Out of all of the different types of frying pans that are available, cast iron frying pans are definitely one of the best options out there, if not the best. And there are quite a few reasons for this, but we’re going to talk about two of the biggest reasons, and the ones that you will notice the most, when using a good cast iron frying pan.
With a good cast iron frying pan, you are able to cook just about anything. Cast iron frying pans are exceptionally versatile, and using one, you have the freedom to cook just about anything with them, which is very nice! You can cook eggs, burgers, potatoes, french toast, and all kinds of other things, and that’s because this type of material is designed to give you that level of versatility and flexibility.
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The other thing that you will notice about cast iron frying pans is the fact that they are very strong and durable frying pans. These are not poorly made or made of weak material that will crack and break if you drop them onto the floor. Now, there are various myths that cast iron frying pans are weak and that they tend to be lacking in durability, and there are other myths that say that cast iron frying pans are, more or less, invulnerable.
Neither one of these myths is particularly true, but generally speaking, cast iron frying pans are incredibly durable, and they can withstand quite a bit. So, if you tend to drop your frying pans often, then a cast iron frying pan might just be a great choice.
Ultimately, cast iron frying pans are so popular and so favored because they are made of such strong material, and because they are so versatile. Many people actually pass their cast iron frying pans down from generation to generation, because these frying pans are so strong and so well-designed!
In this buying guide, we’re going to be taking a good, in-depth look at cast iron frying pans, and what the best cast iron frying pans are. Only, we’re not going to be looking at any specific cast iron frying pans, instead, we’re going to be looking at the main factors that comprise the best cast iron frying pans, and from this information, you’re going to be able to find a great cast iron frying pan that works for you, and that enables you to cook all of your favorite foods!
What Do I Need To Look For And Consider?
As you might imagine, when searching for the best cast iron frying pan, there really isn’t that much that you need to be aware of or that you need to actually consider. Cast iron frying pans are pretty simple, even the best ones, so this guide isn’t going to be particularly elaborate. But, we will be talking about the individual factors that we’re bringing up, and the direct ways those can affect your experience with the cast iron frying pan, and your experience cooking with it.
How Heavy Is The Cast Iron Frying Pan?
When you look at cast iron frying pans, it’s very important that you consider the weight of the pan, and the general density of the cast iron itself.
Cast iron frying pans are not light. Let’s get that out of way. In comparison to many of the newer types of frying pans, cast iron frying pans are quite heavy, and this makes them rather difficult to hold and maneuver around. This is changing, however, since we’ve found new ways of casting the iron in cast iron frying pans, but, cast iron frying pans are still quite heavy. And, they are even heavier if the cast iron itself is quite dense.
However, when searching for the best cast iron frying pan, you should actually try to find one that is rather heavy and quite dense with cast iron. And there are a few reasons for this. But, the main reason for this is because when there is more weight to the cast iron frying pan, and more overall thickness when it comes to the cast iron that the frying pan is made of, this allows the heat to be held in place a lot easier, and less heat will escape from the frying pan. From this, it’s a lot easier to cook the meals that require more heat.
To give you an example, let’s say you are trying to cook several burgers at one time, in a larger cast iron frying pan. Now, these burgers require a considerable amount of heat, in order for you to cook them all at the same exact time. With a cast iron frying pan that only has a thin layer of cast iron comprising the entire pan, and, in turn, a general lack of heft, the heat isn’t able to stay within the pan and its surface, so it will take longer to cook those burgers.
However, if the cast iron frying pan is heavier and has a thicker layer of cast iron comprising the pan, then the heat will be trapped in the pan, and conducted to its surface, and those burgers will take significantly less time to cook, since they will be receiving the adequate amount of heat that they need.
How Big Is The Cast Iron Frying Pan?
You’ll find a wide variety of different cast iron frying pans, and many of these cast iron frying pans come in different sizes, as well. It can be a little tricky to know which cast iron frying pan is the best one, if you aren’t sure what kinds of dishes you will be cooking in the pan.
When looking at the cast iron frying pans, it’s important to think about the dishes that you usually cook. Think about the pan that you currently use, and how big that pan is. What are the dishes that you cook in that pan? What are the biggest dishes you cook in that pan?
If the current frying pan that you use is more than adequate for your cooking needs, then it’s best to buy a cast iron frying pan that is that size. Whether that’s twelve-inches or seventeen-inches, it’s best to purchase a cast iron frying pan that is that size. Unless, of course, you want some more flexibility and freedom when cooking, then you should buy a cast iron frying pan that is a bit bigger.
As a general rule, though, the bigger the cast iron frying pan, the heavier it should weigh, so that it is able to properly capture and retain the heat.
What Type Of Handle Does The Cast Iron Frying Pan Have?
Out of all of the different considerations for these types of things, this isn’t one of the most important considerations, at all, but it is still something to look for and think about.
When you purchase a cast iron frying pan, it’s important that you buy one with a good handle that allows you to pick it up, off of the stove, without burning yourself. Cast iron frying pans get very hot, and without a good handle, you’ll be relying on oven mitts so that you can actually remove the frying pan.
Ideally, the cast iron frying pan will have a handle with some type of covering – made out of plastic or some other material – enabling you to pick it up and move it around, with ease.
How Much Does The Cast Iron Frying Pan Cost?
At the end of the day, this is one of the biggest considerations of them all. The cost is one of those things that will “make or break” it, and if the cast iron frying pan is too expensive, you might not buy that cast iron frying pan at all.
Most cast iron frying pans aren’t too expensive, but it does depend on the size, brand, and the thickness/density of the cast iron that is used.
Ultimately, if you want a good cast iron frying pan that will last you many years, and you intend to cook dishes that are a bit more complex, then you will probably end up paying $60, for the absolute best cast iron frying pan that money can buy. If you want something that’s less expensive, and meant more for smaller dishes and relatively infrequent usage, you might pay around $25 for a great cast iron frying pan. Anything lower than that and the cast iron frying pan will still be good, but not as good as it could be.
Conclusion
Ultimately, cast iron frying pans are incredibly useful frying pans that make cooking significantly easier. If you follow this guide and consider the points that we’ve made, you will be able to find an absolutely fantastic cast iron frying pan that enables you to cook all of your favorite dishes in the best way possible!