Cookware made of cast iron vs. Enamelled cast iron

Many people are surprised to learn that cast iron cookware comes in various styles.

If you’re attempting to figure out which skillets, pans, grills, or woks are best for your home, you’ve noticed that there are a lot of options on the list.

You may have decided that you want to start cooking using cast iron cookware, but you’re not sure where to begin.

In addition to determining whatever type of cookware you require, you must also determine what cookware is constructed of.

Enamelled cast iron, and cast iron are two of the most prevalent materials to choose from to simplify your kitchen further.

Cast iron cookware, both bare and uncoated, and enamelled cast iron cookware (or coated cast iron) have similar properties and advantages.

They are experiencing identical emotions. There are, however, several important distinctions between cast iron enamelled and cast iron.

There are a few important distinctions to bear in mind when buying cookware. In this post, we’ll go deeper into the realm of cast iron.

I’ll go over the advantages of both types of cookware (and the limitations).

Have you ever compared cast iron vs. enamelled cast iron? Which option is better for your kitchen?

Continue reading to learn more!

What is the definition of cast iron?

Let’s start with an explanation of what cast iron is. It’s a simple piece of cookware that’s thick, weighty, and substantial.

You may have already seen it.

Cast iron has also been used in households worldwide for hundreds of years because it performs well on open fires and in fireplaces.

Chefs continue to adore cast iron for its superior qualities.

A cast-iron skillet or cast-iron griddle is essential kitchen equipment for many people. They’re virtually unbreakable, and you can use them for cooking on a gas burner or in the microwave and take them while outdoor activities like camping.

Cast iron that has been enamelled is known as Enamelled Cast Iron.

It’s a more modern take on the heavy-duty cast iron that’s been around for decades.

An enamelled cast-iron pan is just a cast-iron pan with an enamel coating. Cast iron is covered with Enamel, which produces a beneficial protective covering on the surface of your equipment.

The Enamel protects your kitchen appliances from various contaminants, including rust.

It also provides a new dimension to your meal preparation, as Enamel cast iron is ideal for slow cooking. In the heated argument over enamelled cast iron vs. cast iron, there are many things to keep in mind, and we’ll get into more detail soon!

Cast Iron vs. Enamelled Cast Iron

Kitchenware made of uncoated cast iron has been used for hundreds of years.

Your grandmother may still use a cast-iron skillet today, as she did fifty years ago.

Classic cast iron cookware can last a lifetime if properly cared for. With conventional cast iron, I feel like I can cook practically anything.

However, the enamelled version may be the best option for very acidic foods like tomato sauce.

Leave your expensive enamel pots at home when you go on family outings.

Cast iron is ideal for making fajitas, cooking lunch, and scorching the perfect steak.

Enamelled cast iron is also weighty, which might be a bonus or a disadvantage depending on whether you have additional cookware plans, such as defence against an attacker.

If you don’t have a sandwich or panini press, use a prepared dutch oven or skillet. Enamelled cast iron often has a lesser heat conductivity than plain cast iron.

Chefs frequently use the time it takes to heat an enamel cast iron Dutch oven to complete other duties.

When it comes to the subject of “Should you use enamelled cast iron or cast iron?” I’ll walk you through the numerous qualities you should consider.

Design Comparison: Enamelled Cast Iron vs. Cast Iron

The enamelled cast iron has a sleeker, simpler appearance and a modern style. Cast iron isn’t as sleek as stainless steel, and it’s far from modern, but it has a classic, rustic, and long-lasting feel while cooking with it.

Enamel cast iron products appear to come in a wider range of colours and styles. It’s also good if you’re searching for variety to add a new touch to your kitchen. Only the traditional dark cast-iron cookware is available.

Rusting of Enamelled Cast Iron vs. Cast Iron

The most significant advantage of enamel products over non-enameled products is that they do not require seasoning.

A protective covering over the cast iron is required for seasoning. It’s done by heating the oil and letting the iron react with it. The bottom line is that Enamel does not require seasoning, but cast iron does.

If the seasoning starts to crumble, the pan may rust, especially if you wash it with water.

Enamel cookware does not require seasoning and does not rust. A protective coating should shape the Enamel, and you shouldn’t have to worry about it dissolving.

Cooking with Enamelled Cast Iron vs. Cast Iron

However, the major question is how well cast iron and enamelled cast iron cook food when used in the kitchen.

