I have a confession to make….until three years ago I was terrified to cook in cast iron. I would hear so many things about what you couldn’t do with them and how cooking in it was completely opposite than cooking in nonstick skillets that I just steered clear of them. Don’t get me wrong my Grandmother cooked with cast iron all the time and I would watch her wondering what was so special about this heavy and hot pan. I mean come on cast iron and Grandmas pretty much go together, right?!

I then started seeing more and more videos on social media cooking in it and I came across Ashley Johnson @hiaj.eats on Instagram. She explained everything about cast iron so easily that I decided I would take the leap and buy my first cast iron skillet. And I never looked back.

So, I thought why not pass that love on to others who may be hesitant like I was and break down the basics of cast iron. In this guide to cooking with cast iron, we’ll talk about its impressive benefits, proper care and cleaning, the pros and cons, and reveal why it’s the perfect piece for cooking over the fire.

History

Cast iron has been a constant in kitchens for centuries, and you can easily see why. This cookware material boasts heat retention, durability, and charm that adds flavor to any dish. Cast iron’s story begins long ago, in China, where its creation revolutionized cooking. It found its way to European kitchens in the 18th century for kings and commoners alike. Today, it has earned a permanent place in kitchens everywhere.

Benefits

1. Unparalleled Heat Retention: Cast iron’s dense composition ensures even heat distribution, making it ideal for slow-cooked dishes and achieving the perfect sear on steaks.
2. Durability that Outlasts Generations: Unlike other cookware, cast iron only gets better with age. Pass it down as a cherished family heirloom and watch it become a symbol of culinary tradition.
3. Versatile in the Kitchen: Whether you’re baking, frying, sautéing, or grilling, cast iron can do it all. From fluffy cornbread to golden pancakes, it’s a multi-purpose wonder.
4. Non-Stick without Chemicals: A well-seasoned cast iron surface develops a natural non-stick coating, eliminating the need for chemical-laden alternatives. Say goodbye to synthetic sprays and hello to guilt-free cooking!

Cleaning and maintaining

Cleaning cast iron doesn’t have to be a daunting task. It’s actually pretty easy….(trust me this is very easy)

1. Skip the Soap: Unlike other pans, cast iron prefers to be handled with care. Simply use hot water, a gentle scrub brush, and elbow grease to remove food residue. Now this is one has mixed feelings about it. Some people say never use it and others have said it doesn’t affect cast iron. I personally have done both ways and I haven’t had any problems with my cast iron. So I say it’s up to you how you want approach this step. If I have any stuck on pieces I will put a little bit of water in it to just cover the bottom and set it on a hot burner. This will loosen everything and makes it extremely easy to clean it.
2. Season It Right: After washing, ensure the pan is thoroughly dried and lightly coat it with a vegetable oil or melted shortening. Pop it in the oven at a low temperature for an hour to let the oil work its magic and form a protective layer. I will dry it and well as I can by hand and then set it on a hot burner on the stove while I use Crisco wiping the entire piece down with it. Wiping out the excess and then place it inside the oven to cool back down. I only oil it and place it in a hot oven if I notice food is starting to stick which means it needs to be “seasoned”. Which what this process is called.
3. Storage is Key: Store your cast iron in a dry place to prevent rust. If you need to stack multiple pieces, place a paper towel between them to avoid any potential damage. This works perfectly for me and is perfect for storage.

PROS:

• Exceptional heat retention and even heat distribution.
• Versatile for various cooking methods and recipes.
• Long-lasting and can be passed down through generations.

CONS:

• Requires proper care and maintenance to prevent rust and preserve the seasoning.
• Relatively heavy compared to other cookware options, which may require some strength to handle.
• Initial seasoning process can be time-consuming, but the long-term benefits outweigh the effort.
• Not suitable for acidic foods, as they can strip away the seasoning and react with the iron.

COOKING OVER FIRE:

There’s something magical about cooking over an open flame, and cast iron is the perfect companion for this. Whether you’re camping, grilling in the backyard, or enjoying a bonfire on the beach, cast iron brings a touch of nostalgia and flavor to your meals. From hearty campfire chili to sizzling skewers of marinated meat, the even heat distribution of cast iron ensures perfectly cooked dishes every time. Just remember to bring oven mitts, as that handle gets hot! I learned this the hard way long ago as a child.

So, why should you choose cast iron for your fire-side recipes? Well, cast iron’s heat retention means you can place it directly on the fire or hot coals, creating a consistent cooking temperature. It’s sturdy enough to handle the flames and won’t warp or buckle under the heat. Plus, cast iron’s natural non-stick surface makes flipping burgers and flipping pancakes a breeze, even over an open fire. We have loved cooking with it over the fire pit so much that we have made it a Friday night staple.

The crackling flames, the smoky aroma, and the sizzling sound of food hitting the hot surface create an ambiance that can’t be replicated indoors.

In conclusion, cast iron is the unsung hero of culinary world. Its rich history, incredible benefits, and timeless charm make it a must-have in every kitchen. So grab your cast iron skillet (if you don’t have one now is the time to start your collection), gather around the fire, and let your mind wander deciding what you’re going to cook first.