The Surprising Science Of Trivets: Why Your Cast Iron Pan Needs One

Cast iron pans are incredibly versatile and durable, but they do require some special care when it comes to heating and cooling. While cast iron can withstand high temperatures of up to 650˚ F, it's important to gradually pre-heat the pan to prevent hot spots and ensure even heating. This is especially important on electric and induction cooktops, which can be less responsive to temperature adjustments. Cast iron holds heat extremely well, so it's not necessary to use a heat setting above medium. When cooking with cast iron, always use a hot handle mitt to protect your hands from the high temperatures.

On a glass-top stove

Cast iron pans can be used on a glass-top stove, but there are several precautions to take to avoid damaging the stove. Cast iron is heavy, so always place it gently on the stove and lift it up rather than sliding it when you need to move it. Make sure the bottom of the pan is clean and dry before placing it on the stove, as food debris can lead to burnt-on messes and stains on the glass. Cast iron pans can take longer to heat up and cool down, so factor in slightly longer cooking times. When you've finished cooking, remove the pan from the stove promptly and place it on a cooling rack or trivet to avoid scorch marks.

To avoid scratches on a glass-top stove, always wipe up any large pieces of food or debris with a soft cloth or paper towel. Avoid dragging anything rough, sharp, or jagged across the surface. If there is burnt-on or dried-on food on the bottom of the pan, this can scratch the glass over time. Similarly, if there are any cracks or chips on the underside of the pan, it's best to avoid using it on a glass stove. To avoid stains, clean up spills immediately and make sure the bottom of the pan is thoroughly cleaned before use.

On an induction cooktop

Cast iron pans can be used on induction cooktops, as they are made of ferrous metal, which is magnetic and can be heated by electromagnetic fields. Induction cooktops work by generating an electromagnetic field that transfers energy directly to the pan, heating its contents.

When using cast iron pans on induction cooktops, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it is important to preheat your cookware slowly with oil to avoid thermal shock, which can cause the cookware to break. Secondly, choose a piece of cookware that is similar in size to the burner to ensure even heating. While full contact between the cookware and the burner is not necessary, it is important to ensure that the cookware is not too small compared to the burner, as this may cause the induction cooktop to not heat up properly.

Another consideration when using cast iron on induction cooktops is the potential for scratching the glass surface. Cast iron pans often have rough bottoms, which can cause scratches. To avoid this, gently place the pan on the cooktop and avoid sliding or dragging it across the surface. You can also use a scratch protector mat or place a piece of heat-resistant paper, such as parchment paper, between the pan and the cooktop. Additionally, keeping both the cooktop and the pan clean can help prevent scratches.

By following these guidelines, you can safely use cast iron pans on induction cooktops and take advantage of the benefits of this type of cookware and cooking surface.

On a gas cooktop

Cast iron pans can be used on gas stovetops, but there are some things to keep in mind to ensure the best results and avoid damaging your cookware.

Firstly, cast iron pans perform best when they are gradually heated. Starting with a high temperature can lead to uneven heating, causing cold spots that can affect the reliability of your cooking. It can also cause warping or cracking of the pan over time. Therefore, it is recommended to preheat your cast iron pan on a low or medium setting before cooking. Cast iron has excellent heat retention, so once the pan is heated, you can often reduce the burner heat to low.

Secondly, it is important to match the size of your cookware to the size of the burner. Using a larger pan on a smaller burner can create hot spots, resulting in uneven heating. This uneven heat can also cause warping or cracking of your cookware.

Thirdly, when using a cast iron pan on a gas stovetop, avoid sliding it back and forth while cooking. Instead, place it firmly on the stovetop in one smooth motion. Sliding the pan can damage the glass surface of the stovetop, especially if the bottom of the pan is not completely flat.

Additionally, it is recommended to keep your cast iron cookware and gas stovetop clean. Regularly wash your cast iron pan with hot water and a silicone scrubber to remove any oil or residue that could stain the stovetop. Similarly, wipe down the stovetop before and after each use to prevent residue build-up, which can lead to scratching if combined with the use of cast iron cookware.

By following these tips, you can safely and effectively use cast iron pans on a gas stovetop, taking advantage of the responsiveness and visual cues provided by gas burners to dial in the perfect temperature for your cast iron cookware.

On a grill

Cast-iron pans are a great tool for grilling. They can be used on both indoor and outdoor grills and are a good alternative to cooking directly on the grill grates.

