![]() However, many people have enjoyed cast iron for generations, and thanks to its durability, you can ensure that your pan will be long-lasting.Īlternatively, carbon steel pans are a standard tool in professional kitchens since they can perform many of the same functions of cast iron while also doing more. Caring for your cast iron pan can take some work, and you have to be careful not to allow water to sit on the pan to prevent rust. Thanks to its heat retention, you can sear and cook anything so long as it isn’t too acidic. Andreas von Einsiedel/Alamy Which is better? Carbon steel or cast iron frying pans?ĭepending on your needs, cast iron and carbon steel are both remarkable materials for your kitchen pans.Ĭast iron is a great all-around kitchen tool that allows you to cook on the stovetop, in the oven, or on the grill. A few layers will result in a light brown stain on your carbon steel and provide a slippery coating for your foods. You can often apply a thin layer of oil and heat the pan on the stovetop to burn on the natural coating. How to care for carbon steelĭepending on manufacturer instructions, seasoning a carbon steel pan can look similar or different from seasoning a cast iron pan. However, since carbon steel also requires seasoning to create a non-stick coating, it is recommended to avoid cooking acidic foods. Additionally, unlike cast iron, cooking eggs, omelets, and fish is made easy thanks to the smooth, non-stick surface of carbon steel.Ĭarbon steel is well-known for its ability to heat quickly and retain its temperatures, allowing for a more even sear on foods. Since carbon steel pans are lightweight and easy to carry, they are perfect for sautéing and tossing vegetables or stir fry. ![]() Great for cooking eggs, fish, and sautéed veggies Unfortunately, carbon steel has the ability to rust and corrode, unlike stainless steel, requiring proper care to be long-lasting. While the pan is light to carry compared to the traditional cast iron, it is just as durable, making it an excellent cookware item. Due to its makeup, carbon steel is often less brittle than cast iron and is nearly half the weight. Instead, they contain two percent carbon, making them qualify as steel while still retaining a matte finish. Jaimieandkyleshootstock/Shutterstock What you need to know about carbon steel frying pansĬarbon steel frying pans are made with a higher concentration of iron than cast iron. Cooking with acidic foods can be challenging as well since the acid breaks down the layer of oil coating your pan, meaning your food may become slightly metallic in flavor. For some people, this extensive care can be deterring. Additionally, metal spatulas and harsh soaps can break down the oil coating that gives the cast iron pan its non-stick qualities. ![]() It’s also important to remember that cast iron pans should never drip-dry otherwise, they will rust. ![]() The advantage of this is that you can avoid the harsh chemicals that come with non-stick pans that use a synthetic coating like Teflon. Apply a coat of light oil and bake in the oven to create a natural non-stick coating. Seasoning a cast iron pan is fairly simple. ![]() However, many chefs favor these pans since they can use them in many other situations, including baking, grilling, and broiling. While cast iron pans are durable kitchenware, they are also quite heavy, making it difficult to sauté vegetables or maneuver around the kitchen. While they take longer than other pans to heat up, they can reach higher temperatures, making them great for the stovetop or the oven. Bake, braise, or roast with your cast iron panĬast iron pans are well known for their versatility and ability to retain heat. ![]()
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