Learn the benefits of cast iron cooking with this easy guide on how to use cast iron cookware, including cast iron skillets and cast iron pots.
From sweet to savory and everything in between, cast iron skillets can truly become a powerhouse in the kitchen. Inexpensive, long-lasting, and versatile, cast iron cookware can provide the best cooking results – foods don’t stick and dishes tend to have crunchy, caramelized, fried and braised qualities. When properly maintained, cast iron cookware is extremely durable and versatile, making it a great investment for generations to come. In fact, my mom still has the same cast iron skillet she got as a wedding gift over 60 years ago! This legendary skillet has made a life of its own, and I’ve always loved to think of all the meals the fryer has had over the years – sauteed zucchini, sautéed green tomatoes, stewed lentils, flapjack, shredded browns, and sauteed vegetables, to name a few.
Cast iron pans can help increase your daily iron intake! The benefits of cast iron cookware are abundant, but they require a little technical knowledge to achieve. If you’re not familiar with cast iron cookware, you’ve probably seen your fair share of them on the Internet or at garage sales. There are many types of cast iron cookware these days. I have Large cast iron pans, cast iron mini pans, cast iron single pans, cast iron grill plates, and more. Now is your chance to get the most out of cooking with cast iron with my guide and top tips today.
start
Seasoning is one of the most important aspects of cast iron maintenance. spices Refers to the process of wiping a thin layer of oil on cast iron before storing it for future use. This thin layer of oil then becomes charred, which contributes to the non-stick properties of cast iron. Over time, this layer of oil undergoes polymerization and cast iron molecular bonds, protecting it from rust.
How to clean cast iron
After the initial seasoning, (not necessary for pre-seasoned cookware) the key to preserving cast iron is what you do after, after I finished cooking. After each use, cast iron pans should be cleaned immediately in hot water, dried with a towel, and seasoned. Soaking cast iron in water can cause the pan to rust, and extreme temperature changes can cause cracks in cookware. rusted cast iron can be repairedbut cracked cast iron can’t.
It may seem daunting at first but after reading about these 4 benefits of using cast iron cookware, you will understand why it is worth the effort! It really is no work, all you do is quickly clean the cast iron skillet, dry it, dip it in a little bit of cooking oil and you are good to go. I use olive oil, And it always comes in handy in my kitchen.

Benefits of cooking cast iron
iron bonus
Iron produces hemoglobin and myoglobin in your body, which are responsible for transporting oxygen to problems. There are two types of iron: heme iron, which is found in animal products, and non-heme iron, which is found in plants such as beans, nuts, and produce. The RDA for iron is 8 mg/day for men of all ages and postmenopausal women. Because of iron loss during menstruation, the recommended dietary allowance for premenopausal women is 18 mg/day. Search showed that cast iron cookware can significantly increase the iron content of foods based on their acidity, moisture and cooking time, making it easier for plant-based eaters to reach their iron RDA. good news!
food quality
Cast iron is a dense material that allows it to retain and distribute heat evenly over long periods of time. These properties are especially useful when roasting vegetables and baking bread and stews over low heat. Food cooked in a cast iron skillet can cook evenly, and with the right seasoning, it won’t stick to the pan. More food on your plate and less food stuck in the pan means you can savor every bite of your meal and spend less time preparing dishes, while saving on added fats too—no need to keep sipping on the oil bottle.

Enhanced versatility
Cast iron pans are incredibly versatile. Whether you’re at home or camping, the possibilities are endless. Cast iron skillets can be used on the stovetop, in the oven, on the grill, or placed over an open fire. They can also be used to make a wide variety of recipes such as lasagna, pot pieand cobbler and stir-fries and mac and cheese. In just a few uses, your new cast iron skillet is sure to become one of your favorite kitchen essentials.
longevity
Cast iron is relatively inexpensive and, when properly cared for, can last for generations. New, prepackaged cast iron cookware can range from $8.95 to $240 depending on size, type, and brand. There are cast iron cookware for every budget and culinary need! The best part? Every time you use and season your cast iron, it’s better at staying non-stick.
Check out some of my favorite cast iron products below and grab my link for a discount!
For cast iron skillet recipes, check out the following:
Moroccan chickpea frying pan with eggplant
Easy Vegetable Fajitas
thai noodle skillet tempeh
Easy vegetable frying pan tofu bibimbap
References:
- Britten, H.C., & Nossaman, C.E. (1986). Iron content in food cooked in iron pots. Journal of the American Dietetic AssociationAnd the 86(7), 897-901.
- Hill, Dr.; Thermal properties of cast iron. eHow. https://www.ehow.com/list_7651262_thermal-properties-cast-iron.html
- What is cast iron seasoning? (second abbreviation). Cast iron lodge. https://www.lodgecastiron.com/cleaning-and-care/cast-iron/science-cast-iron-seasoning
- p (2021, October 25). When do you get rid of a cast iron skillet? Benny shine. https://sparklingpenny.com/when-to-throw-away-a-cast-iron-skillet/
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