Cast Iron Vs Enameled Cast Iron: A Detailed Comparison of the Two
When it comes to cooking with cast iron, there are many options available.
There is enameled cast iron, which has more benefits than most people realize. But there is also regular old cast iron.
Both have their own pros and cons, as well as different uses. So which one should you use when cooking? Let’s take a look at the differences between cast iron vs enameled cast iron so you can decide which one works best for your needs.
What is Cast Iron?
Cast iron is made from mixing iron and carbon together, and then pouring that liquid into a mold where it hardens into a piece of cookware.
There are many types of cast iron, such as carbon steel, tin, and cast iron skillets.
Cast iron pots and pans are excellent pieces of cookware that can last you a lifetime if properly cared for.
But there are two types of cast iron – enameled cast iron and regular cast iron.
Let’s look at the differences between these two types of cast iron so you can decide which one is best for your kitchen.
Pros of Using Regular Cast Iron
– The skillet is extremely durable and lasts for many years when properly cared for.
– The cast iron skillet can be used on any type of stovetop, including induction.
– Cast iron skillets are very economical, costing far less than enameled cast iron skillets.
– Cast iron skillets have a higher heat rating than enameled cast iron skillets.
Cons of Using Regular Cast Iron
– The skillet is very heavy, making it difficult to use and clean.
– Regular cast iron skillets cannot be used in the oven, which means you must have two skillets.
– Cast iron skillets cannot be painted with a porcelain finish.
– You must be very careful when using the skillet on high heat because it can become extremely hot and burn food.
What is Enameled Cast Iron?
Enameled cast iron is cast iron pots and skillets that have been coated with a thick layer of porcelain.
This porcelain coating is very hard and durable, and it can chip or crack if it is dropped.
This hard enamel coating protects the cast iron from rusting, which makes it a very useful kitchen tool.
The porcelain coating on the outside of the cast iron can be painted on in different colors.
This gives you the ability to customize your pots and skillets with your own color scheme.
Also, enameled cast iron is nonstick, which means food will not stick to the surface of the pot or skillet.
This makes clean up much easier and faster.
And enameled cast iron is oven safe up to a high temperature of 500 degrees Fahrenheit, meaning you can use it to bake in the oven as well as on the stove.
When you use regular cast iron, you must be very careful when baking in the oven because it can become extremely hot and could scorch food.
Differences Between Cast Iron and Enameled Cast Iron
Cast iron and enameled cast iron skillets are very similar in many ways, but there are a few key differences between them.
For example, enameled cast iron pots and skillets are easier to clean than regular cast iron skillets because they are nonstick.
But regular cast iron skillets have a higher heat rating, which means they can be used for searing and browning foods that need high heat.
Also, regular cast iron skillets have a higher price point than enameled cast iron pots and skillets.
Pros of Using Enameled Cast Iron
– The porcelain coating on the outside of the cast iron protects the iron from rusting and makes the skillet nonstick.
– The skillet is oven safe, so you can bake in it as well as use it on the stove.
– Enameled cast iron is lighter than regular cast iron, so it is easier to handle and clean.
– The porcelain coating on the outside of the skillet can be painted on in different colors, giving you the ability to customize the look.
Cons of Using Enameled Cast Iron
– The porcelain coating on the inside and outside of the skillet chips and can crack if it is dropped.
– The porcelain coating can chip if the skillet is not washed properly and the pan is used on high heat.
– Enameled cast iron is more expensive than regular cast iron skillets.
Conclusion
Cast iron skillets are excellent pieces of cookware that can be used for many things – baking, frying, sautéing, and more. But there are two types of cast iron skillets available.
The choice between cast iron vs enameled cast iron will depend on your cooking needs, as well as your budget.
Enameled cast iron skillets are excellent pots and skillets that are nonstick, oven safe, and easy to clean.
But regular cast iron skillets are heavier, provide more heat for searing and browning food, and are more economical.
Which one is best for you will depend on your cooking needs.