Unlike other kitchen tools that tend to lose their quality with time, seasoned cast iron pans are known for their ever-improving quality. These long-lasting pans are manufactured with raw iron that is shaped into the skillets. Later, they get coated with seasonings and natural oil that make them ready to use on different meats for a flavor-packed food experience.
But while these pans are known for their flavors and quality, do we really know whether they are worth it or not? And why do these old pans are preferred over the new generations of factory-made kitchen items?
Let’s uncover this story today and learn everything about the cast iron skillets that make the biggest names of the cooking industry go crazy over them. Along with that, we will also discuss some tips and tricks to make your cast iron skillet last a lifetime.
If you are also a cooking aspirant, you must be aware of these pans and their popularity. And if you’re looking to buy one, you might know how difficult it is to find the right product. So to make this process easier, we have made a list of the best-seasoned cast iron skillets in 2023 that will help you narrow your options to make the right choice and the right purchase.
Now that we have discussed some of the best-seasoned iron skillets available in 2023, here is why you should invest in one and how. Let’s discuss!
Here are some factors that you should simply never ignore when purchasing a seasoned cast iron skillet for yourself:
When buying a cast-iron skillet for your kitchen, it is important that you look for one that features pouring spouts. These are small projections on the sides that make it easier for you to pour out excess gravy or fat from there. So when you are looking for your perfect pan, keep this feature in mind when making a decision.
Like buying any other kitchen utensil, size and weight are also crucial elements for buying a cast iron pan. These pans naturally tend to be on the heavier side because they’re made from iron. Other than that, they are also available in a wide variety of sizes. You can choose any size that works for you and your family efficiently. That said, the bigger your pan is, the heavier it will be. That is why keep this information in mind and choose a product that you can use and manage easily.
Generically, cast iron pans are only available in one color, black. It is so because they do not contain any coating that could potentially damage their natural benefits. But now, these pans are also available with enamel coatings that give the customer a wide range of color options to choose from. Not only that, but enameled cast pans are easy to clean and maintain as well.
That said, when you compare these benefits over the pros of your traditional cast iron pans, the traditional ones win for sure. But each consumer has its own priorities, so make your decision depending on what you like and prefer in a cooking ware.
Take a look at these tips to take good care of your seasoned iron skillet.
In this section, we are discussing why seasoned cast iron skillets are a better choice than other cooking pots and pans. Have a look!
Unlike your traditional non-stick pans, cast iron skillets come with pre-seasonings. These are coated on the iron itself, so when you cook in it, it transfers a signature aroma and taste to your food. This makes them unique and preferable as compared to other options. Not only does this property add flavor to your dishes, but these pans are known to increase the iron and mineral content of your food as well. Hence, improving the overall health benefits of your meal.
Cast iron pans are known for their ever-growing quality. While not non-stick at first, these pans tend to absorb fat and oils from the food you cook. And with time and regular oiling, they develop a non-stick coating that is even better than factory-made non-stick pans.
Because cast iron pans are literally made from raw iron, they are quite heavy and durable. If you take proper care of your skillet, the chances are that it will serve you a long time. Provided that you don’t break it, these pans can essentially last for a lifetime or even get passed to your next generation.
Cast iron skillets are a must-have for any cooking enthusiast. Their pre-seasoned, iron-rich properties and long life make them famous among cooks. Since these pans have been here for a long time and not planning to go anywhere soon, we have compiled a list of some of the best-cast iron skillets in 2023 so that you can choose one for yourself easily.
With dimensions of 17 inches length, 12.5 inches width, and a 2.3 inches height, the cast iron by Utopia kitchen is undoubtedly a favorite choice among cooking enthusiasts. It is not famous only for its pre-seasoned effects and non-stickiness over time, but it is known for its ability to improve the iron content of different foods. Yes, it is said that this skillet can increase the iron content of foods by up to 20%. And this makes it a good choice for anemic individuals.
To maintain the pre-seasoning of the skillet, make sure to season it every now and then so that it keeps up the taste of it. It is a highly versatile product and can be used for multiple functions. Some examples of such uses include broiling, searing, and traditional frying. You can easily hand wash the skillet after each use and apply some seasoning and oil after drying to preserve its quality.
With a temperature limit of up to 500 °F, the cast iron skillet by Amazon Basics is for sure one of the best available options in the market. It features flared sides for easy handling and expanded cooking space. It comes pre-seasoned and can be used in just out-of-the-box condition. Like all cast iron pans, this one is yet again versatile and used for many cooking methods, including oven use and grilling.
With dimensions of 22.2 inches, 15 inches, and 2.9 inches, the skillet weighs a good 12 pounds. Because of its vast size, you can use the pan for multiple purposes. You can even fit a whole chicken in it and enjoy a grilled chicken from the comfort of your home.
Lodge is well known for its top-quality cookware line in the cooking community. And this deep pre-seasoned cast skillet from them is no exception. Available in three sizes, 3 quart, 5 quart, 10.25 inches, it is one of the finest cast iron pans available in the market.
With dimensions of 17 inches length, 13 inches width, and 4 inches height, this skillet offers a good cooking space. Due to its high-quality production, it ensures equal heat distribution which in turn results in an even cook throughout the pan. It weighs 14.4 pounds, making it a heavy-duty skillet suitable for multiple kitchen functions.
With an amazing diameter of 12 inches, the Victoria cast iron skillet is a good option for any cooking aspirant. Featuring a helper handle, this cast iron has wide side edges for better control. It is a ready-to-use product, with preseasoning and a flaxseed oil coating. Not only that, but the iron amounts in this skillet make it a good option to improve the iron content of your food.
It is a pretty versatile option and can be used for a variety of cooking methods. Weighing 6 pounds, the pan is 14 inches in length, 12 inches in width, and 2.25 inches in height. It can incorporate a number of dishes and can be used for multiple cooking methods. Lastly, it is relatively affordable as compared to other available options.
A: Cast iron skillets are usable for nearly all kinds of cooking methods. And yes, you can easily put an iron skillet in the oven. Not only that but you can even use these pans for barbecue, grills, and a fire pit.
A: Though easy to clean, cast iron skillets are usually never dishwasher safe. These skillets contain seasonings and oil coatings over their surface that can be damaged during the washing cycles. That is why you should always hand wash these pans to maintain their quality and seasoning.
A: Cast iron pans are quite heavy-duty compared to other conventional kitchen tools. But when it comes to cleaning and maintaining, these require specific protocols. One such requirement includes no harsh chemical warning. When washing, you should use plain water and some mild soap to get rid of new fats and food residue. But other than that, avoid using harsh soaps as they can damage the oil coating and seasoning of your pan.