Tool Tips Guide: Cast Iron Cookware

Step 4 Cooking with cast iron

Cast iron is very versatile. It can be used on the stove for frying, to sautee, to simmer, etc. You can bake with it in the oven for cakes, cookies and breads, and even on a grill or over a campfire.

Remember that cast iron distributes heat fairly evenly - even to the handle! Don't grab a bare handle if you are cooking with the piece as it will be just as hot as the pan itself. Use a towel, a potholder, a mitten or a glove - anything to protect yourself from a nasty burn.

Metal cooking tools suck as a fork or spatula should not be used often on cast iron as it will scrape away the seasoning or expose the bare metal which could lead to rust. Instead, try to use wooden tools as much as possible. Plastic should be avoided as well, since it can melt easily. But, if using metal cannot be avoided, just remember that is has the ability to scrape and remove the seasoning.

Comments

[jitsu_wan]

You know, although I think this is the weirdest instructable I have ever read, I must commend you on your very well proportioned expose on the use and care of cast iron crockery.

I do believe that us mortals here on the a** end of Africa (read South Africa - which is a country if you didnt know) also use cast iron pots, yet with a devious twist that might just save you from whipping on a glove like a paediatric nurse every time you want to cook some pasta.

The trick is (i believe) to get/make a wooden handle. Usually I would not suggest this to just anybody, but as you seem so passionate about your cast iron cookware, I would suggest: "A wooden handle, in two halves, that fit over the handle created by the cast iron. When riveted together, the half moon cylinders of wood provide a sturdy and comfortable handle, easily replaced when burnt or otherwise damaged."

Have a good day...
JW.

[CaptSteve]

The only problem with adding a wooden handle is that it prevents you from using the pan in the oven or on a campfire. I have bare handles on my pans and use a leather welding glove as a pot holder. Works great, prevents burns or singeing hair of my knuckles.