Why You Should Be Cooking with Cast Iron: 7 Surprising Benefits
Cooking with cast iron may seem like a relic of the past, but it’s making a major comeback—and for good reason. More than just a sturdy kitchen tool, cast iron cookware offers a range of surprising benefits that can transform your cooking. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook, here are seven reasons why you should be using cast iron.
1. Superior Heat Retention and Distribution
Cast iron pans heat up slowly, but once they do, they retain that heat evenly across the surface. This makes them perfect for searing steaks, frying, or even baking. The even distribution of heat ensures that your food cooks consistently, eliminating hot spots that can ruin a dish.
- Pro tip: Preheat your cast iron skillet before cooking to get a perfect golden-brown sear every time.
2. Naturally Non-Stick Surface
With proper seasoning (the process of coating the pan with oil and heating it), cast iron becomes naturally non-stick. Over time, this seasoning builds up, improving the non-stick qualities without the need for synthetic coatings found in traditional non-stick pans.
- Pro tip: Avoid using soap when cleaning your cast iron skillet to maintain the seasoning. A scrub brush and hot water will do the trick!
3. Incredibly Versatile
Cast iron isn’t just for the stovetop; it’s one of the most versatile pieces of cookware you can own. You can use it for frying, sautéing, baking, and even grilling. Since it’s oven-safe, cast iron is perfect for one-pan meals that go from stovetop to oven seamlessly.
- Pro tip: Try baking cornbread, casseroles, or even pizza in your cast iron skillet for an extra-crispy crust.
4. Long-Lasting Durability
If treated right, cast iron can last a lifetime (or longer). Many cooks pass down cast iron cookware through generations. Unlike other pans, cast iron doesn't warp, scratch easily, or degrade over time. It’s one of the most durable materials for cooking, making it a worthwhile investment.
- Pro tip: Dry your cast iron thoroughly after washing to prevent rust, and apply a light layer of oil before storing it.
5. Improves with Age
One of the most surprising benefits of cast iron is that it actually gets better the more you use it. Every time you cook with a cast iron pan, you add to its natural seasoning, enhancing the non-stick surface and giving it a beautiful, well-worn finish.
- Pro tip: Don’t be afraid to use your cast iron for high-heat cooking. The more you use it, the more seasoned and effective it becomes.
6. Health Benefits: Adds a Boost of Iron to Your Food
Cooking with cast iron can actually improve your health by adding a small amount of dietary iron to your food. This is especially beneficial for those with iron deficiencies or anyone looking for a natural way to incorporate more iron into their diet.
- Pro tip: Acidic foods like tomatoes and citrus can help release more iron from the pan into your food.
7. Affordable and Eco-Friendly
Unlike high-end cookware that can cost hundreds of dollars, cast iron skillets are relatively inexpensive. A good-quality cast iron skillet can be found for under $50, and because they last forever, you’ll get more bang for your buck. Additionally, because they don't have synthetic coatings or harmful chemicals, cast iron cookware is environmentally friendly.
- Pro tip: You can often find high-quality cast iron skillets at second-hand shops or garage sales. With a little cleaning and seasoning, they’ll be as good as new!
Final Thoughts
Cooking with cast iron isn’t just about tradition—it’s about efficiency, versatility, and longevity. From its even heat retention to its natural non-stick surface, cast iron can elevate your cooking game. Plus, the health benefits and long-lasting durability make it a must-have for any kitchen. If you haven’t already made the switch, now’s the time to start cooking with cast iron and discover its surprising benefits for yourself!
