Take Care of Your Cast Iron Cookware, and It Will Take Care of You.
If you have cast iron in your kitchen, you know exactly how versatile it is. If you don't have any, now might be the time to consider taking the plunge. Cast iron is an extremely useful tool for any cook and, if you take care of it the proper way, it can outlast any higher-priced cookware.
First of all, cast iron has numerous advantages over the cookware you're currently using. If you care for it and season it the right way, it can be every bit as nonstick as the fancier cookware that costs much more. In addition, assuming there are no wooden handles, you can use it in the oven, on the stove, and even on the grill. Plus, it's durable. Take care of it, and it will last a long time.
As far as care is concerned, you want to make sure that all cast iron pots and pans are hand-washed. Never place them in the dishwasher as they are prone to rust. Obviously, this affects the seasoning aspect.
When washing, be sure not to use soap. If the cookware is properly seasoned, warm water and steel wool will do the trick. Dry with paper towels and store with the lid off. Excess moisture will encourage the cookware to rust.
Proper seasoning fills in the tiny pores and provides a protective coating, helping to prevent food from sticking. To season your cookware, simply rub it lightly with vegetable oil, lard, or shortening and place it in a 300-degree oven for about an hour. The more you do this, the more you will build up the protective coating.
If you want your cast iron to be around for a long time, then cooking acidic foods would be a cardinal sin. Cooking things such as tomatoes and lemon juice will ruin the seasoning of the pans since cast iron is such a highly reactive metal.
Lastly, don't use your cast iron as a storage container. Exposure to moisture over long periods of time will cause the cookware to rust. It's okay to use it to keep food warm while you're eating, but once the meal is over, clean it thoroughly.
So if you currently are without quality cast iron cookware, I would suggest starting out with a good skillet and a Dutch oven. You'll be amazed at the versatility of these pieces, whether you do a lot of pan frying, pan roasting, stewing, or deep frying. As long as you adhere to proper care and cleaning, your cast iron will be your friend for many, many years. - 17269
First of all, cast iron has numerous advantages over the cookware you're currently using. If you care for it and season it the right way, it can be every bit as nonstick as the fancier cookware that costs much more. In addition, assuming there are no wooden handles, you can use it in the oven, on the stove, and even on the grill. Plus, it's durable. Take care of it, and it will last a long time.
As far as care is concerned, you want to make sure that all cast iron pots and pans are hand-washed. Never place them in the dishwasher as they are prone to rust. Obviously, this affects the seasoning aspect.
When washing, be sure not to use soap. If the cookware is properly seasoned, warm water and steel wool will do the trick. Dry with paper towels and store with the lid off. Excess moisture will encourage the cookware to rust.
Proper seasoning fills in the tiny pores and provides a protective coating, helping to prevent food from sticking. To season your cookware, simply rub it lightly with vegetable oil, lard, or shortening and place it in a 300-degree oven for about an hour. The more you do this, the more you will build up the protective coating.
If you want your cast iron to be around for a long time, then cooking acidic foods would be a cardinal sin. Cooking things such as tomatoes and lemon juice will ruin the seasoning of the pans since cast iron is such a highly reactive metal.
Lastly, don't use your cast iron as a storage container. Exposure to moisture over long periods of time will cause the cookware to rust. It's okay to use it to keep food warm while you're eating, but once the meal is over, clean it thoroughly.
So if you currently are without quality cast iron cookware, I would suggest starting out with a good skillet and a Dutch oven. You'll be amazed at the versatility of these pieces, whether you do a lot of pan frying, pan roasting, stewing, or deep frying. As long as you adhere to proper care and cleaning, your cast iron will be your friend for many, many years. - 17269
About the Author:
The author has been cooking with all types of cooking accessories for over 20 years. He currently manages websites dedicated to cookware and low fat and fat-free recipes. Get more information on several kinds of kitchenware and/or grab some free low fat recipes now.
posted by X - Men at
9:00 AM
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