Baking biscuits in cast iron is a Southern tradition.
Cast-iron skillets are now available in a wide variety of shapes and sizes designed to meet just about any frying or saut ing need. The smallest pans, measuring just 5 inches in diameter, are ideal for single-person households or small cooking tasks, while the largest 20-inch skillets are capable of handling enough food for a crowd.
Available Sizes
Round cast-iron skillets are measured across the top, from left to right, which gives a diameter size in inches. Available sizes include 5, 6 1/2, 8, 9, 10 1/4, 12, 13 1/4, 15 1/2 and 20 inches. The 5-inch pan has a depth of 1 inch, the 6 1/2-inch pan depth is 1 1/4 inches, and 8- and 9-inch pans measure 1 3/4 inches deep. The larger round skillets measure 2 to 3 inches deep, with some models equipped with an assist handle. The largest square cast-iron skillets measure roughly 10 inches, with some available as ridged grill pans. Lids are also available to fit larger skillets.
Manufacturers
Lodge cast-iron cookware is found in most department, hardware and cooking specialty stores. Standard-sized skillets are available separately or as part of cookware sets that also include a Dutch oven and griddle. The largest skillets are usually only sold separately. Other lesser-known cast-iron skillet manufacturers include Griswold, Wagner, Olvida and Cajun. Manufacturers such as Le Creuset carry lines of enameled or porcelain-coated cast-iron skillets measuring to 10 inches in diameter.
Using Cast Iron
Cast iron heats evenly and maintains its heat longer than other types of pans. Skillets are versatile, going from stovetop to oven with no ill effects. The largest 20-inch pan is the ideal choice for frying chicken, as it provides enough space to avoid the overcrowding that usually results in uneven cooking. The 9-or 10-inch pan, ideal for cooking bacon and eggs, can also be used to bake cornbread, biscuits, cakes and even pies.
Considerations
Seasoning cast iron keeps food from sticking during cooking. While preseasoned cast-iron skillets are now available, some cooks still prefer to season their own. Bare cast iron is just that--bare uncoated metal; if not seasoned properly, food sticks and the pans are a chore to clean. To season a new skillet, run some clear hot water in it to remove any dust or factory residues. Wipe completely dry with a clean cloth. Using paper towels, rub some good-quality vegetable oil inside the pan along the bottom and up the sides. Place it in a warm oven for about three hours. The oil will bake slowly into the metal and seal the pores. Repeat the process any time food starts sticking to your skillet.
Tips and Warnings
If left unused too long, cast iron can rust over time. This is easily remedied by rubbing rusty areas with fine-grit sandpaper and washing the pan thoroughly with hot water before reseasoning. Don't put cast-iron skillets in the dishwasher. Avoid using them for cooking foods such as tomato sauces, as the acids in the tomatoes may eat into the finish.
Related posts
A clean saw surface reduces friction.Cast-iron saw tables offer a stable work surface for woodcutting. A neglected cast-iron work surface will accumulate rust, regardless of indoor conditions. The...
There are many types of coating used on cookware items, including skillets and pans.High quality cookware is not cheap and many cooks --- both professional and amateur --- often prefer cookware co...
Make Automatic Dishwasher DetergentThe cost of everything is rising these days, leading more and more people to get creative and find ways to save a buck. Some have reduced their amount of travel,...
A solar panel may appear to be too complicated to build for a garage or kitchen, but a crude solar panel can be made from a handful of ordinary tools, scrap parts, some copper sheeting, a leftover...
Your favorite bottle has the built-in cylinder shape of a water glass.Whether you admire the graceful arc in the thumbhold under your favorite wine bottle, or just want a way to reuse (or disguise...
