When buying a cast iron skillet, consider the time and energy you want to put into it. New skillets are cheaper but require seasoning, while old ones are expensive but already seasoned. Decide which option works best for you and your budget.
There are a few things to consider when buying a cast iron skillet. Unlike other types of cookware, these cookware usually only get better with age. Choosing which type to buy depends not only on your budget, but also on the time and energy you want to put into your cookware. Buying a new cast iron skillet will typically be cheaper than buying an old one, but it can take several months for the skillet to properly season and decades for it to reach the caliber of older skillets. If you want to skip all of that, you can purchase the latter, although this option can be expensive.
Cast iron skillets are seasoned or rubbed with oil and heated to a high temperature, in order to create a natural non-stick coating on the pan. You can purchase a new seasoned or unseasoned cast iron skillet. If you want to do all the work yourself and have control over what type of oil is used to flavor the pan, go for the unseasoned variety. If you want to shorten the process, choose a factory-seasoned skillet. Even if you buy a pre-seasoned pan, however, it will need to be seasoned several times after you get it home, as the factory supplies only a very thin layer of seasoning that cannot withstand high temperatures.
Old cast iron skillets are often passed down from generation to generation. Decades of seasoning and care can produce a nonstick coating that rivals even the best nonstick cookware on the market. These pans can be purchased from antique stores, flea markets, and even garage sales if you’re lucky enough to find one. Well-maintained skillets can put a dent in your wallet, but they can be used right away and typically already have the many layers of seasoning you want in a cast iron skillet, unlike new ones.
The main thing you should consider when buying this type of cookware is the amount of time and energy you want to put into the pan. A new one requires you to rub the pan with oil and heat it in the oven for at least an hour until it starts to smoke. This process should then be repeated three or four times before pan cooking and after each cleaning for several months after purchase to create a good coating. While the end result is definitely worth it, this can be time consuming.
A new pot may also be limited in its uses for up to one year after purchase. A large amount of seasoning is needed before the pan can be used for sauces or even baking recipes. An old cast iron skillet can handle these cooking methods from the moment you bring it home. Before making a purchase, consider all the pros and cons of each type of pan and decide which one will work best for you. Whichever route you choose, a good cast iron skillet can be a great addition to almost any kitchen.
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