July 22, 2023, President's Challenge: Dutch Oven Service Tray by Larry Sefton

For over 30 years I have cooked with cast iron dutch ovens. When placing the hot oven on a table for serving, I have used a commercial white plastic cutting board. This challenge made me think. I am a woodturner - why not a wood serving tray that I made on my own lathe?

For size reference the tiles on the table are 12"x12" and the dutch oven is the 10" size.

This service tray was finished with Milk Paint brand Cutting Board Oil. In my view the two best cutting board oils are John Boos MYSB Mystery Butcher Block Oil (or cream) or Milk Paint's Cutting Board Oil.

Something I did not foresee was the discoloration that is seen in the photo below after the first use. Can you guess the cause?

The discoloration was from moisture and the warm/hot lid affecting the oil and the wood.

To me this is a positive effect (badge of courage).