree: Identification Tips

Alright, detective time! Here’s how to tell these guys apart:

• Bark Characteristics: This is your primary clue. Paper birch = bright white, peeling. Yellow birch = yellowish-bronze, curly strips. White birch = smoother white bark, black fissures at the base as the tree matures.

• Leaf Shape: Look closely! Are the leaves more oval or elongated? Are the edges coarsely or finely toothed? Leaf shape can be a subtle but helpful indicator.

Density and Heat Output: The Nitty-Gritty

Okay, so you know what they are. But how do they burn? Here’s the short version:

• Generally, yellow birch is the densest of the three, meaning it’ll give you the most heat per cord and burn the longest. Paper birch is a close second, while white birch is typically the least dense.

• Don’t get too hung up on this, though. The differences aren’t huge, and proper seasoning is way more important than species when it comes to heat output.

Location, Location, Location: Regional Availability

Finally, consider where you live! Paper birch is widespread across North America. Yellow birch prefers the Eastern parts of North America. White birch, as mentioned, is originally a European species but has been introduced to many areas.

• Your best bet is to use whatever birch is readily available in your area. It’ll save you money and reduce the environmental impact of transporting firewood long distances.

The Bottom Line: Knowing your birch is cool, but don’t let it paralyze you. Any of these species will make decent firewood if you season it properly. Happy burning!

The Firewood Fundamentals: Qualities That Matter

Alright, let’s dive into what really makes firewood, well, firewood-worthy! It’s not just about grabbing any old log and tossing it in the fireplace (though, let’s be honest, we’ve all been tempted). There are a few key things to keep in mind, and understanding them will make you a firewood aficionado in no time!

Heat Output (BTU): Feeling the Burn

First up, we’ve got Heat Output, often measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units). Think of BTU as a measure of how much oomph a piece of wood has when it burns. The higher the BTU, the more heat you’ll get.

But what exactly *is a BTU?* It’s the amount of energy needed to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. Mind-blowing, right?

Now, when it comes to birch, different species have different BTU ratings. Generally, you’ll find that yellow birch packs a bit more heat than paper birch. But don’t get too hung up on the exact numbers – it’s more about understanding the concept. A higher BTU rating means more cozy warmth for your buck!

Seasoning: The Patience Game

Next, and arguably the most important, is Seasoning. No, we’re not talking about adding salt and pepper (though, that would be a weirdly interesting experiment). Seasoning, in firewood terms, is all about drying the wood.

Freshly cut wood is full of moisture – and water doesn’t burn well, trust me. Seasoning allows that moisture to escape, leaving you with wood that’s ready to blaze. Properly seasoned birch will be lighter in weight, often have cracks on the ends, and make a satisfying “clunk” when you bang two pieces together.

Smoke Production: Clearing the Air

Speaking of moisture, burning unseasoned wood is a recipe for Smoky Disaster. Not only will it produce less heat, but it’ll also pump out tons of smoke. And that smoke? It’s loaded with creosote, a nasty substance that can build up in your chimney and cause – wait for it – a CHIMNEY FIRE! Nobody wants that. So, season your wood!

Splitting and Handling: Getting Physical

Finally, let’s talk about Splitting and Handling. Birch, generally speaking, is fairly easy to split when it’s green (freshly cut). Once it dries out, it can become a bit tougher. As for weight, birch is considered a medium-density wood. It’s not as heavy as oak, but it’s not as light as pine.

This means it’s manageable for most folks to handle and stack.

Birch in the Blaze: Understanding Its Burning Behavior

Okay, so you’ve got your birch, it’s seasoned, and you’re ready to light it up. But before you strike that match, let’s get a handle on how this stuff actually burns. Think of it as getting to know your fuel – like understanding a quirky roommate.

Ignition: Ready, Set, Whoosh!

Birch is the Usain Bolt of firewood ignition. Thanks to that uber-flammable papery bark, it catches fire faster than you can say “s’more.” Seriously, you barely need a match to get this stuff going. This is a huge win when you’re battling a stubborn fire or just impatient to feel the warmth. Just be mindful – with great ignition speed comes great responsibility (to not burn your eyebrows off).

Burn Rate: Fast and Furious

Now, here’s the thing: birch burns relatively fast. It’s like the energetic friend who’s always up for anything but burns out quickly. This means you’ll need to feed the fire more often than if you were using something like oak. The upside? A super-hot fire, fast. The downside? You’ll be doing your best fire-tending impression more frequently. Think of it as a high-maintenance relationship with your fireplace – rewarding, but demanding.

