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Cast Iron Pan: A Guide to Cast Iron Cookware
Cast iron pans are the top chef and home cook’s choice for outstanding cookware that will last a lifetime.
The best cast iron skillets are known for their exceptional quality and durability, making them a top choice for both professional chefs and home cooks.
These pans are incredibly versatile and can be used to cook almost anything, from perfectly seared steaks to fried eggs, pancakes and even cornbread.
Why choose cast iron?
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Fantastic heat retention
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Another great benefit of a cast iron skillet is its durability. The best cast iron cookware can be used time and time again, with many products having decade-long guarantees. The heavy-duty bases are almost impossible to ruin
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Even heat distribution.
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Many cast iron skillets come with a helper handle, providing better grip and making it easier to lift and maneuver the heavy pan.
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Oven safe, so you can even use them to bake bread and cakes. Read more on our guide to cooking with cast iron pans.
Which lightweight iron pan should you choose?
Sous Chef stocks many different brands of cast iron pan, from different parts of the world. Choosing between brands there are two main things to think about:
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The cookware design and whether you like the look of it – different producers make different designs. Brands like Le Creuset are renowned for their high-quality enameled cast iron cookware, offering excellent heat distribution and aesthetic appeal.
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The price. As cast iron gets more expensive, it will have been seasoned more times during production. In the first year of use, this helps the pan develop non-stick properties more quickly. Modern innovations have also led to the creation of lightweight cast iron, which are easier to handle and clean while maintaining the durability of traditional cast iron.
Our range of cast iron cookware includes classic cast iron frying pans, casserole dishes and dutch ovens, as well as more specialist Skeppshult cast iron products such as kitchen equipment such as spice grinders, waffle irons and dumpling pans.
Cast Iron Skillets
Choosing, buying, caring for, and cooking with a cast iron skillet can transform your culinary experience, offering a versatile tool that improves with age. Here’s a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about cast iron skillets.
Choosing a Cast Iron Skillet
Size and Shape Select a size that matches your cooking needs. Skillets range from 6 to 15 inches in diameter, but an 8 to 12-inch pan is most versatile. Consider the shape; deeper skillets with rounded edges are great for dishes that need more space like stews.
Weight Cast iron is heavy, which is good for cooking but can be a challenge to handle. Ensure you can comfortably lift and maneuver the skillet you choose.
Surface Some grill skillets come pre-seasoned, which means they have a layer of oil baked onto them to start the non-stick process. If you have the option, buying your grill pre-seasoned saves initial effort.
Looking After Your Cast Iron Skillet
Seasoning Your Skillet Seasoning creates a non-stick surface and prevents rust. To season, coat lightly with oil and bake upside down in a 350°F oven for an hour. Let it cool in the oven. Repeat as necessary.
Cleaning and Maintenance Avoid soap as it can strip the seasoning. Instead rinse, clean with hot water and a stiff brush. For tough food residue, boil water in the skillet. After washing, dry thoroughly and apply a light coat of oil to protect the surface.
Storing Store in a dry place. If stacking skillets, place a paper towel between them to prevent moisture accumulation and rust.
Cooking With Your Cast Iron Skillet
Heat Management Cast iron takes longer to heat but holds heat well, providing consistent temperature. Heat it slowly to prevent the hot food from sticking and ensure even cooking.
Cooking Techniques Excellent for searing meat due to its heat retention. Also ideal for frying, baking, and simmering cooked anything. You can start to sear a dish on the stove and finish it in the oven.
Avoiding Rust Never leave water in your pan overnight or let it soak too long in warm water in the sink. Rust can form on metal very quickly but is preventable with proper drying and oiling after each use.
Versatility From stovetop to oven, the cast iron skillet is incredibly versatile. Bake a pie, fry up some chicken, or roast vegetables. It’s suitable for nearly any cooking task.
A cast iron skillet is a worthwhile addition to any kitchen, known for its durability, versatility, and superior cooking capabilities. With the right care, it can serve you well for decades, becoming a cherished tool in your culinary adventures.
Cast iron skillets give a robust, traditional aesthetic to your kitchen. They are notably heavier than other pans due to the dense material, providing a substantial, sturdy feel when handled.
The surface of a well-seasoned skillet is smooth with a slightly glossy finish, a testament to its non-stick capabilities developed over time.
The dark, blackened colour characteristic of cast iron not only speaks to its functionality but also adds a rustic charm.
These pans often feature a handle that extends from the body, sometimes with a helper handle on the opposite side to aid in maneuvering their significant weight.
When not to choose cast iron
There are three reasons not to choose cast iron:
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Weight – they are heavy, so you need to be comfortable lifting a heavy pan
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If you want to put it in a dishwasher – never ever put a cast iron pan in the dishwasher. It’s a great way to ruin your pan. Proper seasoning is essential to prevent food from getting stuck on the pan.
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If you’re cooking a lot of tomato sauces– the acid in the tomatoes can degrade the non-stick patina that builds up over time. When seasoning your pan, it is recommended to set it over medium heat to ensure any moisture is evaporated before applying oil.
Every kitchen should have at least one piece of cast iron. And if you care for it well it will last a lifetime.
To learn more about cast iron pans, read our buyer’s guide to cast iron pans. Or if you just want to know how to keep your cast iron in top condition for the years ahead, read our guides to:
If you're looking to add to your kitchen, consider cast iron skillets for their exceptional heat retention and durability.
Unlike standard cast iron pans, cast iron skillets often come with a helper handle for easier lifting, making them a great addition to any kitchen.
These skillets are the perfect size for searing meats, frying eggs, or even baking a golden crust on your favourite pie. The pre-seasoned surface means you can start cooking right away, with minimal maintenance needed to keep them in top condition.
At Sous Chef, we also offer a selection of lightweight cast iron options for those who love the benefits of cast iron cookware but prefer something easier to handle.
These iron skillets provide the same cooking surface quality without the heft, making them ideal for home cooks who want to enjoy the versatility and performance of cast iron skillets without compromising on convenience.
Discover our range today and find the skillet that suits your cooking style.
