Special Care of Cast Iron Cookware

Since the early years of this country, our forefathers prepared their meals using cast iron cookware – a preferred choice based on the ease in cooking, improved flavor of the meal, and lasting durability. It is no surprise that in this current day and age - even with all the other options in cooking utensils – chefs and cooking enthusiasts alike continue to make cast iron cookware their first choice.

The earliest record of cast iron cookware dates back to1865 with the Griswold Company brand. Depending on the size of the product, cast iron cookware can be extremely heavy when compared to other types of cooking pots and pans. Products in the cast iron cookware family include Dutch ovens, griddles, skillets, and frying pans. The metal used in producing cast iron cookware helps to keep heat evenly distributed throughout the pan, which is always important in successful food preparation. If cast iron cookware is used properly, food will slide out of the pan without effort and without the use of cooking sprays or oils – additives that can increase a meal’s calorie count. Also, the durability of cast iron cookware is such that, if it is properly cared for, it can last a lifetime.

To care for cast iron cookware, you must first learn how best to clean it – using warm, soapy water and completely drying the cookware with a paper towel. Additionally, in order to appropriately prepare the cast iron cookware prior to cooking, put the pan on a hot burner for a few minutes. Then, use a paper towel to lightly oil the pan with vegetable oil or a type of shortening. Let the pan sit on the hot burner for a few minutes and then remove the pan from the burner and wipe off any leftover oil from the pan; this will prevent food from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Lastly, pans should be stored away from any type of humidity; if the cast iron pan gets damp, it can cause rust to form. And microwaves and dishwashers are not recommended for use with cast iron cookware.

Cast iron cookware is extremely durable and very rarely scratches. Professional chefs utilize cast iron cookware because various cooking utensils can be used on the pan without the worry of damaging it. Also, because of the durability, cast iron cookware products can transfer easily from stove top to oven. This eliminates quite a few dishes and allows for easy clean up after cooking.

For many, cooking is a passion - something that brings relaxation and pleasure. Some choose to cook as a hobby for their own enjoyment, while others choose to make cooking a career. No matter what the situation, choosing the right cookware can make the difference in producing an average meal versus producing an extraordinary meal. The choice of cast iron cookware can mean the preparation of a meal that brings a real sense of pride to the chef and pure enjoyment for the ones lucky enough to share it.

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