Both Enamelled Cast Iron and Cast Iron, in my opinion, are distinct in that they create a different experience. As previously indicated, cast iron must be seasoned.

Without this seasoning, a cast-iron pan isn’t nonstick. If it’s well seasoned, there’s no reason to be concerned.

Enamel cookware does not require seasoning and does not rust. A protective coating should shape the Enamel, and you shouldn’t have to worry about it dissolving.

However, as soon as the spice breaks down, the food will stick to the bottom of the pan and burn.

Enamelled cast iron cookware is nonstick and guarantees a considerably smoother cooking experience, however only at lower temperatures. Enamel performs well at low temperatures, but cast iron performs best at even higher temperatures.

Enamelled cast iron cookware would be ideal for your kitchen. If you prefer slow cooking, It’s perfect for slow-cooked stews and oven-baked casseroles. A standard cast iron pan would be best if you want to sear meats or stir-fry veggies with a lot of heat at high temperatures.

Strength of Enamelled Cast Iron vs. Cast Iron

Traditional cast iron is known for its toughness, and it’s always been a favourite choice among cooks looking for a long-lasting piece of cookware. If properly cared for, cast iron can last a lifetime. Enamelled cast iron is nearly as robust as its cast-iron forebears, but there is one major difference.

Even though, for example, the Enamel cast-iron skillet’s outer cast iron shell and handles are just as tough and durable as any cast iron counterpart. However, the inside enamel coating is not as long-lasting.

The Enamel covering is thin in comparison to raw cast iron. It’s possible to chip or scratch the Enamel, and dropping an enamel pan can be disastrous. Dropping cast iron on something other than what you drop it on would not be a problem.

Regular Cast Iron’s Benefits

Cast iron is a wonderfully long-lasting material.

Your cast-iron skillet can last for millennia if properly cared for. Enamelled cast iron is often more expensive than regular cast iron. A simple semi-stick surface is provided by the seasoning (or coating). Cast iron, as opposed to enamelled cast iron, provides several advantages.

Standard cast iron will add iron to your food, which is a great way to get this important component into your diet.

The following are the advantages of using a traditional cast iron pan in a nutshell:

• Nonstick by nature
• more cost-effective
• Tougher
• It’s possible to use it on the barbecue.

Regular Cast Iron’s Drawbacks

• When utilising traditional cast iron cookware, keep a few things in mind.

Regular Cast Iron Cleaning

Regular cast iron cookware should be cleaned after each use. To keep your cast iron cookware in better shape, avoid soaking it in water to prevent corrosion.

Fortunately, cast iron is easy to clean. Scrape some dirt off the pan with a cast-iron brush or a soft brush like a Tawashi and wash it.

Then only use a tea towel to dry. Regular cast iron can be used on the cooktop, the oven, or the grill. To ensure that my cast iron is dry, I usually return it to the flame.

Seasoning is required for cast iron.

Cast iron cookware develops a “seasoning” or coating that makes it non-stick by default. Seasoning eliminates rust and creates an easy-to-release finish. Cast iron cookware improves over time. Cast iron seasoning is simple to keep up with.

After washing, quickly coat the cookware with a thin layer of vegetable oil and heat it.

Before stacking your cast iron cookware, make sure it’s totally dry. Your cast iron cookware will rust if you keep it wet. Cast iron, on the other hand, may be repaired if it rusts.

Foods that are too acidic should be avoided.

The seasoning on your cast iron can be stripped by foods like lemon juice, tomato sauce, and vinegar. Cooking these things in cast iron can provide a metallic flavour to the food.

I hope you’ve found the information I’ve given you so far to be useful. I’ll go over all you need to know about this issue in the next section.

Things You Shouldn’t Cook in a Regular Cast Iron Cooking Pan

Foods that are too acidic should be avoided

The seasoning on your cast iron can be stripped by foods like lemon juice, tomato sauce, and vinegar. Cooking these things in cast iron can provide a metallic flavour to the food.

His list consists of standard cast-iron pans. You do not need to follow this list if you have an enamel-coated cast iron pan. Don’t be concerned. Prepare yourself!

Sticky Situations

It won’t be a problem till the pan is well-seasoned.

However, even though it is seasoned, there may be some issues. Even when the pan is brand new, sticky foods like eggs might struggle. Put them on a nonstick pan for a while unless you want brown eggs and a gunky pan.