Sparking: Pop, Fizz, Beware!

Some birch species, especially when not fully seasoned, can be a bit… enthusiastic. By enthusiastic, I mean they spark and pop like a low-budget fireworks display. This isn’t a huge deal, but it does mean you absolutely need a good fireplace screen. Nobody wants a rogue ember setting their rug (or worse) ablaze. Consider it birch’s little quirk – a bit of extra personality that requires a little extra caution.

Flame Characteristics: A Fiery Show

Finally, let’s talk aesthetics. Birch flames are generally bright, lively, and cheerful. They tend to be more yellowish-orange than some other hardwoods. And, they fill the room with that amazing aroma that only birch can deliver. The flames dance merrily and fill the room with that characteristic, slightly sweet smell that can only come from burning birch. Think of it as the visual and olfactory equivalent of a cozy hug.

The Drying Game: Seasoning Birch for Optimal Burning

Alright, so you’ve got your birch, you’ve bucked it, and you’re ready to go, right? Wrong! Burning green birch is like trying to run a marathon in flip-flops. It’s just not gonna end well (or warmly). Seasoning, my friends, is the secret sauce to unlocking birch’s full potential. Let’s break down how to turn those logs into firewood gold.

Optimal Storage Conditions: Location, Location, Location!

Think of your firewood pile as a sunbather. It wants a prime spot to soak up those rays and catch a breeze.

• Sun’s Out, Guns Out (or Wood Out): Choose a spot that gets plenty of direct sunlight. UV rays help break down the wood fibers and dry things out faster. Think south-facing if you’re in the Northern Hemisphere.
• Breezy Does It: Airflow is your best friend in this game. A windy spot will whisk away moisture like a magician. Avoid tucking your woodpile away in a damp, sheltered corner.
• Off the Ground: Don’t let your precious birch sit directly on the soil. Moisture from the ground will wick up into the wood like a thirsty sponge. Use pallets, gravel, or even scrap lumber to create a barrier. Think of it as giving your firewood a VIP experience – a raised platform away from the riff-raff of the wet earth.

Stacking Methods: Building a Firewood Fortress

How you stack your wood is crucial for airflow and stability. We don’t want a firewood avalanche! Here are a couple of popular options:

• Crisscross (The Classic): This is the old reliable. Stack rows of wood perpendicular to each other, creating gaps for air to circulate. It’s simple, effective, and looks pretty darn neat.
• Holz Hausen (The Showstopper):******_For the ambitious firewood aficionado, the Holz Hausen is a circular stack with a slightly inward slope._ It’s more labor-intensive but provides excellent airflow and sheds water effectively. Plus, it’s a real conversation starter.
• Lean-To (The Lazy Method): Don’t have the time to be neat? Lean the wood against an existing structure so that it is off the ground. Not the most ideal, but better than stacking it on the ground.

Moisture Meters: The Techy Way to Tell

Want to know for sure when your wood is ready? Invest in a moisture meter. These handy gadgets measure the moisture content of wood.

• How to Use: Simply stick the probes into a freshly split piece of wood and get a reading.
• The Magic Number: Aim for a moisture content below 20%. This is the sweet spot for efficient burning, less smoke, and maximum heat.
• Where to Buy: You can find moisture meters at most hardware stores or online retailers.

Seasoning Time: Patience is a Virtue (Especially with Firewood)

There’s no magic wand to dry firewood instantly. It takes time, but the wait is worth it.

• The General Rule: Plan on 6-12 months of seasoning for birch, depending on your climate and the species. Dryer climates will speed things up, while humid environments will require more time.
• The Waiting Game: Don’t be tempted to burn wood before it’s properly seasoned. Trust me, it’s not worth the frustration (or the creosote buildup).

Consequences of Improper Seasoning: A Smoky Horror Story

Burning wet wood is a recipe for disaster. Here’s what you can expect:

• Low Heat Output: Wet wood is like trying to light a damp candle. Most of the energy goes into boiling off the water, leaving you with a wimpy fire and a chilly room.
• Excessive Smoke: Ever sat around a campfire that’s billowing smoke in your face? That’s the joy of burning unseasoned wood.
• Creosote Buildup: This is the biggie. Creosote is a tar-like substance that accumulates in your chimney when you burn wet wood. It’s highly flammable and a major fire hazard. Regular chimney cleanings are vital, especially if you burn a lot of unseasoned wood.
• A Disappointed Fireplace: No one wants a sad fireplace! Use properly seasoned firewood and your fireplace will be happy and warm.

