Caring for Enamel Cast Iron Cookwares
Enamel cast iron cookwares comes in a variety of colors and also has the very same wonderful benefits as bare cast iron cookware, plus the enamel coating helps prevent flavor absorption into the pores of the metal, does away with the requirement of re-seasoning the cast iron regularly and is safe for high acid foods like tomato sauce. But like all fine cookware, there are several conditions for care to ensure a long life:
Of course, you will need to clean enameled cast iron in mild dish soap before using it for the first time. Rinse well to be certain manufacturing residue is removed from the new cookware.
Slowly warm enamel cast iron cookware for couple of minutes prior to adding any cooking oil. This preheating helps maintain the enamel coating and definitely will make your cookware easier to clean.
You Can’t Use a High Heat Like Basic Cast Iron
Cook foods on low to medium heat in enameled cast iron kitchenware. The cast iron is dense so it will take a while to heat up, after which it retains the heat, and that is why it’s great for low and slow cooking like braises, soups and stews. It’s also great for frying, roasting and indoor grilling. Utilizing a low or medium heat cooks food much more evenly and prevents damage to the coating. Which again means that the cookware stays easier to clean.
Enamel Can Be Scratched or Chipped
You need to be careful with your enamel cookware, as a good bang or possibly a drop on the floor can chip it.Metallic kitchen utensils aren’t recommended either as they can scratch the interior. Use wood, plastic or silicone utensils as an alternative. If your kitchenware is ever damaged, the exposed metal needs to be coated with a cooking fat or oil occasionally to prevent the cookware from rusting.
The Interior Can Be Stained
With use, the enamel interior will discolor. You can make a paste with baking soda and dish detergent or Oxyclean in the cookware and soak it overnight. Personally, I use Barkeeper’s Friend. Their site has a “where to find it” page.
Enameled cast iron cookware surely is more expensive than plain cast iron – but with proper care they’ll last a lifetime or more. And ultimately that makes them a real bargain.