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If you’re new to cooking with cast iron, you’re in for a treat. Cast iron is an incredibly versatile and durable material that can last for generations with proper care.
With a little bit of practice, you’ll quickly fall in love with cooking with cast iron. Whether you’re making a skillet cornbread or a juicy steak, cast iron can handle it all and will become a kitchen staple that you’ll treasure for years to come.
WHY CAST IRON?
Cooking with cast iron has many benefits that make it a popular choice among chefs and home cooks alike. Here are just a few reasons why:
- Versatility: Cast iron is incredibly versatile and can be used for a wide range of cooking methods, including frying, searing, baking, and roasting. It can be used on the stove, in the oven, or even on the grill.
- Durability: Cast iron is incredibly durable and can last for generations with proper care. It’s made to withstand high temperatures and won’t warp or dent easily.
- Heat retention: Cast iron is a great conductor of heat and retains heat well, which means it can cook food evenly and keep it warm for longer.
- Non-stick: When seasoned properly, cast iron can become naturally non-stick, making it a great alternative to traditional non-stick cookware that can be harmful to health.
MUST HAVE
CAST IRON
You can walk into any kitchen store and find cast iron pans in all shapes and sizes. The sheer number of options would overwhelm anyone. However, with a little knowledge about the different types of cast iron pans, you can choose the perfect one for your needs.
When choosing a cast iron pan, consider what type of cooking you’ll be doing and how many people you’ll be cooking for. It’s also important to choose a pan that’s the right size for your stovetop and oven.
So, what pans do most people actually need?
- 10 1/4″ Skillet: A cast iron skillet is a versatile pan that can be used for everything from frying to baking. Skillets come in a variety of sizes and are great for cooking meals for one or two people. We love to roast a chicken, bake pies, and sear steaks in ours!
- Dutch oven: A cast iron Dutch oven is a large, heavy pot with a lid that can be used for slow-cooking stews, soups, and roasts. I regularly bake in mine as well to create that perfect crispy/chewy crust. Dutch ovens are perfect for feeding a crowd and can be used on the stovetop or in the oven.
- Griddle: A cast iron griddle is a flat, rectangular pan that’s perfect for cooking pancakes, eggs, and other breakfast foods. This might not be a NEED but its nice to have for pancake breakfasts! Griddles can also be used for making sandwiches and searing meats. We love to throw ours on the grill and sear scallops while we grill a steak for a surf and turf moment.
Do I have to buy it new?
Thrifting cast iron is a great way to find affordable and high-quality cookware for your kitchen. Cast iron pans are often passed down through generations, so it’s not uncommon to find a vintage cast iron pan at a thrift store or garage sale.
When thrifting cast iron, it’s important to know what to look for. Here are some tips to help you find the best cast iron pans:
- Look for well-known brands: Cast iron pans from reputable brands like Lodge, Griswold, and Wagner are often of higher quality and more durable than lesser-known brands.
- Check for cracks and rust: Look for cracks or rust on the surface of the pan. Small amounts of rust can be removed with a scrub brush and some salt, but large amounts of rust or cracks may indicate that the pan is not worth purchasing.
- Check the seasoning: If possible, inspect the seasoning on the pan. A well-seasoned pan will have a smooth and shiny surface. If the surface is dull or sticky, the pan may need to be reseasoned. Learn how in our cast iron seasoning guide here.
- Check the weight: Cast iron pans should feel heavy for their size. If the pan feels lightweight, it may be made from a lower-quality cast iron or may be a knock-off brand.
- Check the handle: Make sure the handle is securely attached to the pan and is not loose or wobbly.
You can find a high-quality cast iron pan at a thrift store or garage sale that will last for years to come. Just remember to properly season and care for your cast iron pan to maintain its durability and non-stick surface.
CAST IRON CARE 101
Yes, you can use soap
While many people believe that soap should never be used on cast iron, the truth is that using soap on cast iron is perfectly safe as long as it’s done correctly.
The concern with using soap on cast iron is that it can strip away the seasoning, which is the layer of oil that’s been baked into the pan to create a non-stick surface. However, as long as you use a mild dish soap and avoid scrubbing too hard, you can safely clean your cast iron with soap and water.
Here’s how to clean your cast iron with soap:
- Rinse the pan with hot water: Rinse your cast iron under hot water to remove any loose food or debris.
- Add a small amount of soap: Add a small amount of mild dish soap to the pan and use a soft sponge or brush to gently scrub the surface.
- Rinse again with hot water: Rinse the pan again with hot water to remove any soap residue.
- Dry the pan thoroughly: Dry your cast iron thoroughly with a clean towel or by placing it on a low heat on your stovetop.
- Apply a thin layer of oil: After cleaning, apply a thin layer of oil to the surface of the pan to help maintain the seasoning
But no, you don’t have to…
Some people prefer to avoid using soap on cast iron to preserve the natural non-stick surface that develops over time through seasoning.
If you prefer not to use soap on your cast iron, here’s how you can clean it without soap:
- Rinse with hot water: Rinse the pan with hot water to remove any loose food or debris.
- Scrub with salt: Sprinkle a generous amount of coarse kosher salt onto the surface of the pan, and use a damp sponge or brush to scrub the salt into the pan. The salt acts as a natural abrasive, helping to remove any stubborn food particles.
- Rinse again with hot water: Rinse the pan again with hot water to remove any salt residue.
- Dry the pan thoroughly: Dry your cast iron thoroughly with a clean towel or by placing it on a low heat on your stovetop.
- Apply a thin layer of oil: After cleaning, apply a thin layer of oil to the surface of the pan to help maintain the seasoning.
TIME TO IRON OUT YOUR RECIPES!
Cooking with cast iron pans is a great way to create delicious and healthy meals. Cast iron pans are durable, versatile, and can be used for a wide variety of cooking methods. They are also an excellent source of iron, which is essential for maintaining good health.
When cooking with cast iron, it’s important to properly season the pan to create a natural non-stick surface. This can be done by applying a layer of oil and baking the pan in the oven. Cast iron pans should also be cared for properly to maintain their durability and longevity.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, a cast iron pan can help you create a meal that’s full of flavor and nutrients. With the right care and attention, your cast iron pan can last a lifetime, making it a valuable addition to any kitchen.
Which means you can cook what you crave. Whenever you want it. At home.
We love to see and hear about your adventures in the kitchen! Please leave a comment or tag me on Instagram with @TheFryFarmette and #TheFryFarmette so we can cheer you on!