Firstly, preheat your cast-iron pan on the grill for around 5-10 minutes. This is an important step as it ensures your food cooks evenly. Once preheated, you can use your cast-iron pan to sauté, simmer, boil, deglaze, and fry foods. You can cook a wide variety of foods in a cast-iron pan on a grill, including steaks, poultry, stir-fries, delicate seafood, saucy side dishes, and even baked goods like cornbread.

When grilling with cast iron, you can avoid the risk of smaller foods falling through the grill grates. This makes it ideal for cooking smaller vegetables, such as green beans, asparagus, and cherry tomatoes, as well as seafood like shrimp and scallops. Cast-iron pans are also a good option for cooking sticky foods, such as flatbreads, as they are less likely to stick to the pan than the grill grates.

In addition to the above, cast-iron pans can be used to create a nice sear on steaks. While you won't get authentic grill marks, it won't impact the taste. Cast-iron pans are also useful for managing multiple dishes at once, as you can cook multiple things on the grill at the same time, rather than having to go back and forth between the grill and the kitchen.

When using a cast-iron pan on a grill, it's important to note that the middle of the grill will provide the most intense heat. So, when searing or cooking meats, place the cast-iron pan in the middle of the grill. Also, remember to use a hot pad when handling the pan, as it will get very hot, and be careful not to exceed the smoke point of your seasoning to avoid a bitter taste. Finally, let the cast-iron pan cool completely on the grill before rinsing it to avoid warping or cracking.

On a campfire

Cooking with cast iron on a campfire is a great way to prepare food outdoors. Cast iron is durable, versatile, and easy to use, making it ideal for camping trips. Here are some tips for using cast iron pans on a campfire:

Preparing Your Cast Iron Pan:

Before using your cast iron pan on a campfire, it's important to ensure it's properly seasoned. Seasoning creates a non-stick barrier that prevents rusting and makes cleaning easier. Here's how to season your cast iron pan:

• Scrub the pan: Use steel wool, hot water, and mild dish soap to scrub the entire pan, including the handle, bottom, and sides. This step is crucial if it's your first time seasoning the pan or if you're removing rust and residue.
• Dry the pan: Towel-dry the pan and then place it in an oven or on a stovetop to ensure it's completely dry. This step is essential to prevent rusting.
• Add a thin layer of oil: Spread a thin layer of oil, such as flaxseed oil, avocado oil, or canola oil, on the pan using a paper towel or dish towel. Wipe off any excess oil, as leaving too much can make your pan sticky.
• Heat the pan in the oven: Place the oiled pan upside down in an oven at the highest temperature (between 450°F and 500°F) for about an hour. This process allows the oil to bond with the cast iron, creating a non-stick surface.

Cooking with Cast Iron on a Campfire:

When cooking with cast iron on a campfire, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Start the fire early: It takes time for the wood to turn into glowing coals, which provide a more stable heat source for cooking.
• Preheat your cast iron pan: Place the pan on the campfire and preheat it for about 10 minutes. Cast iron takes longer to heat up, and preheating ensures a more evenly heated surface.
• Control the temperature: Cast iron doesn't heat evenly, so you'll need to move the pan around occasionally to heat it more uniformly.
• Avoid direct flames: Place the pan on hot coals instead of directly in the flames, as this provides more even cooking.
• Use a cooking grate or tripod: Consider using a cooking grate or tripod to elevate the pan over the fire, providing better control over the cooking temperature.
• Be patient: Cast iron takes longer to heat up and cool down, so adjust your cooking techniques accordingly.

Cleaning and Maintenance:

To maintain your cast iron pan and ensure its longevity, follow these cleaning and maintenance tips:

• Remove leftover food: Use a spoon or spatula to scrape out large pieces of food, and then wipe out any liquids or grease with paper towels.
• Wash the pan: Use hot water and a nylon scrubbing brush, plastic scraper, sponge, or chain mail scrubber to wash away any remaining food residue. Mild soap can be used if desired.
• Dry the pan thoroughly: Use a towel or paper towels to dry the pan completely, and then heat it on a campfire or camp stove for a few minutes to ensure it's entirely dry.
• Apply a protective layer of oil: Once the pan is dry, spread a thin layer of cooking oil on the inside to protect it from moisture and rust.
• Store the pan properly: Use a protective carrying bag, wrap the pan in clean towels, or place it in a brown paper bag with layers of paper towels to prevent scratching and rusting during storage.

Frequently asked questions