Does cast iron work on induction?
Everyone knows that cast iron is supposed to work really great with induction.
Cast iron is a hard, relatively brittle alloy of iron and carbon which can be readily cast in a mold and contains a higher proportion of carbon than steel.
One of several types of iron, it is a magnetic material, and if we have to think about the stainless steel, we know that it must contain some iron in order to work with induction.
Although it works well, cast iron may scratch the glass of cooking surface unless it is porcelain coated.
To keep your glass looking as new, you can just cook with something thin between the burner and the surface.
You may consider paper towels, newspaper, parchment paper, and even Silpat mats and as long as induction uses magnetic fields, the cooking surface itself does not get hot and you can be sure that the paper will not burn.
So, you are able to keep your cooktop scratch- and splatter-free.
It is true that cast iron is one of the oldest metals used for cooking, and often, one of the most affordable, but it should be mentioned that this metal is not as good a thermal conductor as aluminum.
To make sure your cast iron pots will work with your induction cooker, buy a flat bottom cast iron pans. Some options of pots are available below as we have selected the 5 best cast iron skillets induction ready for your lovely cooking experience.
1. Le Creuset
1. Le Creuset LS2024-164P Signature Iron Handle Skillet
And the first example is Le Creuset LS2024-164P Signature Iron Handle Skillet, a heavyweight fry pan that requires very little oil and this aspect makes it an excellent choice for low-fat cooking.
Another plus refers to the fact that being optimized for steady, even heat, Le Creuset’s improved enamel interior resists staining, dulling and wear and tear.
On the other side, there is a black enamel interior that requires no additional seasoning, unlike other cast-iron cookware, as we have already mentioned. The colorful, long-lasting exterior enamel resists chipping and cracking.
From the first time, you are going to observe the enameled cast-iron construction that provides superior heat retention. The item is dishwasher safe for fast and convenient cleanup.
The pan is designed with a new large loop helper handle in order to facilitate lifting the pan and providing a better grip even while wearing oven mitts.
This handle adds control when moving between stovetop, oven, and table. Pour spouts on two sides allow for drip-free pouring. Such a product is great for your kitchen as it can also be placed in the freezer for food storage or advanced food preparation.
Another aspect that you should consider when it comes to cast iron pots is the fact that cast iron performs well for either slow cooking or high-temperature searing; it has the ability to retain heat efficiently, which makes it ideal for use of lower heat settings in stove-top and oven cooking. And as you may intuit, on the table, a hot covered dish will keep food hot for second servings.
These pots manufactured by Le Creuset distinguish by a quality name; certainly, the longevity of their brand speaks for itself.
It is not non-stick and that means if you do not cook properly it is going to stick even non stick pan stick if you do not use it properly.
As a matter of keeping the heat controlled properly and slowly, turn it down if it gets too hot or just be patient and allow several minutes for the pan to warm up.
2. Cuisinart
2. Cuisinart CI45-30CR Red Chef’s Classic Enameled Cast Iron with Cover
The next option can be Cuisinart CI45-30CR Red Chef’s Classic Enameled Cast Iron with Cover, with its construction that guarantees superior heat retention and even heat distribution.
It has a porcelain enameled exterior that offers durability creating an ideal cooking surface that does not impart flavors or absorb odors.
This time you have to do with a pan with a strong and durable finish in rich colors that are going to complement any kitchen décor: it is perfect for serving and entertaining.
Also, this unit is extremely versatile and suitable for a variety of cooking methods: stove, oven, and broiler safe. If you are interested, you may consider other pan styles are available for cooking soups, sauces, casseroles, grills quiches, bread, and etc.
The lid is smooth inside and coated just as the inside of the pot itself is. Also, there is the edge around the point of contact with the pot itself, and a screw through the center to hold the handle. It has little drip points. You can use the lid with high heat in the oven because it’s the same material as the pot.
This type of cookware can be used for any recipe: you can try from roasts to desserts and you will see that it performs well with a variety of cooking methods from searing to simmering. The inside is very smooth and the lighter color makes it easy to see what you’re doing in there, unlike the typically dark “non-stick” polymer coatings.
This pan is an attractive, functional and useful tool you can buy once and use for decades to come. It cooks evenly and as long as you spray it with olive oil or whatever, things do not stick.
The straight sides make for a generously spaced bottom and this means lots of room to brown a big piece of meat before cooking.
3. Lodge
3. Lodge L8SKG3 Cast Iron Skillet with Glass Lid Induction Ready
You can also have a look at Lodge L8SKG3 Cast Iron Skillet with Glass Lid Induction Ready and you are going to be amazed as not even the most expensive stainless steel or aluminum cookware can rival the even heating, heat retention, versatility, value and durability of this cast iron skillet.
If you are looking for a pot in order to fry, saute, grill, roast, stew, and bake at the expectation level of great chefs, this is exactly what you need.
Do not think twice: convince yourself that the even heating of cast iron is necessary for golden, tender, perfectly pan-fried chicken. This unit is perfect for slow simmering roasts, stews and soups: these cooking practices depend on the heat retention that cast iron offers and with Lodge L8SKG3 Cast Iron Skillet with Glass Lid Induction Ready, you will not be disappointed.
According to the instructions, a bit of cooking oil, vegetable oil on a paper towel and rubbed into the skillet keeps the skillet seasoned.
It is recommended that after cooking, you should let the skillet cool down and then wash with a little dish detergent and water, then dry. The difference between L10SKG3 and L10SK3ASHH41B models refers to the fact that one is pre-seasoned (L10SKG3), the other is not.