Birch’s Best Uses: Applications for This Firewood

So, you’ve got a stack of beautiful birch, seasoned to perfection, and you’re itching to put it to good use? Awesome! Birch isn’t a one-trick pony; it’s a versatile firewood option that shines in a bunch of different scenarios. Let’s dive into the best ways to unleash the fiery potential of your birch.

Residential Heating: Cozy Up Indoors

• Fireplaces: There’s something undeniably magical about a crackling fire in the fireplace. Birch is fantastic for fireplaces because it’s easy to ignite and produces a pleasant aroma. It may not have the longest burn time compared to something like oak, but it creates a lovely, inviting atmosphere, especially on those chilly evenings. Just remember your fireplace screen – birch can be a bit sparky!
• Wood Stoves: Wood stoves are heating powerhouses, and birch can certainly play a role. Its moderate heat output is ideal for shoulder seasons (spring and fall) when you don’t need to crank up the heat too much. Keep in mind that you might need to reload more frequently than with denser hardwoods.
• Furnaces: If you have a wood-burning furnace, birch can be used, but it’s probably best mixed with other hardwoods for optimal efficiency. Due to its faster burn rate, you might find yourself feeding the furnace more often than you’d like if you’re relying solely on birch during the peak of winter.

Outdoor Uses: Adventure Awaits

• Campfires: Ah, the campfire! Birch is a total champ here. It lights easily, even when you’re dealing with less-than-ideal conditions (slightly damp kindling, anyone?). That papery bark is like nature’s fire starter. Just be mindful of the potential for sparking and keep a safe distance from flammable materials.
• Outdoor Cooking: Birch can add a subtle, sweet flavor to your outdoor cooking. It’s great for grilling, smoking, or even just roasting marshmallows over an open flame. The key is to let it burn down to embers for a more consistent and less smoky heat.
• Fire Pits: Fire pits are all about ambiance, and birch delivers! The flickering flames and gentle warmth create a cozy gathering spot. Again, watch out for those sparks and make sure your fire pit is a safe distance from anything that could catch fire. Safety first, fun second!

Commercial Applications: Niche Heating Needs

• Saunas: In some cultures, birch is traditionally used in saunas, not necessarily as the primary fuel source, but for its aromatic properties. Burning birch can infuse the sauna with a pleasant, cleansing scent.
• Pizza Ovens: The quick, hot burn of birch makes it a viable option for heating pizza ovens, especially in a pinch. It helps get the oven up to temperature quickly. Note: it is not always suitable because some people might prefer hardwoods with longer burn times for sustained high heat.
• Other Specialized Heating Systems: There might be other niche commercial applications where birch is a suitable fuel, such as certain types of pottery kilns or blacksmithing forges. However, these uses are less common and depend heavily on the specific requirements of the system.

Birch vs. the Competition: How Does It Stack Up?

So, you’re digging the idea of birch firewood, huh? Smart choice! But before you go all-in on Birchmania, let’s see how it squares off against some of the other contenders in the firewood ring. Think of this as a firewood “Battle Royale,” but instead of weapons, we’re using BTUs and seasoning times.

Birch vs. Oak: The Heavyweight Bout

First up, we’ve got Oak, the undisputed heavyweight champion of heat output. Oak burns hot and long, making it perfect for those bone-chilling winter nights. BUT (and it’s a big but), oak takes forever to season – like, “see you next year (or the year after that)” forever. Birch, on the other hand, seasons much quicker, so you can get that fire going sooner. Think of oak as the marathon runner and birch as the sprinter.

Birch vs. Pine: The Speedy Gonzales of Firewood

Next, we’ve got Pine, the eager beaver of the firewood world. Pine is super easy to ignite – even a caveman could start a fire with it. But here’s the rub: pine burns fast. Like, “blink and you’ll miss it” fast. Plus, it tends to produce more smoke than birch, which isn’t ideal for indoor fires. Pine is like that friend who’s always up for a party but crashes hard by 9 PM.

Birch vs. Maple: The Reliable All-Star

Now, let’s bring in Maple, the dependable all-star of firewood. Maple’s got a good balance of heat output and density, making it a solid all-around choice. It’s not the hottest, not the fastest-burning, but it’s consistent and reliable. Birch gives it a run for its money in ease of splitting, though!

