Cookware made of carbon steel has a better heat tolerance and is more durable compared to cast iron. It also has the slick surfaces of non-stick pots and pans, and it heats faster than the ones made up of stainless steel.
Many homeowners consider this as one of the best alternatives in Teflon. It has non-stick components, and it’s safer because it does not contain additional chemicals and harmful toxins. This is similar to the cast iron skillets, where a carbon steel pan has a non-stick feature. This can be a considerable reduction in unhealthy oils or butter that you may be used to cook your meal.
An Introduction about the Carbon Steel Cookware
The cookware has similar elements to that of a cast iron. For one, it consists of about 99% iron and 1% carbon. This is often used for searing, sauteing, frying, or grilling. Additionally, this is preferred because of its ability to retain heat. It can resist all ranges of temperature, and the entire pan will have an even distribution of heat. With these features, it’s possible to use the pan as a gas stove, oven, or induction cooker.
Additionally, know that there’s some irony that may leach into the food, and iron is one of the minerals present in the body. Those who are always in the kitchen cooking meals know that they are more comfortable and lightweight than those larger skillets, so you won’t feel too tired while working. Another thing is that these pots and pans are not only ideal for the home’s kitchen, but professional chefs can also use them.
Pros to Consider
Carbon steel has so many benefits. However, this does not mean that it does not have any disadvantages. You should first check out the pros and cons before buying an entire set and see if you can handle the downsides.
A Natural Non-Stick Cookware
One of the benefits of using the pans is that they have a natural non-stick property. As long as the pans are seasoned properly, they will save you oil and butter in the long run. It’s worth noting, though, that it will take a few rounds before the surface becomes non-stick. With regular use, the performance improves over time.
It lasts Longer and is Extremely Durable
Carbon steel will last for a very long time. It’s 99% iron, and it won’t easily break compared to other cookware made with cast iron. Read more about carbon steel on this page. With proper care, usage, and maintenance, this can serve you for more years. If it’s misused, know that it will tend to bend but not break entirely.
The composition of 99% iron and 1% carbon is incredibly strong. They are also ductile and malleable, and they can be layered and pressed into the pan during the manufacturing process without unnecessary cracks.
If you accidentally drop the pan on the floor, mistakenly increase the temperature, or bang it against another cookware in the cabinet, there’s a slim chance that it will warp, break, or get scratches. It’s non-stick when seasoned well, so you wouldn’t have to worry about the surfaces peeling off or wearing down.
Lightweight and Easier to Maneuver
Many homeowners have cast iron in their kitchen, and it’s becoming fairly common. However, it has a downside where many found it to be extremely heavy. They typically weigh around 5 to 11 pounds. With this much weight, it might require some muscle and two hands to take it out of the cabinets, transfer this to the oven, and clean it afterwards.
This is where carbon steel comes in as a better option. Generally, this is more lightweight, and you can maneuver this easily. It’s made up of malleable cast iron that has been rolled into thinner sheets during the manufacturing process. As a result, the walls are lighter and thinner while the pan maintains its strength.
Versatile
If you have a small cupboard where you can’t store all your pans and pots, you might want something to use for almost all of the dishes you want to cook. One of the advantages of carbon steel is its versatility.
Regardless of if you’re stir-frying veggies, roasting chicken, grilling steaks, or scrambling eggs, you can almost do anything with the carbon steel cookware. It can adapt to various cooking methods like frying, searing, broiling, sauteing, browning, braising, and more.
It’s safe to use inside your oven or on the stove. You can also use this on the grill or under a broiler. It heats faster and has a higher tolerance of heat compared to other materials. Another advantage is that it’s naturally non-stick. If you don’t want cluttered pots and pans in your cupboards, you always get high-quality cookware that offers the versatility that you need.
Affordable Option
Professional chefs love this cookware because it has a more affordable price point. This can last a lifetime, while you can get this for under $50. It’s not surprising that many people prefer this compared to cast iron. When you don’t have the budget for stainless steel, you can get high-quality and professional-grade carbon steel that suits your budget.
Cons to Know About
Requires Seasoning
While there are many benefits of getting carbon steel pots and pans, there are still disadvantages to consider. The first one is this will require seasoning to turn it into a non-stick pan. Although it will require more work initially, the process is simple and easy to do. You just have to put the carbon steel over medium heat until it turns hot.
When the pan turns into a brown color, add lard or vegetable shortening. Spread this with a clean cloth or tongs. Once it’s coated, turn the heat up and wait until the fat becomes a liquid substance. Remove the pan and wipe away the excess. Cool the pan and wipe this with a dry paper towel. Repeat this about three times or more for a high-quality season. When you notice that food begins to stick into the surfaces again or the pan turns into a grey color, just do the steps again.
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