The compelling benefits of enameled cast iron cookware

While traditional cast iron cookware is still the darling for many cooks. A growing number of home cooks and professional chefs today prefer enamel cast iron cookware instead. But what are the benefits of enameled cast iron?

An increasing number of people are finding out about the benefits of enamelware. This is because the design combines both visual qualities with performance. Enameled cast iron is available and is easily accessible on the market in an array of styles. However, for me, the French still do it best. Two of the most well-known brands are Staub and Le Creuset.

Out with the old and in with the new?

Before we get into the benefits of enameled cast iron, I must admit I’m a huge fan of bare cast iron. I have a few new and old skillets and love them. However, I can really see why so many are choosing enameled cast iron.

Lodge Manufacturing makes great skillets at very reasonable prices if you want a cheaper option. Enameled cookware can be very expensive. In fact, I would still recommend a bare cast iron skillet for your first frying pan over enameled cast iron which can cost a pretty penny. For skillets, I would still go for a new skillet from Lodge. They really are so much fun to use.

However, bare cast iron may require seasoning after a while. One of the benefits of enameled cast iron is that you will never have to season your pans.

If you want to throw your cookware in the dishwasher, then use enamel cast iron.

I think anyone wanting to slow cook meals in a French or Dutch oven if you prefer should also consider the benefits of enameled cast-iron. Staub French ovens are some of the best and will certainly last you a long time. They look beautiful can handle acidic foods and with larger meals can up is a breeze. If you are cooking indoors, I really would go for the enamel versions if your budget allows.

Coming back to the cleanup. Really if we want to look at one of the main benefits of enameled cast iron is that you can throw your cookware in the dishwasher and worry about it the next day.

Cast iron vs. enamel cast iron

What most people think about cast iron cookware is the lovely black finish on skillets and Dutch ovens. Actually bare cast iron is not black but rather a silvery grey color. The black color comes from a layer of oil polymerized onto the surface.

This layer is called seasoning and has nothing to do with salt and pepper. This seasoning also has non-stick properties. The seasoning also protects the iron from rust.

Seasoning cast iron cookware will give the iron cookware a semi non-stick cooking surface. Most people start the seasoning process by placing some fat into the pan before heating the pan to the smoke point. This process requires that you use the right kind of oil and the proper technique. This process is very easy, but it’s a bit of a lost skill.

Enameled cast iron differs from bare cast iron because it is rust-proof. The cast iron metal is covered by a coating of porcelain, which is made from powdered glass. This version of cast iron cookware is a lot easier to care for. It is also available in a broad range of finishes and colors.

To my knowledge enameled cast iron performs pretty much the same as bare cast iron in terms of heat retention and distribution. However, enameled cast iron does not need to be seasoned. It also is a lot easier to clean and requires no maintenance. If you want to know more about cast iron vs enameled cast iron chick the link to the cast iron showdown.

Main differences between cast iron and enamel cast iron

• Bare cast iron is typically cheaper than enameled cast iron
• Enamel cast iron requires no seasoning
• Enamel cast iron is not affected by acidic foods
• Bare cast iron has a black color while one of the benefits of enameled cast iron is that it offers a wide range of interesting colors

Some key benefits of enamel cast iron cookware:

Durability

A cast iron enameled pot or pan does cost more than other varieties of nonstick cookware. However, unlike these cheaper pieces, enamel cast iron cookware is going to last a long time. In fact, it’s not unheard of for cast iron to be passed down as an heirloom piece to family members. Enamel cast iron cookware also tends to be heavier and sturdier, which allows it to last for so long. Staub cookware undergoes a process that makes it resistant to chipping and cracking, even after continued use. Find out why we love our Staub cookware “here”.

Adaptability

Enamel cast iron cookware can be used on a variety of heat sources. It can be used under a grill, in the oven, or on your stovetop just as easily. This is why it is useful for a variety of cooking elements that include induction. Most enamel ceramic cookware has a flat base that allows for use on an induction oven. Owing to technological advancements and superior designs, most manufacturers of enamel cast cookware, particularly the high-end ones such as Staub on average use updated designs and ergonomic knobs that can resist heat to temperatures of 260 degrees Celsius.

Heat retention capability

Enameled cast iron both spreads and retains heat very well, which allows meals to remain hot. If you decide to serve any meals in an enameled cast iron oven, the chances are high that the meal will remain warm throughout. Thermal mass is what sets apart enameled cast iron from other cookware construction materials. Since cast iron gives an even surround heat is also why most people prefer baking in enamel cast iron using; casserole pots and French ovens at low temperatures for slow cooking.

Natural non-stick capability

Enamel cast iron cookware is naturally more non-stick. The smooth enamel finish acts like a non-stick layer that is perfect for making a wide variety of meals. As long as you set the right temperature when cooking (low to medium heat), a light layer of fat will automatically cover the surface, therefore delivering the perfect browning effect.

Another one of the benefits of enameled cast iron is that it’s so easy to clean

The enamel surface, which has non-stick properties, is very easy to clean and maintain. Most enamel cookware, especially the quality and high-end ones like Staub, are easy to clean. They only need a non-abrasive sponge, lukewarm water, and mild soap in most cases. Most manufacturers today also ensure that their range of enamel cookware is dishwasher safe for easier cleaning. After braising, roasting, or stewing food, you definitely need cookware that is easier to clean.

Variety

One of the best benefits of enamel cookware is that it offers consumers a variety in terms of size and color. If you find a manufacturer that you like, it is easy to collect a wide array of enamel cookware in different sizes and colors. This can help to add a little flair to your kitchen. This also allows you to mix and match your existing cookware, kitchen décor, or table settings easily.

