This article is part of our series on non-stick cookware.
We carry the Seasoned Cast Iron line from Lodge Cookware. Lodge cast iron pans have been made in America since 1896. Like carbon steel pans, most cast iron pans must be seasoned to be considered non-stick. The seasoning process isn’t difficult and the better seasoned the pan is, the better the non-stick capabilities you will have. Lodge cast iron pans (non-enameled) are made pre-seasoned with a coating of soybean oil that is baked into the pan at a temperature higher than can be achieved using your oven at home. Over time and with correct usage and cleaning, the pans will become even more non-stick.
Cast iron wouldn’t necessarily be a first recommendation for a non-stick pan due to their weight and cleaning regimen and also the fact that you shouldn’t cook a lot of acidic food if you want to retain the non-stick capabilities. Of course, if acidic food has diminished your pan’s non-stick coating, you can easily re-season it with oil and a hot oven. There is no denying the longevity of a quality piece of cast iron; many people have the same cast iron pans that were used by their grandparents. People who love them, swear by them.
The pans are created using sand/clay molds into which is poured molten iron. Lodge has perfected the ability to produce up to 400 pieces per hour Operating from two foundries in South Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, Lodge uses five Danish-designed machines called Disamatic molding machines; they were the first American company to use this technology.
You can see the process here or on their website and it’s pretty amazing.
While you are there (on their website) explore a little; it’s full of great information and has answers to so many cast iron questions.
The pans will work beautifully on any cooking surface including induction and campfires. Cast iron pans offer amazing heat retention and even heating. Metal utensils are safe but dishwashers are not.
Synopsis:
- Made of cast iron and shipped pre-seasoned
- Oven save to 600F
- Metal utensils okay
- Made in America (non-enameled)
- Induction ready
- Hand wash only