The size of this skillet is 10-1/4″ and 2″ deep; it comes with a convenient assist handle and glass lid which is tempered for safety and is dishwasher safe.
The knob is oven safe up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. When pouring the contents out of the pan, the second handle opposite the primary handle is a helpful addition.
4. La Cuisine
4. La Cuisine LC 7385 Enameled Cast Iron Fry Pan with Riveted Stainless Steel Handle
La Cuisine proposes you a new item, LC 7385 Enameled Cast Iron Fry Pan: this round 10-inch fry pan is safe for searing meats.
It combines a cast iron construction with fine enamel exterior finish for oven or stovetop (including induction). You should know that it has a scratch-resistant, stain-resistant, non-toxic, matte black enamel interior surface for different recipes.
With a lifetime guarantee, this cast iron skillet is a perfect choice wonderfully for low-temperature cooking but also excels in searing, browning, and caramelizing.
Once you finished cooking, all you have to do is to allow to cool completely and to simply wash in warm water. And of course, do not place a hot pan in cold water; after washing, always dry the casserole thoroughly before storing.
The pan also includes a riveted stainless steel handle plus cast-iron helper-handle disperses weight. As a recommendation, to avoid burns, always use oven mitts or oven gloves. And never put the hot cookware on an unprotected surface (you can try La Cuisine’s coordinating enamel trivets).
Consider the fact that this product is from Ireland and it is quality and heavy. It is beautifully made with a long handle on one side and a gripper on the other so that it makes picking this up much easier and less of a chance of dropping or spillage. And the open design maximizes surface space and low-slung sides aid vapor escape.
The 10-inch size is pretty much good for everything from eggs to burgers to small steaks. As you may know, the trick of a cast iron pan is to season it with oil (read the instructions in the book that comes with the pan), which gives the pan a smooth (comparatively) non-stick surface.
5. Universal Housewares
5. Universal Housewares Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron PS180 3 Piece Skillet Set
And last but not the least, Universal Housewares Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron PS180 3 Piece Skillet Set comes with different sizes: 10 inch, 7.825 inch and 6.25 inch skillets. Universal pots are pre-seasoned cookware ready to use once it enters your kitchen.
This means that each skillet is coated with vegetable oil and baked it at a high temperature to make your cookware a natural and easy-release cooking surface.
However, you should pay attention when cleaning cast iron pots. As a recommendation, for best results hand wash, dry immediately.
Also, if you want to prolong the life of your cookware, all you have to do is to re-season your cookware when needed and if rusting occurs, simply scour the rust until it is all gone, clean, dry, and continue to season.
Being a set, you have the right accessories for a variety of dishes: these skillets are just like the ones Grandma uses to have and best used with a wooden, silicone or nylon utensils.
Definitely, the pre-seasoned skillets enhance the flavors of the food you are cooking, whether it is peach cobbler or bacon.
The pans have a nice even heat and hold the heat in well to keep your food warm after you have turned off the burner. The handle of the skillets gets hot fast while cooking. Since it is so heavy you may not need to hold the handle and definitely, you are going to need gloves to move it after cooking.
6. Comparison table
Brand |
Le Creuset LS2024-164P Signature Iron Handle Skillet
|
Cuisinart CI45-30CR Red Chef’s Classic Enameled Cast Iron with Cover |
Lodge L8SKG3 Cast Iron Skillet with Glass Lid Induction Ready |
La Cuisine LC 7385 Enameled Cast Iron Fry Pan with Riveted Stainless Steel Handle |
Universal Housewares Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron PS180 3 Piece Skillet Set |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Interior |
Black enamel interior |
cast iron construction |
cast iron construction for superior heat retention |
scratch-resistant, stain-resistant, non-toxic, matte black enamel interior surface |
very smooth, nonstick if seasoned |
Exterior |
Durable enamel finish |
porcelain enameled exterior |
cast iron construction for superior heat retention |
fine enamel exterior finish |
N/A |
Handle |
New large loop helper handle |
Easy to grip handles |
When pouring the contents out of the pan, the second handle opposite the primary handle is a helpful addition. |
riveted stainless steel handle plus cast-iron helper-handle disperses weight |
Yes, they get very hot |
Lid |
No |
The lid is smooth inside and coated just as the inside of the pot itself is |
glass lid is tempered for safety |
No |
No |
Size |
6.33″ |
Different sizes |
10.25″ |
round 10-inch fry pan |
a 10 inch, 7.825 inch and 6.25 inch, skillets |
Colour |
Diverse colors: Palm, Cherry, Marine, Soleil etc. |
Cardinal Red, Cream, Light Blue, Provencal Blue |
Black |
Red, Ruby, Black, Green, Blue, White, Cream |
Black |
Dimensions |
7.5 x 8.9 x 1.8 in |
4.5 x 15.3 x 15.3 inches |
10.25 x 16 x 2 in |
10.6 x 20.7 x 2.4 in |
2.8 x 14 x 13.2 inches |
Weight |
2.5 pounds |
17.4 pounds |
8.55 pounds |
5.1 pounds |
9.96 pounds |
Dishwasher safe |
Yes, dishwasher safe |
Yes |
N/A |
N/A |
No, hand wash |
Oven safe |
Oven-safe to 500 F and broiler-safe |
Yes, up to 500 degrees F |
Yes, oven safe up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit |
Yes |
Yes, they can withstand 500 Degrees |
Pour spouts |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
No |
Yes |
Made in |
France |
China |
USA |
N/A |
China |
Factory Pre-Seasoned |
N/A |
Yes |
N/A |
Yes, Factory Pre-seasoning more durable than home seasoning. |