The Ultimate Guide To Finding The Perfect Iron Cookware Set Supplier

Cast iron cookware is a versatile and durable option for any kitchen. It offers even heat distribution and retention, making it ideal for cooking a variety of dishes, from grilled steaks to braised meats and stir-fried vegetables. Cast iron is also chemical-free and naturally non-stick when seasoned, providing a glossy texture that prevents food from sticking. It is compatible with all heat sources, including induction cooktops, ovens, grills, and even campfires.

There are two main types of cast iron cookware: seasoned and enamelled. Seasoned cast iron has a layer of oil baked onto it, giving it a black patina finish and preventing corrosion. Enamelled cast iron has an enamel glaze applied over it, removing the need for seasoning and protecting the cookware from rust.

When choosing cast iron cookware, consider the finish, type, weight, size, and style that best suit your cooking needs and preferences. Cast iron cookware sets typically include skillets, pans, pots, dutch ovens, grill presses, and utensils like spatulas and scrapers.

Some popular brands offering cast iron cookware sets include Lodge, Le Creuset, Field Company, Our Place, and Utopia Kitchen, each with its unique features and designs.

Cast iron cookware sets

Cast iron cookware is a great addition to your kitchen. It is durable, offers even heat distribution, and can be used on various heat sources, including induction cooktops. Cast iron is known for its longevity, and with proper care, these cookware sets can be passed down through generations.

Field Company

Field Company offers a wide range of cast iron cookware sets to suit different needs. Their sets include the Starter Set, Chef's Starter Set, Lightweight Cast Iron Camping Set, Kitchen Upgrade Set, Two-Piece Set, Five-Piece Set, and various skillet and lid sets. The company also provides resources on cast iron care, seasoning, and cleaning.

Our Place

Our Place offers a 4-piece cast iron cookware set that includes a multifunctional Always Pan, Perfect Pot, Hot Grill, Grill Press, and bonus Hot Grips. The set is compatible with all cooktops, including induction, and can withstand temperatures up to 500°F. The pieces are made of enameled cast iron, which provides superior browning without the need for seasoning.

Lodge Cast Iron

Lodge Cast Iron offers a range of cast iron cookware sets, including bakeware and outdoor cooking accessories. Their pieces are made in America and are naturally seasoned, ready for use. Lodge Cast Iron sets are perfect for cooking over an open fire, grilling, or everyday use. They also offer holiday-themed sets and accessories to add a playful touch to your kitchen.

Carolina Cooker

Carolina Cooker provides a range of cast iron cookware, including Dutch ovens, skillets, griddles, and camp cookware sets. Their pieces are preseasoned and designed to last, serving you and your family for years to come.

Food Network

Food Network offers a range of cast iron skillets, including the Victoria 10-Inch Cast Iron Skillet, Lodge Pre-Seasoned 10-Inch Cast Iron Skillet, Ozark 3-Piece Cast Iron Skillet Set, Le Creuset 10-Inch Cast Iron Skillet, and the Food Network Kohl's 10-Inch Cast Iron Skillet. These skillets offer various features, such as compatibility with different heat sources, easy maintenance, and modern designs.

Caring for cast iron

Cast iron cookware is virtually indestructible and can last long enough for your grandchildren to inherit. However, it does require some special care. Here is a detailed and direct guide on how to care for your cast iron cookware.

Washing

Cast iron cookware should be washed by hand. While it is not necessary to wash your cast iron with soap, it is perfectly fine to do so. The caution not to use soap originated from the fact that soap used to contain lye, which would degrade the seasoning. Modern soap does not contain lye and will not affect the seasoning. However, large amounts of soap can strip the seasoning, so it is best to use only a small amount. If there is stuck-on food, fill the pan with a small amount of water and simmer for 3-5 minutes, then use a nylon scrubbing brush, a pan scraper, or a chainmail scrubber to remove the food once the pan has cooled. Be sure to thoroughly dry your pan after washing to prevent rust.

Seasoning

The "season" on a cast iron skillet is what makes it non-stick. Seasoning is the process of baking multiple layers of oil into the skillet, creating a rust-resistant and non-stick surface. To season your cast iron, follow these steps:

• Wash the cast iron in hot soapy water, scrubbing vigorously.
• Dry it completely (inside and out).
• Wipe it with a very small amount of vegetable oil (inside and out), making sure to wipe out all of the oil so that the pan appears to not have been oiled.
• Place the cast iron in an oven at 450-500 degrees F for 30 minutes.
• Repeat the process of oiling, wiping, and baking 3-4 times.

Daily Upkeep

After cooking, clean your cast iron while it is still warm. Rinse with warm water and use a brush or scraper to remove stuck-on bits. If you used enough fat for cooking, you may only need to rinse with warm water and gently scrub. Dry the pan and coat with a thin layer of oil. Dry the cast iron with a clean towel, then place over low heat. Add a thin coat of oil, making sure the oil doesn't pool. Store the pan until ready to use.

Troubleshooting

If you have really stuck-on food, fill the pan with water and boil it for 10 minutes to loosen the food. For very stubborn bits, scrub the pan with a paste of coarse kosher salt and water. If you accidentally leave your pan in water and it develops rust, scour the rust with warm, soapy water and steel wool. Rinse and dry the pan, then rub with a little vegetable oil.

