If there’s one pan in my kitchen that gets the most love, it’s my cast iron skillet. In fact, I have two of them, and they’re in heavy rotation!
Did you know that the cast iron skillet has been around since nearly the dawn of civilization? It originated in 5th century BCE China and has since become a timeless kitchen staple. But what makes cast iron so beloved by cooks everywhere?
For starters, cast iron skillets are known for their superior heat retention. They heat evenly and can last a lifetime, making them a wise investment. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile. Whether you’re cooking on the stovetop, in the oven, or under the broiler, a cast iron skillet can handle it all without breaking a sweat.
Read where I compare Enameled, Cast Iron, or Non-Stick Skillets.
An added bonus of cooking with cast iron is the potential health benefit: cooking in a cast iron skillet can actually boost your iron intake. Studies have shown that cooking acidic foods like spaghetti sauce in cast iron can increase the iron content by 2 to 5 milligrams—a healthy perk for your diet!
But that’s not all. Cast iron also improves with age and use, developing a natural non-stick patina over time. This unique seasoning process helps prevent sticking and makes it easier to clean with each use, unlike traditional non-stick pans that can degrade over time.
While most cast iron skillets come preseasoned and ready to use right away, it’s important to continue seasoning them after each use to maintain that slick, non-stick surface. Regular care ensures your skillet only gets better with time, becoming a kitchen tool that will last for generations.
The best part? Cast iron skillets are affordable and economical. A 12-inch Lodge Cast Iron Skillet can be found for as little as $29.50 on Amazon. And, the heavier the skillet, the better its heat retention—ideal for searing and slow-cooking.
Of course, one downside to the cast iron skillet is that they are heavy and cumbersome, especially if you’re used to lightweight pans. But the weight contributes to their exceptional heat distribution, making them a great tool for even cooking.
For those who love the idea of cast iron but are concerned about weight, there are also lighter options available, like enamel-coated cast iron skillets. These offer many of the same benefits, with a bit less heft.
So, do all great skillets have to be cast iron? That question might be answered in another article…stay tuned.
Now, I’m curious—what’s your favorite skillet in the kitchen? Are you on Team Cast Iron, or do you have a different pan that wins your heart every time you cook? Let me know!
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