Do you cook with cast iron? Is it the hassle everyone says it is?
I've been thinking about getting into cast iron cooking. I need a new skillet, and I've seen recommendations for cast iron, but some things seem daunting: Seasoning. How bad is it really? Did you...
I've been thinking about getting into cast iron cooking. I need a new skillet, and I've seen recommendations for cast iron, but some things seem daunting:
- Seasoning. How bad is it really? Did you purchase a pre-seasoned pan and just cook with it? Do you re-season occasionally? How often? What oil do you use? What is your process?
- Cleaning. How do you clean your skillet? Soap and water? How do you know when you are done cleaning? What materials do you use?
- Unknowns. What did you not know until you started cooking with cast iron? Any surprise benefits/costs?
Have any of you used cast iron, then returned to Teflon or stainless steel after being disappointed in the experience? What are the biggest differences between cooking with cast iron and other materials?
Considering that non-stick manufacturing poses environmental risks, and iron may provide a net positive effect for folks needing more iron in their diet, it seems like this is a natural way to go.