Types of cast iron cookware

Cast iron cookware is highly valued for its heat retention, durability, and ability to maintain high temperatures for extended periods. Cast iron skillets and frying pans are the most widely used type of cast iron cookware, but there are many other varieties to suit different needs. Here are some of the most common types of cast iron cookware:

• Skillets: Skillets are one of the most versatile and common types of cast iron cookware. They can be used for a wide range of tasks, from frying chicken to baking cornbread or cakes.
• Dutch ovens: Dutch ovens are heavy cooking pots with tight-fitting domed lids, usually made of cast iron. They are perfect for braising meats, simmering stews, and deep-frying. Dutch ovens can be used on the stovetop or in the oven and are safe to use with all types of cooktops, including induction.
• Griddles: Cast iron griddles offer a flat cooking surface with slightly raised edges, making them ideal for cooking breakfast foods like eggs, sausage, and pancakes. They can also be used for grilled cheese sandwiches and pizzas.
• Grill pans: Grill pans have ribs that allow grease and fat to drain away from the food while leaving distinct sear marks. They are perfect for grilling meats, vegetables, and paninis.
• Woks: Cast iron woks have a sloped design and dual handles, making them versatile and easy to manoeuvre. They are excellent for stir-frying, one-pan meals, and roasting meats.
• Bakeware: Cast iron bakeware includes items such as muffin pans, loaf pans, and cake pans. They are known for creating a perfect crispy crust and flaky textures in baked goods.
• Enameled cast iron: Enameled cast iron has a vitreous enamel glaze applied to its surface, eliminating the need for seasoning. While enameled cast iron doesn't require seasoning and is easier to clean, it loses some of the natural properties of traditional cast iron.

Benefits of cast iron pans

There are many benefits to using cast iron pans. Here are some of the most notable advantages:

Durability and Longevity

Cast iron pans are known for their durability and longevity. They are virtually indestructible and can last for generations with proper care. Cast iron is a solid and heavy material, making it resistant to warping and able to withstand heavy use.

Heat Retention and Even Heating

Cast iron has excellent heat retention properties. Once heated, it retains heat effectively, making it ideal for high-heat cooking techniques like searing steaks. The high heat retention also contributes to better browning and flavour development, resulting in more delicious food. Additionally, cast iron pans heat up evenly, eliminating hot or cold spots and ensuring your food cooks evenly.

Non-Stick Properties

Cast iron pans can develop a natural, slick patina over time with proper seasoning and use. This patina creates a non-stick surface, allowing food to release easily and making cleanup a breeze. A well-seasoned cast iron skillet can become just as non-stick as aluminium or stainless steel pans and will often outlast them.

Versatility

Cast iron pans offer incredible versatility in the kitchen. They can be used on various heat sources, including stovetops, ovens, open fires, grills, and barbecues. This makes them perfect for both indoor and outdoor cooking, such as camping trips or power outages. Cast iron is also versatile in terms of the types of dishes you can prepare, from steaks and fried foods to casseroles, breads, and baked goods.

Health Benefits

Cooking with cast iron can have health benefits due to its natural non-stick properties. Unlike modern non-stick pans that may release harmful chemicals like Teflon, cast iron is a safer option. Additionally, cast iron adds a small amount of iron to your food, which is an essential mineral for transporting oxygen and maintaining healthy cells in the body.

Affordability

Cast iron cookware is known for its affordability. Despite its weight and solid construction, cast iron pans are typically priced lower than other types of modern cookware made from different materials. You can often find great deals on cast iron cookware at thrift stores and garage sales, making it an economical choice for those starting or expanding their cookware collection.

Best cast iron cookware brands

Cast iron cookware is a great way to get a crispy sear on your food, and can be used for stovetop and oven cooking. It is a blend of iron and carbon steel, which gives the pan sturdiness, durability, and exceptional heat retention.

Lodge

Topping the list is Lodge, a sturdy brand that has been in the business since 1896. Their products are easily found on Amazon, and they offer a range of options, from a bestselling 10-1/4-inch pre-seasoned skillet to a seven-piece set that includes pans and hot grips. Lodge is known for its affordable, quality cast iron skillets that stand the test of time. Their skillets provide even browning, and the included silicone handle makes it easy to turn out food. They also have excellent heat distribution and searing capabilities.

Le Creuset

Le Creuset is a brand known for its high-end enameled cast-iron cookware. Their selection includes Dutch ovens and cast-iron pots and pans that come in stunning colours and sleek designs. Le Creuset's enameled cast iron is easy to clean and never requires seasoning. Their skillets heat consistently and evenly, making them a great choice for even cooking.

Field Company

Field Company is a lightweight cast-iron brand recommended by Iron Chef Cat Cora. Their skillets are easy to manoeuvre and come in various styles, such as skillets, grills, and Dutch ovens. The company uses recycled iron in its manufacturing process, and their skillets have a more matte finish compared to other vintage-style brands.

Utopia Kitchen

Utopia Kitchen, recommended by Iron Chef Cat Cora, offers a set of three pre-seasoned cast-iron pans for an affordable price. Their skillets are also available individually, and they are a great budget-friendly option for those looking to get started with cast iron cookware.

Lancaster

Lancaster Cast Iron is a small company producing beautiful cast-iron pans in southeastern Pennsylvania. Their skillets are lighter in weight and heat up faster than conventional cast iron. They have a smooth cooking surface, making them more forgiving if you accidentally strip the seasoning. The Lancaster skillets also have ample pour spouts and are easy to manoeuvre, even without a helper handle.

Other notable mentions include Smithey, Victoria, Stargazer, Valor, and Butter Pat Industries.

Frequently asked questions