Victor
Introduction
Cast Iron cookware has been around for hundreds of years with some accounts dating back to the 2nd century A.D. Even so, for the sake of this piece, we’re going to talk about the cast iron cookware that became more popular in use in the mid-to-late 1800s.
Thanks to the industrialization of the US, cast iron cookware became more prominent in the kitchen in US homes. Subsequently, different companies emerged to cast iron into cookware with Griswold, Wagner, and Lodge being a few of the most well-known.
Types of Cast Iron Cookware
Lodge is still operating today by family members, still producing a full line of cast iron cookware. Undoubtedly, Lodge is probably the most common name known to consumers with a full line of pre-seasoned and enamel-coated cast iron cookware.
Furthermore, enamel-coated cast iron is also a great addition to your cookware because you get some of the benefits of heat distribution and retention with a protective coating to cook and serve in.
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Different Brands
New manufacturers such as Smithey, Back Country Iron, and Lancaster, have come to the scene in recent decades to produce finer products similar to vintage manufacturers like Griswold and Wagner. Also, the Griswold cast iron pan was milled to be smooth on the surface and is highly sought after by collectors today. Unlike the more economical pans produced by Lodge and other manufacturers today.
I was given a vintage Griswold #6 as a gift at Christmas at work by a great friend, and it is one of my cherished cast iron pans. Unquestionably, it is one of my favorite pans because the bottom is as smooth as glass. And when I refinished and seasoned it, it was one of the best performers in my kitchen.
As a result, I think of the friend who gave it to me every time I use it. Therefore, if you are looking to give a gift to a cook you know, vintage or high-quality cast iron will never go unappreciated.
Cost and Quality
As you can tell, there are 2 tiers of cast iron cookware. Particularly, the higher-end cookware is milled to give it a smooth surface. While the more economical lines, although high in quality, perform a little differently. Due to their not-so-smooth surface, they need a little more skill and effort by the cook. But it’s not a deal breaker. Think of it like a car with a stick shift or one with an automatic transmission. They both get you there but one requires a little more skill to operate. And like cars, the automatic transmission costs more than the manual one.
In the long run, either type will last for generations and make great additions to the kitchen and family heirlooms. So don’t let the price tag of the high-end cast iron get you down. And, you can produce the same great food with the economical runs, and you’ll be a better cook for it. However, if you’re budget allows, you will love the smooth surface cast iron.
Conclusion
Without a doubt, cast iron cookware is an excellent choice for your equipment arsenal. As a result, It should be included like stainless steel and carbon steel cookware.
Cast iron cookware will outlast your lifetime and you can hand it down to children for generations. As a result, it is an excellent investment in cookware and will give you endless great meals to serve your family.
