With this in mind, it’s essential to be mindful of a cast iron’s handles and use oven mitts or something similar when holding it. This can act as both a blessing and a curse, as the metal handles of these pans are incredibly hot when used in an oven or broiler. Hot handlesĬast iron pans retain heat incredibly well. This also affects the pan’s nonstick quality, and when not occasionally seasoned, it leads to more food sticking to the surface. However, if not handled with care, cast iron pans are susceptible to rusting and severe scratching. When done correctly, cast iron pans can last a lifetime. Maintaining the quality of a cast iron pan relies on a process called seasoning. In some instances, this can make moving cast iron pans quite a hassle, especially for those with wrist and hand issues. This adds to its durability, but on average, a standard 12-inch cast iron pan can weigh up to 8 pounds, roughly twice the weight of comparable pans. What you should consider about cast iron pans Weightīecause of their layered metal construction, cast iron cookware can be hefty. Some examples of cast iron use include dishes like fajitas or dutch babies, where the cast iron adds to the dish’s appeal while making it look stylish and unique in presentation. In many contemporary restaurant settings, chefs have begun to utilize cast irons for serving dishes and cookware due to their elegant look. Visual appealĬast iron pans are beautiful. Additionally, cast iron pans distribute intense heat evenly, ensuring things like meats are cooked thoroughly without doing any damage to the pan’s material. Their densely packed design means cast iron pans can withstand and retain high amounts of heat for more extended periods than most other cookware, making them suitable for baking and broiling. Heat conductionĬast iron pans are incredible heat conductors. Coating a cast iron pan with oil ensures that the seasoning is protected and will continue to operate at peak performance. Seasoning is the process that creates a nonstick layer on your cookware by rinsing with salt, water and oil. In most cases, cast iron pans should never be cleaned with harsh detergents or washed in a dishwasher they should be hand-washed and undergo a process called seasoning. Thanks to their design, the cookware is thought to last for hundreds of years with the proper care. What you’ll love about cast iron pans DurabilityĬast iron pans are some of the most durable cookware options. In the last hundred years, cast iron pans have seen a resurgence in popularity thanks to their incredible durability and ability to retain high heat. However, it wasn’t until 1707 when Abraham Darby patented the sand-casting method, which became the standard way of creating cast iron today. In the 16th century, they became popular and spread across Europe. The first known use of cast iron pans dates back to ancient China during the Han Dynasty. The result is a rugged pan with a signature textured exterior. After that, the molten metal is poured into a mold made of sand, water and powdered clay. They’re made by melting blocks of iron and steel together, layering them together and then adding chemicals to raise their carbon levels. Cast iron pansĬast iron pans have a centuries-long history. In the end, the primary difference between the two comes down to what kinds of foods you most enjoy cooking. Cast iron pans, by contrast, are more durable and more reactive but are heavier and more challenging to clean. Stainless steel pans are lightweight and less reactive than cast iron pans but provide even cooking and are easier to clean. Like most things, there are several factors to consider when determining which will work better for your kitchen.
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Two of the most essential tools in any kitchen are cast iron and stainless steel pans. With the right tools, cooking becomes a breeze instead of a chore and can add so much more to the experience and perhaps more importantly, the taste.