The Benefits of Cooking with Cast Iron

Cast iron is one of the most versatile and durable cooking tools on the market, and yet many people are hesitant to make the change from their stainless-steel pans and skillets. After all, the process of seasoning cast iron and the weight of the pan itself can be rather intimidating.
 
            However, the advantages of cooking with cast iron far outweigh the disadvantages. Here are ten benefits that are sure to convince you to try out cast iron for your next meal:
 

1. Cast iron has a n incredibly long life span and is extremely durable. There’s a reason that cast iron can be found in almost any antique store you visit, and many people use cast iron pans that have been passed down from their parents or grandparents.
2. Compared to stainless-steel cookware, cast iron is often just a fraction of the cost.
3. Cast iron is completely non-toxic and chemical-free unlike most nonstick pans which can contain harmful perfluorocarbons.
4. Every time you cook with cast iron, you are making the pan better by seasoning it. Cast iron is one of the only pieces of kitchenware that noticeably improves over time and with heavy use.
5. Cast iron becomes naturally nonstick after its initial seasoning and eliminates the need for oil and butter, which will make your foods lower in fat.
6. A small amount of iron will actually absorb into the food you are cooking, which is a major health benefit. Many people suffer from an iron deficiency, and cooking with cast iron can help increase a person’s iron content by as much as 20 times.
7. Cast iron holds heat for a considerable amount of time and is therefore great for keeping food warm.
8. The versatility of cast iron makes it suitable for many cooking methods such as frying, baking, searing, roasting, slow-cooking, and sauteing.
9. Cast iron can be used both on the stove, in the oven, or over the campfire.
10. Cast iron is easy to clean and requires little maintenance. Simply rinse with water and dry it thoroughly after each use.

 
You can find cast iron cookware and other kitchen items at your local Co-op. For more content like this, check out the latest issue of the Cooperator.