Cast iron Dutch ovens have been a staple in the kitchen for centuries, and for good reason.  The material a Dutch oven is made of plays a vital role in its use and functionality.  When it comes to Dutch ovens, cast iron is the material of choice for many home cooks and professional chefs alike.

Cast Iron: Traditional cast iron Dutch ovens are renowned for their excellent heat retention and durability. They are ideal for slow cooking, braising, and baking, and can be used on stovetops and in ovens.

However, as cookware diameters are measured at the opening (i.e., from side to side of the top), a 12-inch skillet means roughly 10-inches of real cooking surface. Any food that leans on the curved edges is not in direct contact with the heat and won’t cook as quickly as food on the bottom surface. However, the wide opening and relatively light weight of skillets makes them very easy to maneuver so food can be quickly shifted inside. 

Q: What are the disadvantages of using cast iron frying pans?
A: The disadvantages of using cast iron frying pans include their heavy weight, the need for seasoning and maintenance, and their tendency to rust if not properly cared for.

Once the pan has cooled down, use a clean paper or lint-free towel to wipe excess oil and grease. Cover the skillet's surface with coarse kosher salt, add a small amount of hot water to form a paste, and scrub with a sponge to remove any stuck-on food. Rinse the pan with hot water and then thoroughly towel dry the skillet. Evenly rub a light layer of cooking oil onto the inside of the skillet and store it in a dry place.

If you’ve ever scrubbed tirelessly at a skillet after cooking to get rid of grease, a nonstick pan will make you breathe a sigh of relief as food residue washes right off its surface. Suitable for cooking on low and medium heat, nonstick pans also require less oil than other varieties, which is a big selling point for the health-conscious consumer. Nylon and wooden utensils are better suited for use with non-stick pans, as their surface can be delicate and prone to scratching.

    Both square and round cast iron griddles offer excellent heat retention and distribution, ensuring food cooks evenly and thoroughly.  Square and round cast iron griddles are also suitable for use on a variety of cooking surfaces, including stoves, ovens, grills, and even campfires, making them versatile cooking tools for both indoor and outdoor use.

    If you're cooking for a larger group or preparing large batches of food, a large or extra-large cast iron skillet is the best choice.  These griddles offer plenty of room to cook multiple portions at once, making them perfect for dishes like stir-fries, burritos, and even deep-dish pizza.  Large Cast Iron skillets and Extra Large Cast Iron Skillet size and ability to retain heat make them a great choice for outdoor cooking, whether on a grill or over an open fire.

Skillets and sauté pans are great for everyday cooking and are therefore best when made from durable and versatile material. While each type is available in an assortment of materials — stainless steel, nonstick surfaces, ceramic, cast iron, etc. — a single layer of material can’t provide all the functions needed for a variety of cooking. 

When making eggs or pancakes, you’re more likely to use a frying pan than a stockpot. You can fry various foods at high temperatures using a frying pan, as its name suggests.