Economical Cookware-Get a Cast Iron Set
Durable Cookware That Will Last a Lifetime With Proper Care
Mar 29, 2009
Types of Cast Iron Cookware
This cookware comes in a variety of finishes. The most economical is unfinished black cast iron. When purchasing this kind, it will need to be properly seasoned before attempting to cook with them. This is an easy method, which requires placing cooking oil in the pan and rubbing the entire surface with the oil. The pan is placed in a stove and then heated for a period of time to seal in the oil. This is what causes the natural non-stick coating. Prices for black cast iron is fairly reasonable. A 3-piece skillet set can cost under $50.00.
Don’t feel like going through the process of seasoning a pan? Then purchase one reasonably priced that is already seasoned at lodgemfg.com. Although the pricing to purchase is slightly higher than one unseasoned, this saves time for the home cook from the initial process of seasoning for the first time, which is helpful.
Cast Iron cookware also can be found with an enamel finish offered by companies such as Le Creuset, that come in a variety of colors. Some people prefer this finish as dish can be directly presented in its pot. Unfortunately, most of these come with a heftier price tag than the traditional black cast iron.
There are some retailers who offer an alternative to Le Creuset, such as enamelcastironcookware.com a website offering discounted enamel cookware.
The Difference Between Black Cast Iron and Enamel
The difference between unfinished black cast iron and the enamel finish is that with black cast iron it should never be washed with soapy water as it dries out the surface. It should be scrubbed and rinsed with plain water and then coated with a light cooking oil after each use to maintain. You should also periodically season it. With enamel set, you have the convenience of placing your cookware in the dishwasher without the hassle of periodically seasoning. It also allows you to cook with acidic ingredients such as tomatoes, which usually react with black cast iron.
Black cast iron cookware comes in a variety of styles for the home cook. Most popular is the skillet. The skillet can be used like any other open pan. There are also Dutch ovens, which are great for making hearty stews. Other selections available include grills; drop biscuits, cornbread pans and panini presses.
With other kinds of cookware it eventually has to be replaced, but not so with cast iron. This legendary cookware will only get better as it ages.
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