Fish that is delicate

Save the delicate fish for the nonstick pan. On the other hand, a cast-iron pan is ideal for salmon and other meaty fish that can withstand the heat. I recommend trying a cast iron salmon recipe for deliciously crispy skin and flaky seafood.

Foods That Make You Smell

Garlic, peppers, shellfish, stinky cheeses, and other aromatic foods are more likely to leave your pan with an unpleasant aroma.

Because of these foods, the scent and taste of the next few things you cook in your cast iron will linger.

However, the aroma can be removed by baking for 10 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it is advisable to refrain from preparing items that will sabotage the next several cooking adventures.

Acidic things

There appear to be opposing viewpoints on this one.

Some people report that the metal will react with tomatoes or lemons, causing it to seep into the dish and break down the seasoning on the pan.

Others believe this is a misunderstanding. And if acidic food discolours the pan a little, a baking soda rinse will take care of it.

Enameled Cast Iron’s Benefits

Enamelled cast iron, as you may know, does not require seasoning.

Acidic foods cook well in the enamelled version, unlike regular cast iron skillets, and you can cook anything in it.

Standard cast iron can rust if exposed to water for an extended period.

You can immerse enamelled cast iron without having to be concerned about it being rusted.

Cast iron skillets come in various colours, yet they all appear the same.

On the other hand, Enamel comes in various beautiful colours, including white, blue, and red. Popular brands sell a variety of colours, and they all look fantastic.

Enamelled cast iron is versatile and may be used to roast, marinade, and chill food. Acidic and alkaline dishes can be cooked in an enamelled cast iron pot.

In a nutshell, here are the benefits of using an enamelled cast iron pan:

1. There is no need to season it.
2. It won’t rust and may be used to cook various foods.
3. It’s available in several colours.
4. Enamelled cast iron can be used in a variety of ways.
5. Prepare foods that are acidic and alkaline.

Enameled Cast Iron’s Downfalls

When utilising enamelled cast iron cookware, a few things to keep in mind.

Chipping on the inside

Compared to pre-seasoned cast iron, the porcelain glass covering or frit may be damaged. Be careful not to drop or smash the kitchenware.

The pan’s interior will chip if you use metal tongs or turners.

This can be accomplished by using wooden, nylon, or silicone implements.

Cost

• Enamelled cast iron pans are more expensive than traditional cast iron pans.

Heat Excess

It’s impossible to cook with an empty enamelled cast iron pan if it’s too hot. Unlike a conventional cast-iron skillet, which can be heated to a blistering temperature, an empty enamelled skillet may be damaged if heated too hot.

Stop using enamelled cast skillets for recipes that call for preheating the skillet to a high temperature before adding ingredients.

If you cook on high heat, the food will adhere to the pan.

It’s easier to use low or medium heat for enamelled cast iron. When searing meat, start with low heat and gradually increase the heat.

Which is easier to keep up with? (Enamelled Cast Iron or Cast Iron)

Enamelled cast iron cookware is much easier to maintain than normal cast iron cookware. For this reason, I prefer enamelled cast iron cookware to cast iron cookware.

You don’t need much practice when it comes to caring for it. You can’t even make a mistake.

However, one piece of advice from my end is to keep it. If you choose a normal cast iron pan, season it regularly. Kindly do not clean them with soap or detergent.

On the other hand, enamelled cast iron cleans up readily and does not require seasoning.

You may use as much soap and detergent as you like on Enamel, and you won’t have to worry about rust. If you’re concerned about hygiene, you can scrub an Enamel cast iron pan as much as you like.

Is Enameled Cast Iron’s Enamel Safe?

When discussing cast iron against Enamel, one key concern that frequently arises is health and safety.

Is there any enamelled cast iron that is healthy? Yes, there is a resounding yes.

When it comes to enamelled cast iron versus cast iron, enamel coating on your cookware is just as safe as bare cast iron. In truth, cooking is perfectly safe and does not pose any risks.

Enamel provides a stable coating, and the protective surface will not break down or cause harm until temperatures are extremely high.

In addition, Enamel will not react negatively to the food you’re cooking, making it a healthy alternative for your home kitchen.

If you’re still worried, the FDA considers Enamel safe for cooking.

