Field Company Cast Iron: Worth The Hype?

The Field Company's cast iron skillets are designed to resemble the best vintage American cast iron skillets. They are meticulously designed to be smoother and lighter than other cast iron skillets, making them a more comfortable everyday pan. The skillets are made from recycled iron and are compatible with all stovetop burner types, including induction stoves. They are also pre-seasoned with three coats of organic grapeseed oil, making them ready to use straight out of the box.

The skillets have received positive reviews, with an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars. Customers have praised the skillets for their ease of use, heirloom quality, and lightweight, smooth build. Some reviews have also noted that the skillets are non-stick and capable of producing perfectly seared food.

However, one review noted that the skillets may not be completely non-stick right out of the box and that the non-stick properties enhance with use and additional seasoning. Another review mentioned that the skillets do not have pour spouts, which some may consider a downside, but the company states that traditional pour spouts do not work well and that the curved lip of their skillets prevents dripping.

Is the Field Company cast iron skillet worth the money?

The Field Company's cast iron skillet has received praise from several sources for its lightweight design, smooth surface, and natural non-stick properties. The skillet is designed to be reminiscent of vintage American cast iron, with a smooth, polished finish that sets it apart from the rougher texture of most modern cast iron pans. This smooth surface not only makes the pan easier to clean but also provides a more forgiving cooking surface, as food is less likely to stick.

The Field skillet also stands out for its lighter weight, which makes it easier to handle than many other cast iron pans. The company spent years studying vintage skillets to find the perfect balance between lightness and thickness, ensuring the pan is still suitable for high-heat searing and even cooking. This weight makes the skillet more comfortable to use, especially for those with wrist strength or mobility issues.

In terms of performance, the Field skillet excels at heat retention, a key feature of cast iron cookware. Its ability to maintain high temperatures even when cold ingredients are added makes it ideal for searing steak or other meats. The skillet can also be used for baking, with its uninterrupted round shape making it well-suited for pies and cakes.

The Field skillet arrives pre-seasoned with three coats of organic grapeseed oil, and its non-stick properties improve with use. The company recommends using the skillet often to build up the seasoning over time, enhancing its natural non-stick surface.

While the Field Company skillet offers many advantages, it is significantly more expensive than some other cast iron options, such as the popular Lodge skillet. The higher price tag reflects the more intricate manufacturing process, including the use of thinner walls and the time-consuming polishing process.

Overall, the Field Company cast iron skillet is a premium option for those seeking a lightweight, smooth, and naturally non-stick skillet. Its durable construction, versatile performance, and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment for those looking to add a quality piece of cookware to their kitchen.

How does the Field Company cast iron skillet compare to other skillets?

The Field Company's No. 8 Cast Iron Skillet is a lightweight, smooth, and durable cast-iron skillet. It is designed to resemble vintage cast-iron skillets, with a polished surface that is easier to season and achieves a natural non-stick surface without harmful chemicals. The skillet has a smaller helper handle, making it easier to move between the stove and the oven. It is made from recycled American iron and cast with thinner walls, which makes it lighter than other cast-iron skillets.

When compared to other skillets, the Field Company's No. 8 Cast Iron Skillet stands out for its weight and smoothness. At 4.3 to 4.5 pounds, it is one of the lightest 10-inch skillets on the market. The machining process used to create the skillet's smooth surface also makes it easier to season and results in a more non-stick finish. The thinner sidewalls and overall lighter weight of the skillet make it more comfortable to use every day.

The Field Company skillet also differs from other skillets in its design. It does not have pour spouts, which are commonly found on newer skillets. Instead, the sidewalls flare outward slightly, similar to a spoutless pitcher, which helps to minimize dripping. The absence of pour spouts also maintains uniform wall thickness, keeping the weight down without sacrificing strength.

In terms of performance, the Field Company skillet delivers even heat distribution and excellent heat retention. It heats up faster and cools down faster than conventional cast-iron pans, making it more energy-efficient. The smooth surface also makes it more forgiving if the seasoning is accidentally stripped or if not enough oil is used.

Overall, the Field Company's No. 8 Cast Iron Skillet is a premium cast-iron skillet that offers a lightweight, smooth, and durable design. It is easier to season and maintain compared to other skillets, and its performance is on par with or better than more expensive options. The skillet's combination of weight, smoothness, and heat distribution makes it a top choice for those seeking a high-quality, user-friendly cast-iron skillet.

What can you cook in a cast iron skillet?

A cast-iron skillet is a versatile kitchen tool that can be used to cook a wide variety of dishes, from savoury to sweet. Here are some ideas for what you can cook in a cast-iron skillet:

Breakfast

A cast-iron skillet is perfect for a hearty breakfast. You can fry up some bacon and eggs, or get creative with a cornbread donut brunch burger or mini goat cheese frittatas. If you're feeling extra hungry, try a bacon tomato bread pudding or triple spice cinnamon rolls with brown butter cream cheese frosting.

Lunch and Dinner

When it comes to lunch and dinner, a cast-iron skillet is a great option for one-pan meals. Try a chicken tortilla soup, fish and chips, or a grilled steak. If you're in the mood for something more substantial, a cast-iron skillet is perfect for searing steaks, charring vegetables, or making a hearty stew. You can also use it to make a classic hot wings, a Sunday pot roast, or a citrus shrimp taco.

