If you love to cook, then you’re probably familiar with cast iron and enameled cast iron cookware. However, since both materials are used in the creation of cookware, you may not be able to tell the difference between them just by looking at the product.
Suppose you are shopping for cookware and trying to understand the differences between cast iron cookware and enameled cast iron cookware. Look no further than our complete guide, breaking down the two types of cookware, including what they are, their key differences, and a few similarities.
Let’s get started:
What is Cast Iron?
Cast iron is a material that’s made by pouring molten iron into a mold. It’s then cooled and solidified. The resulting cookware is incredibly durable, which is why it’s often used in industrial applications.
However, cast iron can be difficult to work with because it’s brittle and prone to rusting. Cast iron is a type of iron that contains carbon, silicon, manganese, phosphorus, and sulfur. It’s made by heating iron ore in a blast furnace until the impurities are removed. The resulting iron is then cast into molds to create cookware.
Some metalworking techniques are needed to make cast-iron cookware, including sand casting and investment casting. One advantage of this cookware is its durability: it lasts much longer than other pots and pans, such as stainless steel or aluminum. In addition, few pieces on the market today have been made entirely from one piece of cast iron; most have an enamel coating over their surface.
What is Enameled Cast Iron Cookware?
Enameled cast iron refers to a type of cookware that is made from cast iron that has been coated with enamel. This enamel coating helps prevent the iron from rusting and makes it easier to clean.
Enameled cast iron is also less likely to stick to food, making it a good choice for cooking. However, enameled cast iron is more expensive than regular cast iron and less durable. Cast iron can last for generations if cared for properly, while enameled cast iron will only last up to 20 years before it needs to be replaced.
The quality of the enamel coating is also an issue since some are more fragile than others. The thicker coatings are better in this case, but these can also result in cracking or chipping over time due to temperature changes.
Cast iron pots and pans come in many different shapes and sizes, making them versatile in terms of how they are used. Enameled cast iron pots and pans, on the other hand, typically come in just one shape — a skillet — which makes them limited when it comes to versatility.
To make enameled cast-iron pots and pans more user-friendly for cooking, manufacturers apply an enamel coating over their surface; this process takes just minutes before they’re ready for use on your stovetop or oven.
Cast Iron Vs. Enameled Cast Iron
There are some similarities and differences between cast iron and enameled cast iron cookware. It’s also easier to clean and care for than cast iron. If you’re looking for the best cookware for your needs, it’s important to understand the difference between these two types.
Seasoning
Cast iron cookware is known for its durability and heat distribution, but it requires seasoning. This is a process of building up a layer of oil on the pan’s surface that will protect it from rust and help create a non-stick surface. On the other hand, enameled cast iron comes with a pre-seasoned or non-stick coating that eliminates the need for seasoning.
Heating
Cast iron is a durable, heat-conductive material that can be used on any cooking surface, including induction cooktops. It’s an ideal choice for slow-cooking methods like braising and simmering. Enameled cast iron heats slower than cast iron but is effective at evenly distributing heat. Its porcelain coating also offers additional protection against rust and corrosion.
Reacting With Acids
Cast iron is well known for its durability and heat retention properties, but it can also be reactive with acidic ingredients. This means that it can rust if not properly seasoned or cared for.
Enameled cast iron is minimally reactive, meaning it won’t rust as easily. However, it doesn’t retain heat as well as uncoated cast iron. So, cast iron cookware may react more readily with acidic foods such as tomato sauce or vinegar than enameled cast iron pans.
Durability
There are two types of cast iron cookware: cast iron and enameled cast iron. Both are extremely durable, but there are some key differences between them. One difference is that the heat transfer rate in enameled cast iron is twice as high as in traditional cast iron. In other words, food cooks faster on an enameled surface than on a bare surface.
Enamelled cast iron cookware can withstand oven temperatures up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit or 260 degrees Celsius. Traditional uncoated cast iron can only withstand temperatures up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius without risk of melting or cracking.
Washing With Soap Water
When it comes to washing your cast iron or enameled cast iron cookware, hot soapy water is recommended for both. The only downside is that the cooking surface of cast iron can become stained from food. You may need to scrub with an abrasive such as steel wool before using soap and water. But don’t use metal scouring pads; these may scratch the surface.
Enameled cast iron, on the other hand, needs no pre-treatment; you can wash it with soap immediately without worrying about damage. Plus, if anything ever happens to your pot or pan, you can easily replace it.
Conclusion
If you’re debating whether to invest in cast iron or enameled cast iron cookware, it comes down to what you’ll be using it for. If you’re looking for something versatile and can be used for multiple cooking methods, then cast iron is the way to go. However, if you want something that’s easy to clean and doesn’t require as much upkeep, then enameled cast iron is the better option. Whichever type of cookware you choose, you’ll surely enjoy years of delicious meals!