However, keep in mind that because the pan is enamelled, your food will never come into direct contact with the cast-iron surface.

If you cook it directly on cast iron, your food will have higher iron content.

When choosing between an enamelled and a non-enameled cast iron pan, this is a key factor to consider for some chefs.

Your Kitchen’s Best Cast Iron Cookware

“What kind of cast iron kitchen equipment should you add to your home if you’ve decided that cast iron is for you?” individuals have asked. “How do I choose the best cast iron cookware?”

I’m betting you’re curious as well at this point. Fortunately, there is a large selection of excellent cast iron cookware to pick from, and you are likely to find a cast-iron cooking device that meets your demands.

Cast iron was commonly used to construct sturdy cooking pans. It might be left in the fire—on the skillet for an extended period.

In many ways, this tradition lives on, and a Dutch Oven is one of the best pieces of cast iron cookware you can own.

They are available in several sizes. You can use a normal cast iron pot in the oven, on the stovetop, or over a campfire. It’s clear how they were intended to be utilised in the first place.

Dutch ovens are great for slow-cooking stews or casseroles in the oven or for warming up a one-pot dinner while camping in the mountains.

Cast iron is commonly used for skillets, grills, and woks. If you’re looking for a pre-seasoned skillet, I’ve done a lot of research and hand-picked a few great ones. I don’t own all of these things, but I love them all.

Large Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet from Victoria Cookware

It’s worth noting that the Victoria Cookware Large Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet has excellent thermal retention.

The use of high-quality industrial iron casting ensures longevity. I recommend using the huge frying pan for the following:

Oven-to-table meals include cooking, baking, and grilling.

Keep your food warm for fifteen minutes or longer in this seasoned frying pan. In my opinion, the Victoria Cookware Large Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet is ideal for cooking in:

Ceramic Campfire Broiler Oven with Induction

Features

• In the twelve-inch wide cast iron bath, there is a higher transfer of heat and preservation.
• With a stronger grip, it’s curved, wider, and longer.
• Produced in Colombia with European cast iron equipment.
• Flavoured flaxseed oil that is 100 percent non-GMO.
• A fantastic natural, easy-release seasoning that improves with age.

Pros

• Multi-use
• It does not include PTFE, which could be harmful to your health.
• Increased efficiency
• Guaranteed for Life
• the seasoning that is ready to use
• Safe and adaptable
• Trace amounts of iron are naturally formed when cooking with a seasoned cast iron skillet, boosting the mineral in your diet.

Cons

• I noted that a few Amazon reviewers had dissatisfaction with the casting, which they described as “rough but not uniform.“On the other hand, this was not a problem with my Victoria Cookware Large Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet.

Utopia Kitchen’s Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet

Utopia is another great option if you’re looking for a new skillet.

I recommend hand washing and drying your Utopia Kitchen Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet before using it for the first time.

After each wash, use a little coat of vegetable oil to keep it looking good. Utopia sells a 12.5-inch skillet that is substantially larger than the Lodge and Victoria skillets.

However, I prefer businesses that produce their products.

The Utopia skillet is a good rival because it is one of the most reasonably priced cast iron skillets. Allow the Utopia Kitchen Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet to cool completely before washing it with a sponge in hot soapy water and ordinary dishwashing liquid soap.

Features

• Item Weight: 8 pounds Product Dimensions: 17 x 12.5 x 2.3 inches Dimensions of the product: 17 x 12.5 x 2.3 inches

Pros

• Heat retention is superior.
• Keeps your delectable food warm for an extended time

Cons

• The Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet from Utopia Kitchen is not dishwasher safe.
• Lodge Cast Iron Skillet (Pre-Seasoned)
• The lodge is a specialist in the production of cast iron.
• They’ve been making cast iron skillets for more than a century.
• I purchased a little 10.25-inch cast iron skillet, which I adore. Although it’s large enough for my needs, I’d recommend using a 12-inch skillet if you’re cooking for a crowd.

Features

• a single lodge 12 Inch Cast Iron Skillet with Handle Holder, Pre-Seasoned
• 100% natural vegetable oil has been used to season the meat.
• Sear, saute, bake, broil, braise, fry, or grill with it.
• Use in the oven, stove, grill, or over a campfire.

Pros

• For better control, use the assist handle.
• Unrivalled heat retention and even heating
• Induction cooktops are ideal.