No leaching

Enameled cast iron cookware does not experience any leaching. Unlike other types of cookware including stainless steel. Although stainless steel does leach fair less than other bare metal cooking surfaces. If you think regular cast iron is unsafe because iron is leached into your food then enameled cast iron could be right for you.

Enameled cast iron does not react to acidic foods. This means that you can prepare a wide variety of food that is acidic. Foods like chili and sauces that contain large concentrations of acidic food like tomatoes which you may avoid cooking in bare cast iron.

No rusting

The main benefit of enameled cast iron is the fact it doesn’t rust. Unlike bare or traditional cast iron cookware, enameled cast iron cookware is not prone to rust. Bare cast iron can rust easily if it is not seasoned correctly. It can also rust when it is kept in water for extensive periods. This can happen if the pan is put away and stacked with not fully dry.

Enameled cast iron has a protective layer of coating that protects it from rusting. Which allows you to soak it, boil water in it, as well as clean it inside a dishwasher.

Buying enameled cast iron cookware

A large number of enamel cast iron brands out there are created to last for years. As such, they tend to be pricier than other categories of inexpensive aluminum or nonstick cookware. The prices of enameled cookware vary from mid-range prices to high-end cases such as Staub.

With these high-end pieces, you typically pay for the design and durability. Also, trusted brands like Staub and Le Creuset are known to be the best and therefore will cost more. These two brands are the most expensive and the best enamel cookware. They also happen to be French, I’m sure this may factor into their pricing.

Tip for purchase: buying authentic cast iron enamel cookware can be pricey. Prepare a budget before making a purchase and consider which types of cookware you use the most. I think choosing the best size for your needs is very important. Weight can be an issue however, I would recommend the size up if you are choosing between two sizes. Alternatively, you can collect your pieces slowly. This is what I have done. buying one piece at a time. “Who’s says Christmas only comes once a year?”

3 Types of enamel cookware that you must have;

A cast iron enameled Dutch oven or French ovens

A cast iron enamel Dutch oven is an essential tool in the modern kitchen. Dutch ovens can be used for preparing a broad variety of meals including homemade broths, stews, soups, and braised meats. A Dutch oven can even be used to prepare artisan-style bread.

The thick walls and the heavy lids Staub enamel cookware allows stews and meats to come out tender and juicy. This is because moisture is recycled in the pot preventing evaporation and food to dry out. Dutch ovens can also be used easily on stovetops. These pots are perfect for making large quantities of meat and vegetables with little spatter or heat loss. A Dutch oven is also good for deep frying.

A cast iron enamel saucier

A cast iron enameled saucier is the perfect tool for making sauces. With a cast iron enamel saucier is easy and less messy to pour. The smooth round edges make it easy to whip sauces and combine different ingredients. For cooking techniques such as low heat, low water methods, an enamel cast iron saucier will do you proud.

A cast iron enamel skillet

The cast iron skillet is so useful. It’s already a favorite in many kitchens around the world. Just like a regular skillet, it can fry, sear, braise can go from the stovetop and into the oven with ease. An enameled pan can do all of these without the need for seasoning. Staub enamel is very hard and will not scratch easily. Also, the black glaze keeping the beautiful look of a traditional skillet.

Is enamel cast iron cookware safe to use?

One of the main benefits of enameled cast iron cookware over traditional pieces is inertness. The enamel coating is non-reactive with acidic foods. This also implies that it is suitable for varieties of meals and sauces.

Chipped enamel may cause the exposed cast iron to leach into your food. As such, it is always advisable to purchase your cast iron from a reliable and trustworthy manufacturer. My favorite enamel cookware is Staub and Le Creuset. They have a long history of making top-notch cookware. Additionally, ensure that whichever enamel piece of cookware you purchase has a thick coating that will not chip easily.

According to the FDA’s Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, all varieties of enamel cast iron cookware must pass the center’s regulatory standards.  This is aimed at enforcing the safety of the cookware. Whichever brand of enamel cookware you select, whether inexpensive or high-end, standards are there to guarantee your safety. In any case, manufacturers have since discontinued the use of harmful substances during production.

Tips for taking care of enameled cast iron cookware

Another one of the benefits of enameled cast iron cookware is that it’s very easy to care for. Just as long as you follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions and these simple tips:

1. Clean your enameled cast iron cookware frequently to keep it in good shape. Failing to clean regularly can cause the flavor to carry over from one meal to the next.
2. Wash your enamel cast iron cookware using warm water. If your cookware has any stains or spots, you can try removing the spotting using a damp cloth. If the stains are persistent, soak the interior for a few hours.
3. Use a non-abrasive sponge to preserve the aesthetic quality of the cookware. Although most enamel cast iron cookware is safe for use in a dishwasher. I would recommend washing by hand. This will keep your glossy pots looking beautiful. Some people do not use soap on bare cast iron because it may remove the seasoning. This is not an issue for enamelware.

What do you think? I think there are many benefits of enameled cast iron. If you’re thinking about a new pan enameled cast iron would make a great choice

The benefits of enameled cast iron are numerous. You can most of the benefits of bare cast iron without the need to re-season your cookware. I would opt for Staub or Le Creuset they are simply the best enameled cast-iron cookware. They are both pricier than other enamelware however, I believe they are worth the extra cost. If you’re new to cast iron then you may want to check out another one of my articles “Why cook with cast iron?”