Why You Should Use Cast Iron

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In this post, I will share Why you should use cast iron and why it will be your workhorse in the kitchen.

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Cast iron cookware is incredibly versatile and is a workhorse in my kitchen and can be used for a wide variety of cooking methods, from stovetop to oven, and even over a campfire. In addition, there are so many reasons Why you should use cast iron, and the good news is I will share how to maintain your cast iron skillet for generations to come.

My all-time favorite thing to use in the kitchen is cast iron.

Growing up, my family has always cooked on cast iron, and I inherited several cast iron skillets that belong to my mother & grandmother, and we use them every day.

Even though I have added new cast iron pans to my collection, we ensure that we give them proper care, so they continue to have that non-stick coating.

Why You Should Use Cast Iron

1. Durability: extremely durable and can last for decades with proper care.
2. Even heating: distributes heat evenly, making it great for cooking dishes that require consistent temperatures.
3. Versatility: It can be used on the stovetop, in the oven, on the grill, and over a campfire.
4. Non-stick properties: has natural non-stick properties that develop over time with regular use.
5. Nutritional benefits: you can add iron to your food, which is especially beneficial for people with iron deficiencies.
6. Affordable: it is generally less expensive than other types of cookware.

The difference in oils used for seasoning cast iron skillets

Several oils can be used for seasoning:

1. Flaxseed oil: This oil is high in polyunsaturated fats and has a high smoke point, making it a popular choice for seasoning.
2. Vegetable oil: This oil is also high in polyunsaturated fats and has a high smoke point, making it a good choice for seasoning.
3. Canola oil: This oil is also high in polyunsaturated fats and has a high smoke point, making it a good choice for seasoning.
4. Coconut oil: This oil is high in saturated fats and has a high smoke point, making it a good choice for seasoning.
5. Bacon grease: This oil is high in saturated fats and has a high smoke point, making it a popular choice for seasoning.

It’s important to note that all oils will work to season cast iron, but some oils may be more beneficial than others due to their specific properties.

It is best to use oils that have a high smoke point as they can withstand high temperatures without breaking down and smoking. These oils also provide a better non-stick surface on the skillet.

The main advantage of cast iron

One of the main advantages of cast iron cookware is its ability to retain heat and distribute it evenly.

Cast iron is great for dishes requiring consistent heat and for searing, sautéing, and pan-frying. It also has a natural non-stick surface and transfers heat well from the stovetop to the oven.

Also, Cast iron is also very durable, and it can last for decades with proper care.

Cast iron cookware has a rustic and comforting look in any kitchen.

How to have a well-seasoned cast-iron pan

The seasoning process for a cast iron pan helps the pan from rust and to create a smooth, non-stick surface. A well-seasoned skillet should have a smooth, dark surface that is free of rust or any other discoloration. The pan should also be easy to clean and maintain.

Oils with a high smoke point

Vegetable oil, flaxseed oil, canola oil, coconut oil, or bacon grease can be used for seasoning cast iron.

Properly coat your cast iron with oil to create a non-stick surface.

To protect it from rust and makes it more non-stick. The oils used to season are typically high in polyunsaturated fats, such as vegetable oil, flaxseed oil, canola oil, or coconut oil.

To season a cast iron pan, you should:

1. The first thing you need to do is clean the pan thoroughly with hot, soapy water and a stiff brush to remove any rust or debris.
2. Dry the pan completely with a dry paper towel or a lint-free towel.
3. Rub a thin coat of oil over the entire surface of the pan, including the handle and bottom.
4. Place the pan in the oven upside down on the top rack, and place a sheet of foil on the bottom rack to catch any drips.
5. Bake the pan at 500°F (260°C) for one hour.
6. Turn off the oven and let the pan cool down inside the oven.
7. Now you have a well-seasoned skillet.

Tip: For tough debris, use kosher salt and potato to rub the area.

Note: It’s essential to season cast iron periodically to maintain a non-stick surface and prevent rust; this is called a protective layer.

You will hear that you should avoid using soap and metal utensils as they can remove the seasoning; however, this is to be untrue. Soaps today are much milder and will not hurt your skillet. Using a metal spatula is ok as long as you do not gouge into your skillet.

Is cooking with cast iron better for you?

• Iron supplementation: Cooking with cast iron can add iron to your food, which can be beneficial for people with iron deficiencies.
• Lower fat cooking: Cast iron has natural non-stick properties, making it a great option for healthy cooking as it requires less oil.
• Better heat control has a high thermal mass and can retain heat well, making it great for cooking dishes that require precise heat control.
• Durability: cookware is extremely durable and can last for decades with proper care.
• Eco-friendly: cookware is made from natural materials and is recyclable, making it an eco-friendly option.