Cons

• Only a few consumers complained about the surface quality being overly harsh.

Your Kitchen’s Best Enamelled Cast Iron Cookware

There’s also an excellent assortment of enamelled cast iron cookware to choose from.

All of those dependable, traditional cast iron skillets and pans that cooks have adored for decades. They all have gorgeous, contemporary, enamelled variants these days, too!

It’s no longer a question of preference when you choose cast iron over enamelled cast iron.

Excellent enamelled cast iron skillets, grids, and woks are available.

Excellent enamelled cast iron skillets, grids, and woks are available.

You can also acquire an enamelled Dutch Oven if you don’t want to take it hiking with you.

It can be tough to decide which cookware is better for you because enamelled cast iron and normal cast iron both have a range of benefits.

Enamelled Lodge 6 Quart Cast Iron Dutch Oven with Loop Handles and Stainless Steel Knob

I’ve used the Lodge Enamelled 6 Quart Cast Iron Dutch Oven and have some suggestions to make your life easier.

While dishwasher safe, hand washing with warm soapy water and a nylon Scrub Brush is recommended to keep the cookware’s original beauty. Dry the cookware well before storing it. Cookware should not be stacked.

If necessary, clear food debris with nylon pads or scrapers. Metal tools or pads will scratch or ruin the porcelain.

Citrus juices or cleansers containing citrus should not be used in the Lodge Enamelled 6 Quart Cast Iron Dutch Oven. The reason for this is that they can degrade the outside polish.

It’s worth noting that this also applies to dishwasher detergents. Faint stains can be removed using a wet cloth and Lodge Enamel Cleaner or other ceramic cleaners, as instructed on the bottle.

Features

• A stainless steel knob is included.
• For maximum control, use loop handles.
• Use it to marinade, chill, cook, and serve.
• Preheat the oven to 500°F and broil, braise, bake, or roast the food.
• The shape of the item: round

Pros

• Ingredients will not react to the smooth glass surface.
• Heat retention and even heating are unrivalled, making it ideal for induction cooktops.

Cons

• I had no problems with the Lodge Enamelled 6 Quart Cast Iron Iron Dutch Oven. The majority of Amazon reviewers appear to be very pleased with this product.

3.6 Quart Lodge Enamel Cast Iron Casserole Dish with Lid

At up to 500°F, the Lodge 3.6 Quart Cast Iron Casserole Pan can bake, broil, sauté, or grill. It’s the perfect go-to cookware.

It has dual handles that make moving this dish from the cooktop to the table a breeze.

The lid keeps the food from splattering.

You can choose from Caribbean blue or Oyster white, which are striking colours. It’s comparable to a skillet, except the casserole pan comes with a handy lid.

Features

• On any stovetop, including induction, saute, simmer, or fry.
• Black matte enamel rims
• Off-white is the colour of the cooking surface.
• The knob is made of stainless steel.
• In the kitchen, they’re workhorses, and on the dinner table, they’re showpieces.
• The dimensions are approximately 14.4?? x 12.55?? x 3.4??, with a diameter of 11.75?? and a depth of 2.13??.

Pros

• Heat retention and consistent heating are unrivalled in cast iron.
• The smooth glass surface won’t react to the ingredients, so there’s no need to season it.
• The Bungalow The 3.6 Quart Cast Iron Casserole Pan is great for marinating, chilling, cooking, and serving.

Cons

• Although the Lodge 3.6 Quart Cast Iron Casserole Pan can be washed in the dishwasher, hand washing is recommended to maintain the cookware’s original appearance.

Finally, cast iron and enamelled cast iron cookware are durable and long-lasting. You can use either for most surfaces. They cook evenly and maintain a consistent temperature. Any pan can be used to sear meat because it can withstand high heat.

As I previously stated, an empty enamelled cast iron skillet should never be heated to its maximum temperature. Unlike a regular cast-iron skillet, which may be preheated to a blistering temperature, an empty enamelled skillet can be damaged if preheated too hot.

Stop using enamelled cast skillets for recipes that call for preheating the skillet to a high temperature before adding the ingredients.

Cast iron cookware is popular among cooks for a variety of reasons.

It is recommended that you get one of both classic and enamelled cast iron.

Use the enamelled version for cooking chilli and other acidic meals, as well as for rapid cleanup.

Bring your traditional cast iron pot with you when you go hiking.