If you’re looking for a versatile, affordable and easy-to-clean cookware option, consider investing in a cast iron pan. You’ll love it for many years to come!
To get the best results from your cast iron pan, it’s important to season it. This process creates a non-stick layer that bonds to the pan and seals it from rusting.
1. It’s Versatile
Cast iron is a time-tested and durable material that’s been around for centuries. Flea markets, garage sales, your great-aunt’s kitchen and pricey culinary stores are all stocking these old-fashioned pieces that have a reputation for being hardy and safe to use.
One of the biggest benefits of cooking with cast iron is that it can handle high temperatures better than nonstick pans. This means that you don’t need to use as much oil or butter when frying or searing food.
Cooking with cast iron is also healthier for you than using nonstick pans. Unlike many nonstick coatings, cast iron doesn’t produce toxic emissions or leach carcinogens into your meals.
In addition to being a time-tested and durable material, cast iron is also easy to clean. Typically, you just use water and a rag to wipe away any residue. There are even cleaning tools out there designed specifically for cast iron pans that don’t tarnish the finish.
2. It’s Easy to Clean
Cooking with cast iron is a great option for many reasons, but one of the most important is that it’s easy to clean. It’s not difficult to wipe down with a damp dish towel or paper towel after each use and rinse off any leftover food particles.
While some people have a hard time letting go of the soap myth, the truth is that cast iron pans don’t require much soap at all, and even a small amount can be fine for a well-seasoned pan.
You can simply rinse off the pan with hot water and scrub it with a brush. If the food is very stuck to the pan or if it’s smelly, you may want to add an abrasive agent like coarse salt to the water and scrub the pan with that. Or you can try rubbing it with oil and letting it air dry to help keep the pan clean.
3. It’s Durable
Cast iron pans are durable and can last for years if cared for properly. If you keep them clean, season them regularly and store them away from moisture, you can enjoy them for decades.
A lot of people have a variety of cleaning rituals for their cast iron pans. Some people oil them after each use, others brush them with soap or scrub them with steel wool pads.
The best way to clean a cast iron pan is with hot water and a stiff cast iron brush. It can be a little tricky at first, but once you get the hang of it, it’s easy to keep your pans looking great!
A light coat of cooking oil can also enhance the non-stick nature of cast iron. This step is especially helpful for the inside of the pan, but can also be applied to the outside.
4. It’s Affordable
If you’re looking for a good quality cooking tool, cast iron pans are definitely a great option. They don’t cost a lot of money, and they come with a variety of benefits that you can’t find with other types of cookware.
First of all, cast iron is a great choice for high heat because it can hold the heat much better than other kinds of pans. This means that you won’t have to worry about burning your food because the heat will be distributed evenly throughout the pan.
Second, cast iron is more effective at searing and browning foods than other types of pans. This can help you make a better-tasting meal and ensure that your food stays moist.
Finally, a lot of people get nervous about seasoning their cast iron, but it’s actually pretty easy! The key is to start with a pan that’s pre-seasoned.
