Cast-Iron Cookware

Cast-iron cookware is a great tool in the kitchen. It has several strengths:

• High heat retention
• Even heat distribution
• Naturally non-stick
• Cheap
• Adds iron to the diet

The heat distribution and retention make cast-iron a great option for anything from frying eggs to baking cornbread. Cast-iron can be used on a stovetop, in the oven, or even over a grill.

The non-stick properties of cast-iron come from 'seasoning'. Seasoning cast-iron involves bonding fats to the surface the cookware. This can be intentionally to speed up the process or it also does it all by itself with regular use. To maintain seasoning, wash cast-iron while it still hot with nothing but a brush and water.

The last bullet is not a joke. Cast-iron cookware actually leaches small amounts of iron into your food. This can be a benefit for those with low levels of iron.

Lodge Cookware is an American company founded in 1896 that still makes cast-iron cookware. They are still family owned and produce their bare cast-iron cookware in the USA.

So, next time you order a breakfast skillet at 3:00am, stop to appreciate the magic of cast iron cookware.