This all-purpose pan is what we always use.
Every day, we grab our cast-iron skillet more frequently than perhaps any other utensil in our kitchen. Be it achieving a perfect caramelized crust on a steak, preparing some fluffy cornbread, or frying almost anything you can think of, this versatile pan usually proves to be the top choice among professionals as well as everyday cooks.
well-cared for cast-iron skillet
Is inherently non-stick and offers superior uniform heat distribution, making it ideal for various cooking methods and recipes. Additionally, it’s versatile enough to move seamlessly between your stove top, oven, and grill. We consulted a food science expert to discover which ingredients truly shine when prepared using cast-iron cookware.
Meet Our Expert
Bryan Quoc Le, Ph.D.,
food scientist
and author of
150 Answers to Common Food Science Queries
Related:
34 Simple Skillet Recipes Everyone in the Family Will Enjoy
The Advantages of Using Cast Iron for Cooking
There are numerous factors motivating one to use cast iron for cooking. These span across various aspects including culinary techniques, convenience, and even health advantages.
-
Iron absorption:
Based on insights from food science consultant and author Bryan Quoc Le, many dishes enhance their nutritional profile when prepared using a cast-iron skillet because they absorb trace quantities of iron throughout the cooking process. “For instance, both pancakes and cornbread could see notable boosts in their iron levels,” he notes. Foods that gain the highest amount of additional iron tend to be those with higher moisture content, which are also somewhat acidic and spend more time simmering in the cookware. Nonetheless, concerning acidity, it should be kept in mind that
Acidic foods may gradually wear down
The seasoning and coating of the pan are crucial factors to consider—should the pan be well-seasoned (and dearly cherished), this issue generally isn’t hard to resolve. -
Even browning:
Cast iron skillets excel in retaining heat, making them an excellent choice if you want optimal warmth during cooking.
golden brown crust
Whether you’re cooking meat or vegetables, you’ve hit the jackpot. The excellent heat retention guarantees that all ingredients cook uniformly. -
Naturally nonstick:
The more you use your cast iron pans over time, the better their natural seasoning becomes, providing an inherent non-stick surface. Due to this characteristic, these skillets become incredibly versatile tools for cooking everything from scrambled eggs to fried chicken.
Tips
Ways to enhance iron uptake:
In addition to extended cooking durations, enhancing iron uptake in your system is most effectively achieved by combining high-iron items with sources rich in vitamin C—this could involve using supplements or incorporating meals packed with vitamin C. As suggested by Quoc Le, you might prepare chili or stew over low heat in a Dutch oven for an extensive period then finish off the dish by adding elements such as lime juice directly into the mix or serving alongside guacamole or salsa garnished with chips.
Top Meals to Prepare in a Cast-Iron Pan
Seared Meats
Probably, the kitchen tool we reach for most frequently when searing meat is our trusty cast-iron skillet. Its exceptional ability to retain heat guarantees a flawless crust each time, and because of even heat distribution throughout, the meat cooks consistently from edge to edge. This versatile pan is also our first choice for
reverse searing
or completing in the oven as it transitions effortlessly from stovetop to oven. Consider using your cast-iron skillet for cooking steak.
pork chops
, lamb chops, and even so
tuna steaks
.
High Moisture Foods
As per Quoc Le, foods rich in moisture facilitate the migration of iron due to water serving as a carrier. Most veggies and fruits consist primarily of water, which means cooking them via methods like braising or simmering in cast iron can boost their iron uptake. Similarly, even though meats have considerable amounts of moisture, you should continue pan-searing them for better results.
Pizza and Bread
The non-stick property of cast iron makes it ideal for baking pizzas and bread. Try using it for your next cooking session.
sourdough loaf
or to make a
skillet pizza
.
Baked Goods
Besides bread, a cast iron skillet is an excellent tool for preparing dishes such as
skillet cookies
, brownies, and
cornbread
Not only does this add an element of enjoyment to the presentation, but these dishes also ensure more even baking compared to using a regular baking pan.
Fried Foods
Because cast iron excels at maintaining heat, it makes it simpler to keep the cooking oil at a consistent temperature. Opt for using a cast-iron pan for this purpose.
fried chicken wings
For your upcoming game day.
One-Pan Meals
Rotate your cast-iron skillet into your regular meal routine. It works well for many dishes.
one-pan meals
, including
stir-fries
,
fried rice
, or
weeknight paella
.
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Martha Stewart
