Similarly, sear the outer edges of a meatloaf before depositing the skillet in the oven to bake, per a specific recipe. Burgers cooked on cast iron will also develop a crispy, delicious crust along the entire outer surface - not just the grill rack. [4] X Research source Larger steaks will admittedly fit better on a grill, but you can cut them into smaller portions to fit into your skillet. [5] X Research source
More specifically, your veggies will get that perfect, golden hue and crispy exterior layer by coming into direct contact with the steadily high heat of a cast iron surface.
Watch out cooking scrambled eggs or frittatas on cast iron, as they are more likely to stick than other dishes.
Since cast iron excels at evenly distributing heat (once heated), the surface is perfect for creating an evenly-textured crust on baked goods generally. [9] X Research source
As a caveat, cast iron skillets offer perhaps the best way to blacken the outer edge of a cut of fish while leaving the inside moist and tender. Preheat the skillet for a full five minutes on a constant flame before putting the fish in the pan. You can perfectly sear scallops in this manner as well. [13] X Research source
If you want to cook both savory and sweet dishes regularly, consider getting separate cast iron skillets for each purpose. You can make one work, but be sure to give a solid salt-scrub and a re-seasoning before baking something after a differently-flavored dish.
Never allow your skillet to soak. In short, scour, rinse, and dry the pan as soon as is convenient after cooking. Use steel wool only to remove any coating that becomes sticky, or to remove any rust deposits as soon as they develop. Re-season the pan in these scenarios. If you’re serving directly from the skillet, be sure to clean it immediately following your meal. Never allow anything wet, such as a fruit pie or frittata, to be served from the skillet. Transfer the food to another dish and wash the skillet immediately. [17] X Research source
Designate one of your kitchen towels to be used exclusively to dry your cast iron. This will prevent other towels from getting heavily smudged, and will ensure you’re not dirtying your pan with unknown towel contaminants.
Apply a film of fatty material - ideally flaxseed oil - to the entire surface of the pan, inside and out. Bake the pan at 350˚ for one hour, with foil or a baking pan on the rack beneath it to catch drips. Allow the pan to cool completely in the oven. A teaspoon of flaxseed oil is plenty for a 10-12in (25-30cm) skillet. Apply whenever the skillet looks visibly dry. [22] X Expert Source Dorrenda SmithPersonal Chef Expert Interview. 26 October 2021.
Always let the skillet cool to room temperature - in part to absorb any added oil - before putting it away. [24] X Research source
