Advantages And Disadvantages Of Cast Iron Cookware

Nothing is cast in stone, except perhaps the reliability and usefulness of cast iron when used in cookware. Its benefits have been enjoyed by man for centuries, from the ancient cauldrons and old-fashioned cooking pans to more modern skillets and cooking pots. Cooking tools and implements have also evolved over the years, and “cast iron technology” followed suit. Thus, it is no wonder how cast iron cookware sets have also come into existence. le creuset cast iron cookware setCheck Out Le Creuset Classic Enameled Cast-Iron 6-Piece Cookware Sets Here

The Basics on Cast Iron Cookware Sets

To begin with, let us understand what cast iron is. Cast iron is the result of melted pig iron mixed with carbon and silicon alloys. Technically, once the mixture

Cast iron cookware sets are extremely durable. Our ancestors’ use of cast iron cookware over open fire gives you an idea of how sturdy and resilient it is. With the modifications and innovations brought on by modern technology in the manufacture of this cookware, it could only be tougher.

Downsides of Cast Iron Cookware Sets

Of course it would be wise to also take note of the disadvantages of cast iron cookware sets.

Slow heat conduction. With cast iron, the conduction or transfer of heat is very, very slow. If you’re cooking with a cast iron pan or skillet, you have to exercise a certain degree of vigilance. Control of the temperature or heat is vital because, if heated too quickly, hot spots could develop, causing cooking problems with the food.

Extreme heat. Once heated, cast iron will become extremely hot. This means even the handles of cast iron cookware sets, when made with cast iron, will also be hot. In order to avoid accidents, most likely involving burning or scalding, use the proper kitchen tools or supplies for handling these types of cookware.

Effects of iron. It is a given that, when cooking with cast iron cookware, small amounts of iron will manage to find its way into the food. Those who have allergies or health problems related to iron excess will have issues with this. However, those with iron deficiencies will benefit from

Since bare cast iron has a tendency to have a sticky surface, it is important for cast iron cookware sets to be seasoned. Seasoning is the process of coating all surfaces of the cookware with polymerized oils and fats (mostly vegetable oils or animal fat) to make it resistant to sticking and rusting, as well as serve as a shield against trace amounts of iron getting into the food. This process is often done repeatedly over time to ensure the non-stick properties of the cookware are retained.

Enamel coating. Enamel cast iron cookware sets have also become popular over the years. The introduction of enamel coated cast iron cookware has eliminated the need to season the surface of the cast iron pans since the enamel coating pretty much takes care of it already. The enamel coating also makes it much easier to clean than the merely-seasoned pans.

Cleaning and maintenance. Usage, cleaning, and storage of cast iron cookware sets is not something to be taken lightly.

Before cooking, put a small amount or thin coat of vegetable oil or shortening on the surface. This is to ensure no sticking.

After cooking, wash with warm to hot water and a stiff brush, soap, paper towel, or rag, depending on the amount of food debris it