Birch vs. Ash: The Easy-Splitting Contender

Finally, we’ve got Ash, often considered the oak alternative. Ash boasts similar burning characteristics to oak, providing a good heat output. The real kicker? It’s often easier to split than oak, saving you some sweat equity. However, availability can be a factor; ash isn’t as widely available as some other options.

Firewood Face-Off: A Quick Comparison Chart

To make things easier, here’s a handy-dandy table summarizing the pros and cons:

Firewood Type	Heat Output	Seasoning Time	Ease of Splitting	Smoke Production
Birch	Moderate	Medium	Easy	Moderate
Oak	High	Long	Difficult	Low
Pine	Low	Short	Easy	High
Maple	Moderate	Medium	Moderate	Low
Ash	High	Medium	Easy-Moderate	Low

Ultimately, the best firewood for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider your climate, your appliance, and how much effort you’re willing to put into seasoning and splitting. But hey, you can’t go wrong with good old birch!

Playing It Safe: Fire Safety Considerations When Burning Birch

Alright, let’s talk safety, folks! We all love a crackling birch fire, but it’s crucial to remember that fire is a powerful force. A little know-how can make all the difference between a cozy evening and a potential disaster. So, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of burning birch safely.

Creosote: The Silent Danger

Imagine your chimney as a highway for smoke. Now, imagine that highway getting clogged with sticky, tar-like gunk – that’s creosote. This stuff is a major fire hazard. Creosote buildup is caused by burning unseasoned wood (guilty as charged, sometimes!), which releases moisture that condenses in your chimney. It’s also exacerbated by slow-burning fires with insufficient oxygen.

Why is it so dangerous? Because creosote is highly flammable. A small spark can ignite it, leading to a raging chimney fire that can quickly spread to your home. Not fun!

So, how do you prevent this smoky menace?

First, and I can’t stress this enough, burn only well-seasoned birch. That means letting it dry for at least six to twelve months. Secondly, burn hotter, cleaner fires with adequate airflow. This helps to reduce the amount of unburned particles that can stick to the chimney walls. Finally, and this is non-negotiable, get your chimney inspected and cleaned regularly by a qualified professional. Think of it as a check-up for your home’s respiratory system!

Spark Prevention: Keeping the Embers Where They Belong

Some birch species, especially when not fully seasoned, have a tendency to spark and pop. It’s part of their charm, sure, but those little embers can be sneaky devils. They can jump out of the fireplace and land on your rug, furniture, or even you!

The solution is simple: always use a sturdy fireplace screen. This creates a barrier to contain those errant sparks. For outdoor fires, especially in fire pits, a spark arrestor is your best friend. It’s a mesh screen that fits over the top of the fire pit and prevents embers from escaping into the surrounding area.

Remember, a moment of carelessness isn’t worth a lifetime of regret.

Safe Storage Practices: Keeping the Flames at Bay

How you store your firewood is just as important as how you burn it. Don’t stack it right up against your house! This creates a fire hazard and also provides a cozy home for pests like termites and mice. Yikes!

Instead, store your firewood in a location that’s at least 30 feet away from your home. Choose a spot that’s well-ventilated to promote drying. A simple woodshed or even a neatly stacked pile covered with a tarp will do the trick. Just make sure the tarp doesn’t completely seal the wood, as you need airflow to prevent moisture buildup.

Chimney Inspections: When in Doubt, Call the Pros

Let’s face it, most of us aren’t chimney experts. That’s why regular chimney inspections by a qualified professional are so important. A chimney sweep can identify potential problems like cracks, blockages, and excessive creosote buildup. They can also clean your chimney and ensure that it’s functioning safely and efficiently. Think of them as the firefighters of the fireplace world, always ready to protect you from danger.

The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) is a great resource for finding certified chimney sweeps in your area. Schedule an inspection at least once a year, or more often if you burn wood frequently.

From Tree to Hearth: Tools and Techniques for Processing Birch

Alright, so you’ve got your birch logs, smelling lovely and ready to become toasty warmth. But hold on there, champ! You can’t just toss a whole log into the fireplace (unless you have a seriously big fireplace and a serious disregard for efficiency). Time to break out the tools and get those logs prepped! We’re diving into the world of transforming a birch tree into hearth-ready firewood.