It’s important to note that, like any other cookware, it also should be seasoned and maintained properly to avoid rust and to prevent the iron from leaching into food. Also, people with hemochromatosis, a genetic disorder that causes the body to absorb too much iron, should avoid cooking with cast iron.

I found a cast iron skillet at the thrift store; now what?

You can find cast iron skillets at thrift stores, antique shops, or yard sales; however, if you found one, here are the steps you should take to clean and season it:

1. Check the skillet for rust or debris. If there is any rust present, use a wire brush or steel wool to remove it.
2. Clean the skillet: Scrub the skillet with hot, soapy water and a stiff brush to remove any rust or debris. If the skillet is particularly dirty or rusty, you can also use a mixture of equal parts water and vinegar or water and baking soda to help loosen the debris.
3. Dry the skillet: Once you’ve cleaned the skillet, dry it thoroughly with a clean cloth.
4. If the skillet has rust, you can remove it using a mixture of water and baking soda to scrub it or using a rust eraser.
5. Season the skillet: Rub a thin layer of oil (vegetable oil, flaxseed oil, canola oil, or coconut oil) over the entire surface of the skillet, including the handle and bottom.
6. Place the skillet in the oven upside down on the top rack, and place a sheet of foil on the bottom rack to catch any drips. Bake the skillet at 500°F (260°C) for one hour. Then, turn off the oven and let the skillet cool down inside the oven.
7. Use it: Once the skillet is seasoned, it’s ready to use. Keep in mind that regular use will make the skillet more non-stick over time.
8. Store in a dry place.

Cooking in cast iron is endless.

Cooking with cast iron cookware is incredibly versatile and has many possibilities.

Here are some popular dishes that can be cooked in cast iron include:

1. Skillet dishes such as fried chicken, steaks, and fish.
2. Sautéed vegetables such as mushrooms, onions, and peppers.
3. One-pot meals such as stews and soups.
4. Baked dishes such as cobblers, bread, and pizzas.
5. Grilled dishes such as burgers, steak, and vegetables.
6. Braised dishes such as pot roast and short ribs.
7. Pan-seared dishes such as scallops and pork chops.
8. Stir-fries and other Asian-inspired dishes.
9. Cornbread, pancakes, and waffles.

Cast iron cookware is also great for cooking on a campfire or over a fire pit, which is an excellent option for outdoor cooking and camping.

It also proves versatile as it can be used for a variety of sweet and savory dishes, including cakes, cookies, pies, casseroles, roasts, and more, making it a valuable addition to any kitchen. Also, it is great for making popcorn in the cast iron dutch oven.

What are the greatest advantages of using cast iron?

The greatest advantages of using cast iron cookware are:

1. Even heating: distributes heat evenly, making it great for cooking dishes that require a consistent temperature.
2. Durability: pots and pans are extremely durable and can last for decades with proper care.
3. Versatility: use on the stovetop, in the oven, on the grill, or even over a campfire.
4. Non-stick properties: has natural non-stick properties that develop over time with regular use.
5. Nutritional benefits: you can add iron to your food, which is especially beneficial for people with iron deficiencies.
6. Affordable: cookware is generally less expensive than other types of cookware.
7. Great heat retainer, so it can be used to keep food warm for a longer period of time.
8. Cook a wide variety of dishes.
9. A good option for outdoor cooking and camping.
10. The “Farm-to-table” and “Slow food” movements have also encouraged the use of cast iron cookware.
11. It is easy to clean and maintain.
12. Aesthetics: cookware has a rustic and traditional look that can add a sense of warmth and comfort to any kitchen.
13. Eco-friendly: is made from natural materials and is recyclable, making it an eco-friendly option.

Why is Cast-iron cookware so popular today

The cookware has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years. This is due to several reasons, such as:

Many well-known chefs have started to use cast iron in their kitchens, which is featured in their cookbooks and TV shows, which has helped to raise awareness of its benefits and versatility.

You may want to think before using non-stick pans.

The main concerns are that Non-stick pans are coated with a material called polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), which can release toxic fumes when heated to high temperatures. This can be dangerous to inhale and can cause flu-like symptoms.

In addition, the production of non-stick pans can have a negative impact on the environment, as the chemicals used in the coating process can be harmful to the environment.

Cast iron has a natural non-stick surface that develops over time with regular use and does not release toxic fumes.

It also can withstand high temperatures and is made from natural materials, making it an eco-friendly option.

Lastly, it’s important to note that if you use non-stick pans, use them as recommended by the manufacturer, and monitor their condition, to avoid using them if the coating is damaged or worn off.

It’s also essential to always use utensils that are safe for non-stick pans to prevent damaging the surface.

I hope this post on Why you should use cast iron has been helpful!

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