Enameled Cast Iron Cookware

Enameled cast iron cookware does not require seasoning like traditional cast iron. They look great too, with the classic shapes available for seasoned cast iron but with unique colors. They have the same heavy weight and thus conduct and retain heat superbly as well. Cast iron is traditionally used over an open fire, but work great in modern home kitchens–especially enameled cast iron. They come in a variety of sizes and features, including covers, no covers, high sides, curved sides, loop handles or straight handles.

Some pots are enameled both inside and out, often with white on the inside so that you can see what you are cooking, and an attractive color on the outside. You will generally see more enameled Dutch ovens than skillets, however both kinds are available with enamel.

Cast iron, both plain and enameled, retains a very even temperature over long periods of time, so it is ideal for making soups and stews. A thinner aluminum pan on the same burner over the same temperature will develop hot spots and the food can easily stick or burn on the bottom. Cast iron is a great choice for oven top to oven dishes, since all components can withstand high heat. When using your enameled cast iron cookware, allow a longer heating time for the pan. The thickness of the material means long heat retention, but it also mean slower heat up time.

Cast iron is manufactured by pouring into a mold so there are essentially no seams in the form of the cookware—the feet (on campfire models of Dutch ovens) and the lip, as well as the handle on the lid, exists as an extension of the rest of the oven, so there is no risk of these components breaking over time. The enameled cast iron cookware goes through the additional process of being coated in porcelain. Be careful, though about putting a hot pot into cold water. This can cause the metal and enamel to crack, making the piece rather useless.

Unlike plain cast iron, most enameled cast iron pans can be put in the dishwasher—unless they have wooden handles. They can be washed in the sink with hot water, soap and a non-metal scouring pad.