Cast Iron Pans Cast iron pan owners swear by them for their even dispersal of heat and non stick nature. However, iron is not as happy go lucky as other metals. Initially, the pan must be seasoned with vegetable oil in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for at least an hour. Each time you heat the pan with oil, it will season till it obtains a beautiful dark color. Don't wash off the black patina thinking it is dirty. In fact, never use soap or scour the pan or you will remove the essence of the pan. Dry your iron pan on the stove with medium heat but watch it so it doesn't burn.
Not to be mistaken with it's older brother Velvet Merkin (with a "k"), Velvet Merlin is just an oatmeal stout. Yes, Firestone sells the same beer aged and unaged. But I shouldn't say it is just an oatmeal stout. It's one of the best stouts I've ever had the pleasure of consuming. While it doesn't have the alcohol content of other stouts, it still packs a punch of flavor with coffee and chocolate notes equal to other stouts brewed longer with a higher alcohol content. The shorter brewing time also makes it more drinkable as some stouts tend to be overpowering and bitter. I highly recommend drinking this beer in six packs when it is available during the Fall and Winter.
