Are there Advantages to Using Cast Iron Cookware?

Should you be using cast iron cookware for your everyday cooking?

If you think you want to get started using cast iron cookware but are on the fence, this article should help to set the record straight.  After all, there are numerous pots and pans out there.  In that case, what could possibly be so special about cast iron cookware?  

You’re about to find out why using cast iron cookware for daily culinary activities is highly recommended.
cast iron cookware pans for cooking

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Cast Iron Cookware - What Exactly is it?

Simply put, it is a durable, heavy-duty cookware made of cast iron.  It gets its recognition for its ability to retain heat and maintain high temperatures for long periods of time.

Conveniently, most cast-iron cookware comes pre-seasoned from the manufacturer to prevent sticking.  In other words, this means you can use the pans right away without having to treat them.

However, the seasoning does weaken and wear out over time and will need to be reapplied.  Importantly, with proper maintenance, cast iron cookware can last a lifetime and is often passed down through generations.

How Long Has Cast Iron Cookware Been Around?

Cast iron cookware has been around thousands of years.  In 1707, a man by the name of Abraham Darby developed an inexpensive method for casting iron into somewhat thin pots and kettles to be used over an open fire.

As kitchen stoves evolved over the years, so did cast iron cookware, which is still popular today.  In fact, it appears it’s going to be around for many more years to come.

Cooking Your Favorite Foods

Cast iron has the ability to employ just about all of the basic cooking methods you would ever need for everyday home cooking.  From a perfectly seared juicy steak cooked on a skillet to a braised beef stew in a Dutch oven, cast iron has a way to handle all your cooking needs.

Best Cast Iron Cookware for Everyday Cooking

Due to its affordability, durability and versatility, using cast iron for cooking is a popular choice for home cooks who want to cook better.  In fact, you can find cast iron cookware for preparing just about any type of food.

The most popular of the cast iron category includes the skillet/frying pan, Dutch oven, and the griddle.   Click on the links below to get a detailed description of each of these cast iron cookware items and how you can utilize them in your everyday cooking.

3 Ways to Cook with Cast Iron Cookware

Skillets
skillet cast iron cookware

Cooking with a cast iron skillet is all about flavor.

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Dutch Oven
Dutch oven selection of cast iron cookware

A cast iron Dutch is a must-have for everyday cooking.

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Griddles
cast iron griddle uses

Don’t underestimate the power of a cast iron griddle.

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Other Cast Iron Cookware Uses

The cast iron family cookware is impressive to say the least.  Here are a few of the other top-rated items that are definitely worth considering.  

BBQ Flat-Top Grill

A cast iron BBQ flat-top grill is essentially that—a flat grill that goes over the top of the barbecue.  They are designed to be used on either gas or charcoal grills.  These grill tops serve a multitude of culinary purposes, particularly if you cook outdoors. Its robust construction allows for even heat distribution.  This is essential for achieving perfectly seared meats, vegetables, and other dishes. 

The flat surface is ideal for preparing a variety of foods.  Serve up pancakes and eggs for breakfast, grilled sandwiches for lunch, burgers or stir-fries for dinner. Additionally, the grill’s ability to retain heat ensures that food cooks evenly and efficiently.  At the same time, the non-stick properties of seasoned cast iron facilitate easy food release and cleanup. Furthermore, the versatility of a flat-top grill allows for both direct and indirect cooking methods, enabling chefs to experiment with different techniques and flavors.  This will definitely enhance your overall outdoor cooking experience to another level.

Cast Iron Maker for Waffles

If you are crazy for waffles, the Lehman’s Cast Iron Waffle Maker puts out some incredible waffles.  This waffle maker differs from typical waffle makers in that instead of plugging it in to an outlet you cook it on your stovetop.

Notably, there is a bit of a learning curve to making these waffles.  If you have never used a cast iron waffle maker before, controlling the temperature can be a little tricky.  You also have to flip the waffle-maker pan over on the burner to cook both sides.

However, with some practice, you can turn out some very tasty old-fashioned waffles.  Also, a nice perk for this waffle maker is it works great on a campfire.

Benefits of Cooking with Cast Iron

Cast iron cookware is the preferred choice because it is versatile, tough, and hearty.  With proper care, this infamous cookware will last a lifetime and beyond.

Here are some of the reasons you might want to start using cast iron cookware for your cooking needs.

