Cast Iron Cookware: History, Benefits, and How to Use It

Cast iron cookware has been a staple in kitchens for centuries, and for good reason. Known for its durability, versatility, and even heat distribution, cast iron is a timeless kitchen essential. From skillets to Dutch ovens, cast iron cookware offers a variety of options to elevate your cooking. Let’s dive into the rich history of cast iron, explore its benefits, and cover the basics of cleaning, storing, and cooking with this traditional cookware. Plus, we’ve included a simple recipe to get you started!

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A Brief History of Cast Iron

Cast iron has been used for cooking since the Han Dynasty in China around 220 AD, when it was originally created by pouring molten iron into sand molds. Cast iron cookware became popular in Europe in the 16th century and quickly spread to the Americas, where early settlers relied on it for its versatility and durability. By the 18th century, cast iron skillets and Dutch ovens were common in households and open-fire cooking became part of the American culinary tradition.

Today, cast iron is enjoying a resurgence as home cooks rediscover its value and durability. Passed down through generations, cast iron cookware is often considered an heirloom piece that tells a story with each meal it cooks.

The Benefits of Cooking with Cast Iron

Cast iron offers numerous benefits that make it a favorite for home cooks and chefs alike:

1. Even Heat Distribution: Cast iron heats evenly and retains heat well, which is ideal for frying, baking, and searing.

2. Durability: Properly maintained, cast iron can last for decades—many even say it gets better with age!

3. Natural Nonstick Surface: With regular use and seasoning, cast iron develops a natural nonstick surface that enhances cooking without the need for chemicals.

4. Versatility: You can use cast iron on the stovetop, in the oven, on the grill, or over an open flame, making it one of the most versatile pieces of cookware.

5. Health Benefits: Cooking with cast iron can add small amounts of iron to your food, which is beneficial for those with iron deficiencies.

The Denman Homestead tip: Cast iron’s weight and durability make it perfect for cooking outdoors, too, whether you’re camping or enjoying a backyard cookout.

Types of Cast Iron Cookware

Cast iron cookware comes in a variety of shapes and sizes, each suited to different types of cooking:

- Cast Iron Skillet: The most popular piece, cast iron skillets are ideal for frying, sautéing, and searing. Skillets come in different sizes, typically ranging from 6 to 12 inches.

- Dutch Oven: A heavy, deep pot with a lid, Dutch ovens are perfect for slow cooking, braising, and baking. They’re versatile enough to make soups, stews, bread, and even casseroles.

- Griddle: A flat or slightly ridged surface, a cast iron griddle is perfect for pancakes, bacon, and burgers. It provides a large surface for grilling or making breakfast items.

- Cast Iron Grill Pan: With raised ridges, grill pans mimic the effect of outdoor grilling, adding char marks to meat and vegetables.

- Cast Iron Wok: A newer addition to cast iron cookware, woks are perfect for stir-fries and high-heat cooking, delivering even heat to the entire surface.

Techniques for Cooking with Cast Iron

Cast iron is versatile, but it does require specific techniques for the best results:

- Preheat Your Pan: Always preheat cast iron before adding food. This ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.

- Use Oil or Fat: Add a small amount of oil or fat, which further prevents sticking and enhances flavor.

- Avoid Overcrowding: For perfect searing or browning, avoid overcrowding the pan. Leave enough space for steam to escape, allowing food to brown properly.

- Bake and Braise with Confidence: Because cast iron can withstand high temperatures, it’s perfect for oven baking and braising. Just be sure to use oven mitts, as the handles get very hot!

How to Clean and Store Cast Iron

Caring for cast iron is simple once you know the basics.

Cleaning

1. After Cooking: While the pan is still warm, use a spatula or paper towel to wipe out excess food.

2. Washing: Rinse with warm water and scrub gently with a brush or sponge. Avoid using soap or harsh scrubbers.

3. Drying: Thoroughly dry the pan to prevent rust. Place it on low heat for a minute or two to evaporate remaining moisture.

4. Re-seasoning: After drying, apply a thin layer of oil to the pan’s surface. Wipe off any excess oil with a paper towel to avoid a sticky residue.

Storing

Store cast iron in a dry place. If stacking with other pans, place a paper towel or cloth between each piece to prevent scratching.

The Denman Homestead tip: With proper seasoning, your cast iron’s nonstick surface will improve over time, making it more enjoyable to cook with.

A Simple Recipe: Cast Iron Skillet Cornbread

Cornbread is a classic recipe that highlights the even cooking and crisp edges that cast iron skillets are known for. Here’s a simple, crowd-pleasing recipe:

Ingredients:

- 1 cup cornmeal

- 1 cup all-purpose flour

- 1/4 cup sugar (optional, for a slightly sweet cornbread)

- 1 tbsp baking powder

- 1/2 tsp salt

- 1 cup buttermilk (or regular milk with 1 tbsp vinegar added)

- 1/4 cup melted butter (plus more for the skillet)

- 1 large egg

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place a cast iron skillet inside to heat.

2. Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, mix the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, melted butter, and egg.

3. Combine and Pour: Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined.

4. Heat the Skillet: Remove the skillet from the oven and add a small pat of butter, swirling to coat the pan.

5. Bake: Pour the batter into the hot skillet and return it to the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden and a toothpick comes out clean.

6. Serve Warm: Slice and serve warm with butter or honey.

The Denman Homestead tip: A hot skillet gives the cornbread a beautifully crispy crust, while keeping the inside soft and fluffy.

Embrace the Versatility of Cast Iron

From searing steaks to baking bread, cast iron cookware is versatile, long-lasting, and naturally nonstick when properly cared for. Its rich history and adaptability have kept it in kitchens for centuries, and with the right care, it can continue to serve as a family heirloom for generations to come.

We hope this guide inspires you to try cooking with cast iron. Whether you’re searing, baking, or braising, cast iron is an investment that will pay off in both flavor and durability. Happy cooking from all of us at The Denman Homestead!