The Care And Keeping Of Cast Iron Pans

Cast iron pans are a popular kitchen tool, known for their durability, versatility, and ability to retain heat. They are affordable, with some of the most popular options costing between $20 and $60. Cast iron skillets are ideal for cooking meat, baking, and deep frying. They can be used on stovetops, in ovens, and even over campfires, making them a versatile option for various cooking methods.

Despite their popularity, there are many misconceptions about cast iron pans. For example, contrary to popular belief, cast iron pans are not difficult to maintain and can be washed with soap and water. While they are slow to heat up, they retain heat well and distribute it evenly, making them ideal for searing meat.

Cast iron pans also have a natural non-stick coating when they are seasoned. Seasoning involves coating the pan with oil and baking it in the oven, which creates a stick-resistant surface and helps prevent rusting.

Cast iron pans are versatile and durable

Cast iron pans are incredibly versatile and durable. They can be used over a campfire flame, on your stovetop (on gas, electric, glass, and induction burners), in the oven, or even on the grill. They can be used for cooking meats, baking, deep frying, stir-frying, and more. Their ability to withstand high heat makes them ideal for foods that need high heat, such as searing steaks or browning roasts before braising. They are also excellent for achieving a crunchy, golden crust on roasted vegetables.

Cast iron pans are also very durable. They are slow to heat up but retain heat well and distribute it evenly throughout the pan, resulting in a more even cook than an aluminium pan. They are built to last and are very difficult to completely ruin. In fact, it is not uncommon for cast iron pans to be passed down through generations. With proper care, a cast iron pan can last a lifetime or longer.

They are naturally non-stick

Cast iron pans are naturally non-stick, but only when they are properly seasoned. Seasoning is a thin layer of polymerized oil that bonds to the surface of the metal, giving well-seasoned cast iron its non-stick properties. This means that the more you use your cast iron pan, the better the seasoning becomes, and the more non-stick it will be.

However, it is important to note that cast iron pans are not as non-stick as Teflon. For example, you won't be able to dump a load of cold eggs into your cast iron pan, slowly heat them up with no oil, and then slide the cooked eggs out without a spot left behind. But, as long as your cast iron pan is well-seasoned and you pre-heat it well before adding any food, you should have no problems with sticking.

Most new cast iron pans come pre-seasoned, so they are ready to use straight away. However, the seasoning will wear away if it is not maintained, exposing the rough metal beneath and causing sticking. Therefore, it is important to regularly season your cast iron pan to maintain its non-stick properties.

They are easy to clean and season

Contrary to popular belief, cast iron pans are easy to clean and season. While they can't go in the dishwasher, they can be washed by hand with a small amount of mild dish soap and hot water. It's important to dry the pan thoroughly after washing to prevent rust, and then to rub it with a very thin layer of cooking oil or seasoning spray.

To season a cast iron pan, heat it on the stove until it's very hot, then rub it with a little canola, vegetable, or flaxseed oil and a paper towel. Wipe away any excess oil with a clean paper towel, then let the pan cool. Repeat this process several times to build up multiple layers of seasoning.

They are affordable and long-lasting

Cast iron pans are an affordable kitchen essential that can last for generations. They are incredibly durable and, with proper care, can be passed down from generation to generation, with some skillets even being bequeathed in wills.

Cast iron skillets are versatile and can be used over a campfire flame, on stovetops, in the oven, or on a grill. They are ideal for cooking meats and baking, and because they can withstand high heat, you can also deep fry with them.

They are also a great investment. While premium cast iron skillets can cost up to $195, skillets from popular brands like Lodge are much more affordable, with their standard 10.25-inch skillet costing around $26.75. You can even find them at garage sales and thrift stores.

Cast iron skillets are slow to heat but retain heat well and distribute it evenly throughout the pan, giving you a more even cook than an aluminium pan. They are also naturally non-stick, and the more you use them, the better the non-stick coating becomes.

With their durability, versatility, and affordability, cast iron pans are a worthwhile addition to any kitchen.

They are ideal for cooking meats and baking

Cast iron pans are ideal for cooking meats and baking. Their ability to heat up quickly and maintain high temperatures makes them perfect for searing steaks and roasts. The high heat creates a deep brown colour and crust on the surface of the meat without burning it. Cast iron pans are also excellent for stir-fries as they can retain heat similar to a wok, ensuring that your meat and vegetables are cooked to perfection.

When it comes to baking, cast iron pans are great for achieving that perfect crunchy, golden crust on your cornbread or pizza. The even heat distribution of cast iron pans ensures that your baked goods cook evenly, resulting in a consistent colour and texture. Cast iron pans are also perfect for roasting vegetables, giving them a crunchy exterior crust while keeping the inside tender.

The versatility of cast iron pans doesn't stop there. They can also be used for frying, whether it's deep-frying chicken or making a batch of crispy, golden french fries. The high heat retention of cast iron ensures that your food cooks evenly and efficiently.

In addition to their exceptional cooking performance, cast iron pans are also highly durable and can last for generations. They are made of an ultra-durable alloy of steel and carbon, making them resistant to nicks, dents, and scratches. So, whether you're searing, baking, or frying, a cast iron pan is an excellent investment for your kitchen.

Frequently asked questions