  • Cost effective.  With its touted reputation, you may expect a high price tag for cast iron.  Actually, that’s not the case.  When compared to other quality types of cookware, cast iron ranks relatively high for low cost.  You will find high-quality cast iron cookware at a very reasonable price.

  • Consistent heat retention.  Cast iron soaks up the heat and distributes it evenly throughout the cookware.  The consistent heat means no fluctuating temperatures and an even heating area for cooking regardless of the surface.

  • Highly versatile.  Stove-top friendly and completely ovenproof, it can easily go from the burner right into the oven.  It is also highly compatible for outdoor cooking.

  • Natural non-stick surface.  You never have to worry about chemical-based coatings that can seep harmful chemicals into the food you eat.  Cast iron’s natural non-toxic, non-stick surface keeps foods from sticking to the pan even without the use of oils or fats.

  • Oven to table.  No need to transfer food to another dish that you’ll have to wash.  The artful design of the cookware allows you to move from the oven right to the table.  Plus, it keeps food warm for much longer.

  •  Easy to clean.  With the exception of seasoning, cookware is easy to clean.  Simply rinse with mild soapy water and dry.  An occasional seasoning with oil is recommended.

  • Lasts for decades.  With proper care and avoidance of any disastrous falls, your cast iron cookware is durable and hearty enough to benefit many lifetimes.

Disadvantages of Cast Iron for Cooking

While the benefits significantly surpass the downsides of using a cast iron pan, the good always comes with some bad.  Here are some of the disadvantages people have found cooking with cast iron.

Cast iron pans are heavy.  There’s lots to be said for durability, but these pots and pans are definitely not light weight.  In fact, they can be awkward to maneuver if you are moving them around. Something to keep in mind when choosing a size.

Handles are hot.  Pan handles do get very hot especially when coming out of the oven.  It’s imperative to use potholders made specifically for the handles or use an oven mitt to protect yourself from getting burned.

Seasoning is essential. Most pans sold now are pre-seasoned.  However, you still need to give it a bit more punch in order to build up a good base and reach the non-stick level you want.  Due to its porous nature, if not seasoned properly the pans are susceptible to rust and its life will be cut short.

Interaction with acidic foods.  Until you build up a good seasoning base, acidic foods like lemons and tomatoes should be used with caution.  The acid can actually work against the seasoning efforts and find its way into the porous surface of your skillet making it susceptible to rust.  Once you have a good seasoning base, you won’t need to worry so much about using these types of food.

Must be washed by hand. No dishwasher for these babies.  All cast iron cookware must be washed by hand with warm water and a mild soap if needed.  The dishwasher can only harm your cookware by damaging the seasoning and causing rust.

Favorite Friendly Foods

Can Cast Iron Be Used for Cooking Eggs

eggs fried with cast iron cookwareSome people are hesitant to cook eggs on a cast iron skillet for fear of sticking.  That reluctance is justified because eggs do tend to stick to cast iron.  There are theories as to why this is so, such as reacting with the metal, being in contact with the porous surface, and the high heat.  For some reason, the egg proteins are attracted to the uneven surface and like to cling to it. Nevertheless, there are some tricks to cooking different kinds of eggs just the way you like them using cast iron cookware.

Outdoor Cooking with Cast Iron Cookware

When it comes to outdoor cooking using cast iron is the only way. That’s because it’s tough and can withstand hot coals and fire.  Plus, it retains heat so well. So, whether you are camping or just hanging out in the back yard, try some of these popular outdoor cooking ideas that are easy to cook and delicious to eat.

The forever infamous hamburger.  Everyone loves a big juicy home cooked hamburger.  But, cooked on cast iron over a fire just takes it to the next level.

Of course, everyone’s favorite is steak.  Cook up a juicy, flavorful steak in a cast iron skillet over an open fire with a perfect sear…yum!  Add some butter and you’ve gone to heaven.

Do you every so often just get a craving for a succulent tender pork chop?  When grilled, a good bone-in pork chop is almost like eating a steak but without the price tag.

No more blase chicken.  Cooked in a skillet or on the grill, cast iron works magic with chicken. And last but not least, if you are ever lucky enough to get a hold of some fresh-caught salmon… oh yeah, you know where I’m going here.  Drizzled with butter and lemon is like no other.

Those are just a few outdoor meal ideas for cast iron cooking outdoors.  Cast iron is a powerhouse and can withstand just about anything and brings foods to a whole new level.

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