Dessert

Don't put away your cast-iron skillet just yet – it's also great for desserts! You can bake a chocolate chip skillet cookie, a hummingbird skillet cake, or a pumpkin skillet coffee cake with a streusel topping. If you're craving something fruity, try a skillet peach cake or a fruit cocktail upside-down cake. For a classic dessert, a cast-iron skillet is perfect for making an apple tarte Tatin or pineapple upside-down cake.

Baking

In addition to cooking meals and desserts, a cast-iron skillet can also be used for baking. You can bake a simple skillet cornbread, campfire buttermilk biscuits, or even a pizza. If you're feeling adventurous, try making a pineapple upside-down cake or a gingerbread cinnamon roll.

Drinks

Yes, you can even use your cast-iron skillet to make drinks! It's perfect for heating up apple cider or mulled wine, giving your drinks a unique smoky flavour.

So, there you have it! A cast-iron skillet is a versatile kitchen tool that can be used for a variety of dishes. With its ability to retain heat and develop a natural non-stick surface, it's a great investment for any home cook.

How do you care for a cast iron skillet?

Cast iron skillets are a great addition to your kitchen, and with the right care, they can last for decades and even be passed down through the generations. Here is a detailed guide on how to care for your cast iron skillet.

Cleaning

Cast iron skillets should be hand-washed only. Do not put them in the dishwasher. Use a small amount of gentle dish soap and hot water, and a soft sponge or brush to wash your skillet. For stuck-on food, use a pan scraper or a nylon scrubbing brush. You can also simmer a little water for 3-5 minutes to help loosen the food, and then scrape once the pan has cooled. Dry the skillet thoroughly and promptly with a lint-free cloth or paper towel.

Drying

After drying, place the skillet on the stovetop and warm it up to evaporate any remaining moisture. Do not drip-dry or store the skillet when it is still wet.

Oiling

Rub a very light layer of cooking oil or seasoning spray onto the surface of the skillet. Use a paper towel to wipe the surface until no oil residue remains.

Pre-heating

Before cooking, pre-heat your skillet on low heat for up to 5 minutes.

Cooking

The more you cook with your cast iron skillet, the better. The skillet will develop a natural non-stick coating when properly maintained. You can cook a variety of dishes in your cast iron skillet, including frying eggs, sautéing vegetables, searing meats, baking cornbread, braising chicken, and more.

Seasoning

Seasoning your cast iron skillet is important to create a rust-resistant and non-stick surface. "Seasoning" refers to the process of baking multiple layers of oil into the skillet. Many new skillets come pre-seasoned, but if you bought a used skillet or want to improve the non-stick properties, you can re-season it. To season, clean the skillet, warm it up in the oven, and then wipe the entire surface with a thin layer of cooking oil. Put the skillet back in the oven for 10 minutes, and then remove any excess oil with a clean, dry cloth. Finally, put the skillet back in the oven at a higher temperature for an hour.

Maintenance Tips

• Do not soak your cast iron skillet in water as it can lead to rust.
• Avoid using steel wool or metal scrubbers as they can damage the seasoning. Instead, use a pan scraper or a chainmail scrubber.
• Do not store food in the cast iron skillet.
• Always ensure the skillet is completely dry before storing, as rust is the enemy of your seasoning. You can use a paper towel inside the skillet to wick away any moisture during storage.
• Use gentle utensils like wood, silicone, and rubber to avoid damaging the skillet, especially while building up the seasoning.
• If your skillet develops rust, you can remove it by scouring with warm, soapy water and steel wool. Then, dry the skillet and rub with vegetable oil.

What size cast iron skillet should you buy?

When deciding what size cast-iron skillet to buy, it's important to consider how many people you typically cook for and what types of dishes you plan to make. Here are some recommendations based on different scenarios:

For an Individual

An 8-inch skillet is ideal for cooking for yourself. You can prepare single servings of most foods, such as stir-fry, roasted vegetables, or a skillet cookie. If you want leftovers more often, you might want to consider a slightly larger size.

For a Couple or Two People

A 10-inch skillet is perfect for cooking for two people. It can accommodate a large steak, a few chicken breasts, a deep-dish pizza, or two servings of stir-fry. This size is also suitable for baking pies or bread. Keep in mind that a 10-inch skillet is a bit heavier than an 8-inch one, but with practice, you'll be able to toss your food with ease.

For a Family of Four

A 12-inch skillet is the most versatile option for a family of four. It can cook up to four servings of most foods, so you won't have to cook in multiple batches. If you always want leftovers, a 12-inch skillet is a good choice even for a couple. Just remember that with a larger skillet, you might experience some unevenness in heating, so be sure to preheat it before use and cook with your largest burner.

For Larger Gatherings or Parties

For social gatherings or parties with six or more people, a 15-inch skillet can be a good option. However, keep in mind that skillets this size are heavy and not very practical for everyday use. They might not fit comfortably on a standard stovetop, and you may need to preheat them longer to ensure even cooking. As an alternative, you could consider using two 10-inch or 12-inch skillets, which will be easier to manoeuvre and store.

In summary, here are the recommended skillet sizes based on the number of people you're cooking for:

• 8-inch skillet for one person
• 10-inch skillet for two people
• 12-inch skillet for a family of four
• 15-inch skillet for larger gatherings

When choosing a cast-iron skillet, it's also worth considering the weight and versatility of the pan. Smaller skillets are lighter and easier to handle, but they may not be suitable for larger dishes or multiple servings. On the other hand, larger skillets can be heavier and more challenging to toss or turn food, especially if you're cooking stir-fry or similar dishes. Ultimately, the best size cast-iron skillet for you will depend on your specific needs and cooking habits.

Frequently asked questions