Why You Need a Cast Iron Grill Pan (and how to use one)

Why do you need a raw cast iron grill pan?

Raw cast iron grills are back! Not that they ever really left, but a really good raw cast iron grill pan can make cold days a little less bitter and owners without a backyard get their grilling fix anytime they please. So if you’re bombarded with tempting barbecue recipes and juicy grilled burger dishes on your Facebook and Instagram feed, raw cast iron grills are your solution. So let's get straight to why you should have this piece of cookware in your kitchen. 1. Healthier cooking for a nutritious meal As a raw cast iron cookware, it is amazing at releasing pure natural iron into your food. It serves as an affordable and convenient option to add iron minerals into your meals, perfect for those currently on iron supplements. Our favourite pick is the Lodge Blacklock Cast Iron Square Grill Pan 12inch/30cm. How well you absorb these natural irons that are produced in a raw cast iron pan depends on the food acidity as well as the cooking time. So if you have iron-deficiency you shouldn't rely on these pans completely but rather, use it to boost iron in your diet in addition to consuming iron-rich foods. Source: Columbia University in the city of New York (Go Ask Alice), livestrong.com 2. Durable and lasts a lifetime Often hailed as the King of Cookware, raw cast iron grill pans reign supreme in the cooking industry. Despite new technological advances and the arrival of highly effective cookware, the raw cast iron grill pan cooks better than most coated cookware in the market thanks to its durability. Raw cast iron is a more durable cooking service because it can be used on high heat and can handle the abuse from metal cooking utensils and scourers. 3. Supreme heat retention The fact that they can sustain high temperatures, makes them the perfect cooking vessel in the kitchen for grilling or baking. Being able to cook with raw cast iron on a high heat allows you to sear steaks and chicken exceptionally well, while the heat retention keeps food warm for oven to table serving. Two baked desserts that are great to serve out of your raw cast iron pans are the Molten Skillet Brownie and the classic All American Apple Pie

4. Tough and versatile We love that these pans are so versatile and can be used on almost any heat source: gas, induction, ceramic, halogen, electric and even campfire!

They are also exceptionally tough, you can use them in conventional ovens as well as cook with metal utensils on a high heat - something that most non-stick pans cant! What's the difference between Raw cast iron and Enamelled cast iron grill pan? Raw cast iron is more heat resilient and absorbent of cooking oils to build up unique flavour and natural nonstick. Lodge and Pyrolux are two raw cast iron that you can use on high heat. The downside of raw cast iron is that it requires regular seasoning to maintain this natural nonstick. Enamelled cast iron features a glossy overcoat of enamel which prevents it from rusting; it looks great and removes the requirement of seasoning for maintenance as the coating provides a nonstick cooking surface. The downside of enamelled cast iron pans is that they have to be used on lower heat (low to medium heat only) so as not to damage the enamel cooking surface. What to do before using your raw cast iron? Before using your cast iron pan ensure that you season it. The seasoning process builds up a fine layer of polymerized fat to create a natural non-stick finish that continues to improve with use. However what's great to know is that cast iron manufacturers such as Lodge eliminates this step for you and comes pre-seasoned, which means it is ready to use right out of the box. If you want to get the Aussie backyard cookout vibe in your indoor kitchen, here are some essential tips you should know.

How to use a raw cast iron grill pan

1. Preheat your raw cast iron grill pan Gradually bring to a medium to high heat for at least 5 minutes, rotating it every once in a while. This substantially prevents hot spots which can overcook or burn some parts of the meat without affecting other areas of the food. Perform a quick temperature check to see if the pan is warm enough to start adding the meat. Flick drops of water in the pan to see if it evaporates immediately. If so, your grill pan is ready. Note: When your pan is pre-heated correctly, you will achieve nice charred edges on your meat and vegetables, including the deep savoury flavour. It makes your food taste more like it just came out of your outdoor grill. 2. Add a little oil Spread a bit of vegetable oil (or canola oil) across the pan to get even sear. It will also prevent food from sticking on the grates and give you the lovely crosshatched look on your food. 3. Hand wash with soap Handwash your grill pan with mild detergent by using a nylon brush or sponge to scrape off the stuck-on bits. We recommend using the White Magic Eco Basics Dish Brush to do this task. Remember! Avoid using the dishwasher and metal scouring pads to wash your raw cast iron as it can strip and harm the seasoning of the grill pan. 4. Dry promptly and thoroughly Ensure that your raw cast iron pan is completely dry before adding oil to avoid rust. Use a lint-free cloth or paper towel to ensure it dries up completely. 5. Rub with a thin layer of oil Spread a light, thin layer of Seasoning spray or vegetable oil all over pan to keep a good season, ready for use. Here's a video showing Quick Tips for raw Cast Iron Use and Care:

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Do you have any tips or tricks on how to use a raw cast iron grill pan? Share your thoughts with us in the comment box below. Looking for more cast iron grill pan? Browse our cast iron griddle & grill pans category by clicking on the banner below.

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Next cast iron read: How to season a cast iron pan for the first time

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