How to clean: Detergents strip the seasoning. Instead, wipe clean or scrub with hot water. For stuck-on bits, rub with 1/2 cup kosher salt, then rinse.

    When it comes to using a cast iron Dutch oven, the possibilities are endless.  From soups and stews to roasts and breads, this kitchen workhorse can do it all.  Dutch oven ability to evenly distribute heat makes it ideal for slow cooking and stewing, resulting in tender, flavorful dishes.  Plus, the Dutch oven's tight-fitting lid helps lock in moisture and flavor, making it ideal for making delicious one-pot meals.

Lightweight Enameled Cast Iron Cookware And Heavy Enamel Cookware

The geometry of a pan can affect how easily moisture is driven off of food, and how rapidly a sauce will reduce. It's often claimed that the sloped sides of a skillet help moisture exuded by cooking meats evaporate more rapidly, allowing you to sear more efficiently. And this is true, but only given the same cooking area. In other words, a 12-inch skillet with a 10-inch cooking area will sear foods more efficiently than a 10-inch sauté pan. The corollary to this, of course, is that, given an equal amount of food that needs searing over super-high heat (some steaks, for example), the large surface area of a sauté pan does not offer any significant advantages over a skillet—you'll still have to cook in just as many batches.

This pan has a flat bottom and flared edges that may be slightly curved. It is often used for cooking. Some skillets, such as copper, cast iron, or aluminum, are coated with a nonstick coating to make cleanup easier.

In addition, skillets and pans are available in very similar sizes (typically 8-inch, 10-inch, or 12-inch diameters) and materials (stainless steel, aluminum, multi-ply, and nonstick coating). 

Big black cast iron skillets are a staple in kitchens, offering versatility, durability, and exceptional heat retention. This article explores the features, applications, and benefits of big black cast iron skillets, highlighting their ability to handle a wide range of cooking tasks and enhance culinary creations.

The benefit of a French skillet is that it is ideal for frying large quantities of food or making stews and sauces that require simmering. Its higher straight sides make it easier to cook with more liquid, while its broader base allows for even heat distribution. French skillets are versatile and can be used for various cooking tasks.