Tips for Cooking with Cast Iron Cookware Received as Gifts This Christmas

Christmas is the perfect time to receive those heavy, gorgeous pieces of cast iron cookware that promise years of hearty cooking. 

Whether it’s a well-seasoned skillet or a new enamelled Dutch oven, cast iron cookware is an enduring kitchen staple. However, to unlock its full potential, there are some key practices to master. 

Here are the best tips to help you cook like a pro with your new cast iron cookware! Which you can print off and present in a special festive folder with the cast iron cookware that you are gifting this Christmas.

1. Seasoning Your Cookware

If you’ve been gifted traditional, non-enamelled cast iron cookware, you’ll need to “season” it. Seasoning is a process of building up a layer of polymerised oil on the pan's surface, which helps create a natural non-stick layer and protects it from rust.

Initial Seasoning: Many new cast iron skillets come pre-seasoned, but adding an extra layer or two can improve performance. Rub a small amount of oil (like flaxseed or vegetable oil) over the cookware, then place it upside down in the oven at 180°C for an hour. Make sure to line the lower rack with foil to catch any drips.

Regular Seasoning: Every so often, repeat this oiling and baking process. The more you cook with cast iron, especially with oils, the better its natural seasoning will develop.

2. Cooking Tips for Cast Iron

Cooking with cast iron isn’t quite the same as using stainless steel or non-stick pans. Here’s what to keep in mind:

Preheating: Cast iron takes a little while to heat up, but once hot, it retains heat like a charm. Preheat the pan for a few minutes on medium heat before adding your ingredients. This helps prevent food from sticking and allows for even cooking.

Avoid High Heat: Since cast iron holds heat so well, cooking on medium or low heat often gives the best results. High heat can cause food to stick and may burn the seasoning over time.

Use Oil or Butter: Cast iron needs a bit of fat to avoid sticking. Oils with high smoke points like canola or avocado oil work best, but a small dab of butter can also add lovely flavour.

3. Maintaining Your Cast Iron

Maintaining cast iron can seem intimidating, but it’s actually simple with a few good habits:

Cleaning: Avoid soap when possible; instead, use hot water and a brush or scraper. If you have some stubborn bits stuck, a sprinkle of coarse salt can work wonders as a scrub.

Drying Thoroughly: To prevent rust, always dry your cookware immediately after washing. You can pop it on the stove over low heat for a couple of minutes to make sure it’s completely dry.

Oil After Cleaning: Apply a very light layer of oil after each use to maintain the seasoning and protect the surface. Simply wipe a small amount of oil over the pan with a cloth or paper towel.

4. Best Foods to Cook in Cast Iron

The versatility of cast iron is part of its charm. Here are some top dishes to try:

Meat Searing: The even, high heat makes cast iron perfect for searing steaks, chops, and chicken.

Baking: From cornbread to cobblers and even pizzas, cast iron delivers a delightful crust that other cookware can’t quite achieve.

One-Pot Dishes: For those with enamelled cast iron, try slow-cooking stews, casseroles, and even pasta bakes in your Dutch oven.

5. What to Avoid

To prolong the life of your cast iron cookware, there are a few things you’ll want to avoid:

Avoid Cooking Acidic Foods: Acidic foods like tomatoes and citrus can strip seasoning, especially in new or less-seasoned pans. Once your pan is well-seasoned, you can cook some acidic ingredients for short periods, but avoid long simmering.

No Soaking: Cast iron rusts when exposed to prolonged moisture, so never leave it soaking in water.

Dishwasher Use: Cast iron should be hand-washed only; the dishwasher is too harsh for its seasoning.

6. Enjoy the Versatility

One of the greatest benefits of cast iron is its versatility. You can take it from the hob to the oven, to the barbecue or even over an open fire. Just remember, the handle will get very hot, so always have a tea towel or oven mitt handy.

Closing Thoughts

Your new cast iron cookware is much more than a cooking tool; it’s a potential heirloom that, with care, can be passed down for generations. By understanding its quirks and following these tips, you’ll be able to bring out its best, ensuring delicious meals and memorable cooking experiences all year round. Enjoy your Christmas gift, and happy cooking!