Many home chefs grab their tried-and-true non-stick stainless steel and ceramic skillets when they’re ready to cook. After all, they’re cheap and get the job done. But one slightly pan type deserves more of our attention: the cast iron skillet.
If you’re already feeling intimidated by old wives’ tales that tell you cast iron is hard to care for or even harder to work with, don’t run away just yet. Kendra from Bon Appetit shares some helpful tips on how to make the most of a cast-iron skillet in this video:
Perfect for everything from sauteing vegetables to cooking an entire casserole in one skillet, cast iron is truly the only pan you’ll ever need in the kitchen. Use it as a panini press or go from oven to stove in seconds. It cleans up easily, is non-stick, and virtually refuses to break.
Other non-stick pans can warp, discolor and provide uneven cooking surfaces. Cast iron delivers a well-cooked dish every single time.
Cast iron is a must-have for campers and outdoor cooks. Create scrumptious pies, fried fish, omelets, and more right over the fire. There are several styles and sizes beyond the skillet. From Dutch ovens for baking to flat griddles for shallow frying, each one serves its own purpose.
There’s no question why this reliable cookware stands the test of time. When used and stored properly, cast iron can effectively remain like-new for generations. The key is to avoid washing with harsh soaps; instead, use plain warm water and wipe it dry immediately after use. From there, season it with some vegetable oil.
The cast-iron skillet is the perfect go-to kitchen tool for every home chef. Once you try one in your kitchen, you’ll be hooked and unlikely to reach for anything else.
