Showing posts from Skillet Maintenance

How Do You Remove Carbon Buildup From Cast Iron Safely?

How Do You Remove Carbon Buildup From Cast Iron Safely?

You’ve been cooking with your trusty cast iron skillet for years, and now it’s developed a black, bumpy layer that won’t come off. That’s carbon buildup — not seasoning — and it’s a different beast. I’ve seen seasoned cooks panic when their skillet starts flaking, thinking they’ve ruined it. But don’t worry: you can clean that gunk off without wrecking the seasoning underneath. A seven-year-old Lodge 12-inch skillet taught me exactly how.

Should I Buy a 10 or 12 Inch Cast Iron Skillet for My First Pan

Should I Buy a 10 or 12 Inch Cast Iron Skillet for My First Pan

You’re standing in the cookware aisle, ready to finally take the plunge. In front of you are two heavy, black skillets that look nearly identical. One is a 10-inch. The other is a 12-inch. Your brain tells you, “Bigger is better, right? More space!” But a nagging voice wonders if you’ll be able to lift the bigger one when it’s full of sizzling hot oil.

What Should I Look For When Buying A Cast Iron Skillet

What Should I Look For When Buying A Cast Iron Skillet

You’re standing in the cookware aisle, and there it is: the wall of cast iron. On one end, a trusty 12-inch skillet for less than the price of a movie ticket. On the other, a sleek, artisan-forged pan that costs more than your entire knife set. They’re both just heavy chunks of iron, right? So why the huge price difference, and which one will give you that steakhouse-level sear you’ve been dreaming of?