Caring for porcelain cast iron cookware is straightforward. While the enamel coating is resistant to rust and easy to clean, it is essential to avoid using metal utensils that can scratch the surface. Instead, opting for wooden or silicone utensils will help maintain the integrity of the enamel. After use, simply wash with warm, soapy water, and avoid putting them in the dishwasher, as the harsh conditions may wear down the enamel over time.

1. Prepping the Pot If your cast iron pot is new, wash it with warm, soapy water and dry it thoroughly. Season it with a thin layer of vegetable oil and heat it gently to create a natural non-stick surface.

Why Choose a Cast Iron Dutch Oven?

If you’re looking for a versatile option that suits a variety of dishes, consider our oval sizzler plates. The oval sizzler plate provides ample space for arranging food, making it ideal for serving multi-component dishes such as fajitas, mixed grills, or seafood platters. The oval shape allows for even heat distribution, ensuring that all parts of the dish are cooked to perfection and remain hot throughout the meal.

A grill pan, typically made from cast iron or a non-stick material, features raised ridges that create perfect grill marks on food while allowing excess fat to drain away. When paired with a press, which is a heavy, flat tool that evenly distributes weight over the food, the benefits multiply. One of the primary advantages of using a grill pan with press is the ability to achieve that coveted, crispy exterior on meats and vegetables. Applying pressure during the cooking process allows for better contact with the pan’s surface, promoting even cooking and enhancing flavor development through the Maillard reaction—a chemical reaction that occurs when proteins and sugars in food are exposed to heat.

Another standout feature of custom cast iron skillets is their impressive versatility. They can be used on various heat sources, including stovetops, ovens, and even open flames. This adaptability allows for a wide range of cooking techniques, from frying and stewing to baking and roasting. For example, a custom skillet can be used to prepare a decadent frittata in the oven, followed by a deliciously crispy pan-seared steak on the stovetop—all in one piece of cookware. With their wide rims and sturdy handles, these skillets excel in both function and form.

When placing your food onto the grill, remember the importance of timing and positioning. For those classic diamond-shaped grill marks, place your food at a 45-degree angle to the grill grates. After a few minutes, rotate it another 90 degrees before flipping it. Timing is everything—too soon, and you risk tearing the meat; too late, and you’ll miss the perfect sear.