Is it worth buying an expensive cast iron pan?

When comparing cast-iron skillets, lighter is typically considered better, even if only from a convenience standpoint; when comparing cast-iron skillets to skillets made of other stuff, the weight is its moneymaker and the reason we still cook with them.

Are more expensive cast iron pans better?

1. They're all essentially the same. No matter how high or low the price, all of these brands are made of the same thing: mainly molten iron and steel. And, like Lodge, many of these brands are made in the USA.

Is there a difference in quality of cast iron pans?

Are all cast iron skillets the same? Every cast iron skillet heats evenly and retains heat well, but not all makes and models are created equal. Some have traditional designs, and others have distinct shapes and handles. Some are pre-seasoned, and others require you to season them yourself.

Why is cast iron cookware so expensive?

Cast iron cookware is expensive because the raw material cost is high. Besides it, the effort needed in manufacturing and maintaining it is high compared to any other cookware. As a result, their shelf life is longer. Cast iron products are worth it because of their functionality, versatility, and durability.

Why is Lodge cast iron so cheap?

They're made locally. The fact that Lodge skillets are manufactured in the USA helps, too. Cast iron is heavy and it's cheaper to ship to stores and shoppers from Tennessee than China. A fun plus to being made in America is that the company creates lots of jobs for locals.

Cast Iron Buying Advice | Everything You Should Know

How do you pick a good cast iron skillet?

And you can immediately tell the difference. A newish cast iron pan feels rough to the touch. A well-seasoned one is so slick that eggs will slide around on it just like in a nonstick pan. Though most new cast iron comes pre-seasoned, there are typically only one or two layers of seasoning on there.

How much is a good quality cast iron skillet?

A good cast iron skillet doesn't have to be expensive. On average, 8″ skillets retail for $15, 10-10.25″ skillets for $22.5, and their larger, family-sized, 12″ and 13.25-14″ counterparts for $30-$40.

What you should not cook in cast iron?

Is it OK to boil water in cast iron?

Yes, you can boil water in cast iron. To keep the layer of seasoning intact, don't boil water for more than 10 to 15 minutes. You can heat water to a gentle boil or simmer dishes for over 15 minutes – sometimes up to an hour. Be extra careful with acidic dishes like tomato sauce.

Does the brand of cast iron matter?

I agree with you that the quality of a cast iron skillet is likely to be of little difference between brands. Certainly casting iron is a lower tech manufacturing process than a copper and stainless steel skillet, for instance.

Is rough or smooth cast iron better?

According to some manufacturers, the modern rough surface cast iron pots and pans helps the seasoning oils to adhere better than a smooth finish would. Smooth cast iron does not sell well commercially compared to rough iron.

What is the most valuable cast iron skillet?

The value of antique cast iron skillets can start at similar to new prices, but a super rare Wagner or Griswold can fetch up to $1,500 apiece. A mint condition, super rare "spider skillet" made in the 1890s by Griswold is worth up to $8,000.

Why is Griswold cast iron so expensive?

Griswold cast iron is highly collectible

And this makes the ironware fun to collect for collectors and enthusiasts. So when a rare piece or size comes up for sale, it will attract the attention of many buyers and ultimately drive up the price.

Is expensive cast iron worth it Reddit?

The casting is higher quality, the finish is better, and they feel better to use for me personally (feels better to spatulate a smooth surface to me, and they don't shred paper towels like Lodge). Worth it? Totally preference.

Can you fry eggs in a cast iron skillet?

With a few simple tricks to choose the right oil and get your pan to that just-right temperature, you'll get eggs with crispy edges and runny yolks every time (if that's your jam). But don't worry, cast iron makes the perfect egg no matter how you like them done!

Can I use butter in my cast iron pan?

Yes, you can cook with butter in your cast iron skillet or Dutch oven. Keep in mind that butter burns at temperatures above 350°F (177°C), so you shouldn't use high heat when you're frying foods with it. Either turn down the heat or substitute it with an oil that has a higher smoke point.

Can you ruin a cast iron pan?

Famously durable, these pans are often passed down through generations. With proper reseasoning care, years of frequent use can actually improve the pan's “seasoning”—its natural nonstick coating. But sadly, cast iron skillets can indeed break.

How long do cast-iron pans last?

A cast-iron skillet will last a lifetime and more if you look after it properly. Make sure it is seasoned before you use it. Dry it thoroughly after use and wipe it over with oil before you put it away. To protect it from cracking, heat it gently and cool it down naturally.

Are Le Creuset pans worth it?

So, is Le Creuset worth it? The short answer is yes. Le Creuset is worth it because it's more durable, beautiful, and performs better than the competition. Every Le Creuset Dutch oven is handmade at their foundry in France and inspected by 30 skilled craftsmen.

Is vintage cast iron better?

However, according to many people who love cast iron, vintage pans are far superior to modern ones (vintage, in this case, being defined as any pan made pre-1950). Many cast-iron aficionados swear that older is definitely better—better as in more durable, conducts heat more evenly, and withstands arduous conditions.

What is the first thing you do when you buy a cast iron skillet?

How often do you season cast iron pans?

Remember there's no need to use your best premium brand for seasoning! How often should I season my skillet? — To get the best out of your cast iron skillet, it's recommended that you oil it after each use. However, depending on how frequently you use it, 2-3 times a year is sufficient.

Which is better cast iron or enameled cast iron?

While enamel is useful in that it eliminates the pitted surface of cast iron where food can more readily get trapped and stick, it is not inherently nonstick and does not build up a seasoning. So each time you cook, you'll need a sufficient amount of fat to avoid stuck-on messes.

Why are Lodge pans so rough?

The entire concept of seasoning cast iron, which acts as a leveling agent so the proteins won't adhere to the pan, was a result of home cooks trying to fill in this new, rougher surface. The roughness that you feel on most modern cast iron is sand, which used to be removed during production.