Chainsaws: Your Lumberjack Power Tool

Let’s start with the big guns: the chainsaw. Now, you don’t need to be a professional lumberjack to wield one, but respect is key. For most home firewood needs, a mid-sized chainsaw will do the trick. Think about the size of the logs you’re typically dealing with. You want enough power to slice through without bogging down, but not so much that you’re wrestling a beast you can’t control. Keep that chain sharp as a razor! A dull chain is not only inefficient but also dangerous. Learn how to sharpen it yourself (plenty of tutorials online!) or take it to a pro. And don’t forget lubrication! That chain needs oil to keep things running smoothly and prevent premature wear. Most importantly, safety first! Always wear protective gear: eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and chaps. And for goodness sake, have a solid stance and know your surroundings before you rev that engine. A wobbly stance and a running chainsaw is a recipe for disaster!

Axes and Mauls: The Art of the Split

Next up, the axe and the maul – the original wood-splitting tools. There’s something deeply satisfying about splitting wood by hand, trust me. An axe is great for smaller logs and splitting off pieces, while a maul, with its heavier head, is designed for those tougher, knottier pieces. The key is to aim for existing cracks. Birch, bless its heart, usually splits relatively easily, especially if it’s seasoned. Use a chopping block to protect your back and make the process more efficient. A good technique is everything. Don’t just swing wildly. Aim precisely, using your whole body to generate power. You can’t beat the satisfaction of clean split, first try!

Wood Splitters: Taking the Effort Out

If you’re processing a lot of wood, or if you just want to save your back, a wood splitter might be your new best friend. You’ve got two main types: manual and hydraulic. Manual splitters are cheaper and require no electricity or gas, but they do require some elbow grease. Hydraulic splitters are more expensive but can split even the toughest logs with ease. Consider the volume of wood you’re processing and your physical capabilities when making your decision. Electric splitters are also great for indoors as they do not emit fumes.

Safety Gear: Dress the Part

I cannot stress this enough: safety gear is non-negotiable when processing firewood. Gloves protect your hands from splinters and cuts. Eye protection prevents flying debris from blinding you. Hearing protection saves your ears from the chainsaw’s roar. And chaps protect your legs from accidental chainsaw contact. Think of it as your lumberjack superhero costume. You might not feel like a superhero, but you’ll be a lot safer. The more you gear up, the more enjoyable the process!

Think Green: Environmental Considerations of Burning Birch

Okay, let’s talk about keeping things eco-friendly while enjoying that cozy birch fire. I mean, we all love a warm home, but not at the expense of our planet, right? Let’s dive into how we can burn birch responsibly, ensuring we’re not just warming our toes but also giving Mother Nature a high-five.

Sustainability: Not Chopping Down the Whole Forest!

First things first: sustainability. We’re not talking about clear-cutting a forest just for a winter’s worth of warmth! Responsible harvesting means selective cutting. Think of it like this: you’re thinning out the trees, not giving them all a buzzcut. This allows the remaining trees to thrive, promoting a healthier forest. It’s about taking only what you need and leaving the rest to flourish. Over-harvesting is a big no-no. It disrupts ecosystems, impacts wildlife, and can lead to deforestation. So, source your birch from places that practice sustainable forestry.

Carbon Footprint: Birch vs. Fossil Fuels

Now, let’s get a little sciency – but don’t worry, I’ll keep it light. What about that carbon footprint? Burning wood does release carbon dioxide, but here’s the kicker: trees absorb CO2 as they grow. When you burn wood from sustainably managed forests, it’s considered carbon neutral. The carbon released is roughly equal to the carbon the tree absorbed during its life.

Fossil fuels, on the other hand, release carbon that’s been stored underground for millions of years, adding new carbon to the atmosphere. So, in theory, burning birch is a more eco-friendly option than firing up the gas furnace. But remember, this carbon-neutral status depends on responsible forest management and efficient burning practices!

Reforestation: Planting Trees, Saving the World

Reforestation is where we give back. After harvesting, planting new trees ensures the forest continues to thrive. It’s like replacing what you took, ensuring future generations can also enjoy the warmth of a wood fire. Maintaining forest health is vital for biodiversity, carbon sequestration, and overall ecological balance. So, support companies and initiatives that actively engage in reforestation efforts. Every little bit helps!

Certification Programs: The Seal of Approval

Lastly, keep an eye out for certification programs like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). These programs ensure that the firewood you’re buying comes from forests managed in an environmentally responsible and socially beneficial manner. Look for the FSC label – it’s like a green badge of honor, showing that your firewood purchase supports sustainable forestry practices. By choosing certified firewood, you’re voting with your wallet for a healthier planet.

So, is birch the ultimate firewood? Maybe not. But with its ease of splitting and decent heat output, it’s a solid choice, especially if you’re just starting out or need something reliable for those shoulder seasons. Just remember to let it season properly, and you’ll be golden.