Cast Iron pans have been used for centuries and have become incredibly popular in recent years due to their cooking performance and longevity. Cast iron provides superior heat distribution for even cooking without heat spots and has incredible conductivity, which allows you to cook easily on low to medium heat, reducing your energy costs. Another benefit of cast iron cookware is, it is induction compatible and great to use both on your stove and inside your oven.
Cast iron cookware a healthier option
Cast Iron cookware is seen as both a healthy and environmentally-friendly form of cookware for a variety of reasons. Firstly, cast iron is hard-wearing, meaning if properly used and looked after, it can last you decades with quality cooking results every time. This is great for the environment as it reduces the need to replace inferior or non-stick cookware that tends to wear on its performance after a few years. Cooking with raw cast iron is considered a healthy and natural way to cook as you can increase your iron consumption just by cooking with it as well as avoiding nasty chemicals that can come into contact with food when using inferior non-stick pans on too high heat. The natural non-stick of raw cast iron comes from a process called seasoning, which is where the cookware is coated with a thin layer of cooking oil that develops a non-stick patina. Cast Iron is also a low-tox form of cookware that ensures a safe cooking experience for everyone.
Types of cast iron cookware
Cast iron cookware is available in a range of options, below is a list of our most commonly purchased cast iron cookware;
Our Top Selling Cast Iron Skillets
When it comes to top-selling cast iron skillets, several notable options stand out.
- Lodge Logic Cast Iron Skillet 30cm: The Lodge Logic range is highly regarded for its exceptional quality and performance and is made in the USA. This skillet is a popular choice for both chefs and home cooks known for its durability and even heat distribution, making it a versatile tool for searing, frying, and baking. Being made from raw cast iron means that it can easily be used on any heat source including campfire.
- Lodge Blacklock Triple Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet 26cm: The Lodge Logic Blacklock range offers triple seasoned skillets for a natural non-stick finish with a unique combination of lightweight design and impressive heat retention. With a smooth cooking surface and excellent heat distribution, ensuring optimal cooking results, its no wonder the Lodge Blacklock Triple Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet is a highly popular choice for passionate cooks. While slightly more expensive than the Lodge Logic range, the Blacklock collection is also 25% lighter which may appeal to those who find cast iron to be cumbersome due to its weight.
- Pyrolux Pyrocast Skillet 25cm: For those seeking a more affordable cast iron skillet, the Pyrocast Skillet offers excellent value for money, boasting a pre-seasoned surface for easy release and superior heat retention. A great introduction to castiron for those on a budget.
- Le Creuset Signature Cast Iron Round Skillet 26cm: This round cast iron skillet stands out for its exceptional craftsmanship and vibrant enamel finish. With even heat distribution and a large cooking surface, it offers superb browning and searing capabilities. If you only cook small portions or meals for one, the Le Creuset Signature Cast Iron Round Skillet 20cm is a better option for you. These French-made enamelled cast iron pan also don't have to be seasoned these skillets and with their in a range of bright colour options, they also present beautifully when serving on the table.
The benefits of using a cast iron saucepan
Cast iron saucepans are known for their excellent heat retention and distribution properties, which allow for even cooking and simmering of delicate sauces. They are often preferred by chefs and home cooks for their durability, ability to withstand high temperatures, and their ability to develop a natural non-stick surface over time. Cast iron saucepans are versatile and can be used on various stovetops, including induction, as well as in the oven.
The best cast iron cookware brands
When it comes to choosing quality enamelled cast iron pots and pans within Australia, there are three brands that dominate the market. All of these brands produce their cast iron cookware in France and have earned themselves the reputation for being the best in quality and performance. These are:
Le Creuset has the largest range of cast iron cookware made in France. They also have the widest colour options available that can be combined with a range of other kitchenware of the same colour!
Staub is the most commonly used cast iron brand favoured by chefs globally. Their French ovens are famous for their dimpled interiors that collect moisture and continually baste food while cooking. The interiors are also porous to build up a non-stick patina from cooking oils with use.
Chasseur is made in the famous Invicta Foundry in France's Champagne-Ardenne region. The most affordable of the three without compromising on cooking results, Chasseur has become popular in Australia, used in many hotels around the globe and has even earned the endorsement of celebrity chef, Manu Feildel.
Enamelled cast iron or raw cast iron options
Raw cast iron: If you are going camping or want to cook and sear on high heat, we recommend using a raw cast iron frypan as it can handle the temperatures and are suitable for cooking on barbecues or direct fire like campfires. Lodge Cast Iron Cookware is our most used and highly rated raw cast iron cookware from our customers.
Enamelled cast iron: If you want the convenience of not having to season your cast iron pans regularly, as well as enjoying some bright colours, we recommend enamelled cast iron. Enamelled cast iron provides the benefit of a colourful, glass-like surface that provides two benefits. One is that it coats the iron to prevent it from rusting and the other is that it provides you with a smooth and natural non-stick surface to cook on. The only thing to be aware of is that you will need to only use a low to medium heat to cook on otherwise, you will damage the enamel exterior.
Seasoning cast iron pans
Seasoning your raw cast iron cookware will help to increase its longevity and cooking performance ensuring they develop and maintain its natural, non-stick patina. The seasoning process involves heating and spreading a thin layer of cooking oil to the your cast iron frying pan or skillet regularly. Enamelled cast iron cookware does not require seasoning as the enamel coatings protect the cast iron from rusting.
Other kitchen accessories to consider when buying a cast iron pan:
FAQs
What are the advantages and disadvantages of cast iron?
The benefits of owning a cast iron pan or pot is that cast iron provides even heat distribution which can cook food evenly every time. Cast iron also retains heat longer than any other cookware so your dishes stay hot for hours—perfect for comforting winter-warming meals like stews and curries. With the proper care, your hard-wearing cast iron cookware can also last a lifetime. The disadvantage of cast iron cookware is that this type of cookware can be relatively heavy, making it unsuitable for those with weak wrists or a weak grip. It also takes longer to heat up. Raw cast iron cookware requires consistent seasoning. Without the proper care, your cast iron cookware can lead to rusting.
Is cast iron cookware suitable for induction?
Yes! Cast iron cookware works well on induction cooktops because it is constructed with a conductive metal allowing the electromagnetic field to be transferred directly to the pan itself. This makes cast iron cookware a great option for induction cooking.
What is the best way to clean enamel cast iron cookware?
Wash your enamelled cast iron cookware with warm water and liquid dish soap with a soft sponge or nylon brush. Avoid using scrubbing excessively or using abrasive steel wool on the enamel interior to prevent scratching the interior surface. Cleaning enamelled cast iron cookware should be easy as it's basically non-stick. However, there will be times when stubborn food bits get stuck to your pan. Soaking your enamelled cast iron cookware with warm water and a few drops of dish soap or baking soda overnight may do the trick.
