If you are wondering what utensils can be used on cast iron and don’t want to ruin your shiny new cast iron cookware, read on, because we’ll help you along to find the answer.
Basically, any utensil that is safe to use on non-stick cookware can also be used on cast iron. Plastic, silicone, or wooden utensils are all safe to use. Avoid using metal utensils, as they can damage the pan. If food is stuck to the pan, use a non-metal scrub brush to clean it off. That’s in essence.
But, lets look a bit further into the matter.
Is It Ok To Use Metal Spatula On Cast Iron?
There are a lot of myths and misconceptions about cast iron cookware. Some people think that you can’t use metal utensils on it, while others believe that you have to season it every time you use it. The truth is that you can use metal utensils on cast iron, as long as you’re careful while doing so.
Cast iron is quite a durable material, but it can be easily scratched if you use hard, sharp metal utensils for cleaning and cooking. If you do use metal utensils, make sure that they are made specifically for cast iron cookware. Don’t use your everyday metal spatula – it will surely damage your pan in the long run.
The best way to protect your cast iron kitchenware is to just use a wooden or plastic spoon or spatula when cooking. If you do need to use a metal utensil, make sure it is soft and non-sharp.
What Kind Of Utensils To Use On Enameled Cast Iron
There are two main types of utensils that can be used with enameled cast iron: wooden and silicone. Silicone utensils are the best choice, because they won’t scratch the enamel coating. Wooden utensils can be used, but they should be avoided if possible, because they can damage the coating on non-stick cookware.
Wooden, silicone, or plastic utensils are the best options for cooking with cast iron. They will not damage the surface of the cookware, and they are safe to use at high temperatures. Bamboo utensils are also a good alternative for those who are looking for a natural material.
Be careful when using metal utensils with cast iron cookware, as they can scratch the enamel coating and cause the pot or pan to rust.
Best Type of Spatula For Cast Iron Cookware
There are a few things you need to consider when purchasing a spatula for use with cast iron cookware. The main thing to think about is the material the spatula is made from. The best materials for spatulas for use with cast iron cookware are silicone, wooded and plastic.
Silicone spatulas are heat resistant and will not scratch your cookware. They are also non-stick, which makes them easy to clean. Wooden spatulas are very gentle to your cookware. However, they can become damaged or crack if they are used to cook hot food and get heavy usage for longer periods of time.
Plastic spatulas are the least heat resistant, so they are not the best choice for this purpose. Silicone spatulas, which are made from heat-resistant silicone rubber, are a better option for stirring hot food while cooking.
The spatula should be flexible enough to fit easily into all the nooks and crannies of the cookware, but also thick enough, so that it doesn’t bend or break when working on heavier or harder items.
Can You Use Plastic Utensils On Cast Iron?
The short answer is yes – you can use plastic utensils on cast iron cookware.
When you use plastic cooking tools, they can warp, melt or bend if the material is not of high quality. So, make sure to pick a reputable brand for your plastic utensils.
Overall, plastic utensils are a good option as they won’t damage the cookware and they’re also safe to use on non-stick surfaces, but it’s not the best type out there and is not always recommended.
Can You Use Wooden Spoons On Cast Iron
Yes, you can use wooden spoons on cast iron skillets.
Though, there is some debate about whether or not you can use them cast iron skillets. Some people think that the wooden spoon can warp or break over time. Others argue that it’s perfectly safe to use wooden spoons on cast iron, as long as you’re gentle and not going overboard with the usage.
You can use wooden spoons on cast iron given that you’re careful not to scratch the pan by using too much force while cooking or scraping your cookware.
How To Season Your Cast Iron Cookware
Cast iron cookware is a great way to cook food because it retains heat well and distributes it evenly. However, like all cast iron cookware, it needs to be seasoned before you can use it. Seasoning cast iron cookware is simple and doesn’t need much efforts.
Here are the steps to help you season your cast iron cookware like a pro:
– Start by cleaning your cookware with hot, soapy water. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
– Apply a light coating of vegetable oil to the inside and outside of your cookware.
– Place your cookware on the stove over medium heat.
– Heat the oil until it is melted and begins to smoke a bit.
– Turn off the heat and let the cookware cool.
– Wipe off any excess oil with a paper towel.
How To Clean Your Cast Iron Cookware
Cast iron cookware is a great addition to any kitchen, however, it does require some care to keep it in good condition.
To clean your cast iron cookware, start by scrubbing off any food or grease with a stiff brush.
Rinse it off with hot water, and then dry it thoroughly.
Next, apply a light coating of vegetable or cooking oil to all surfaces of the pan. Store it in a cool, dry place.
Cast Iron Cookware Storage Tips
Cast iron cookware can be a bit tricky to store if you are inexperienced, lack proper space or live in a small apartment. Here are a few tips to help keep your cast iron in perfect shape:
- Store your cast iron cookware in a dry place, like on a shelf in the garage or in a shed.
- Avoid storing your cast iron near areas with a lot of moisture or humidity.
- If you’re not using your cast iron cookware, store it in a dry place with a light coating of vegetable oil or cooking spray.
- Avoid stacking your cast iron cookware on top of each other, as this can lead to damage and rusting.
- Don’t store your cast iron cookware in the pantry or cupboard. The humidity and moisture in those areas will cause your cast iron to rust.
- Make sure your cast iron is completely dry before putting it away. If it’s still wet, it could rust when stored for long periods of time.
- If your cast iron skillet or Dutch oven starts to rust, don’t freak out. You can use some steel wool to scrub it off and then re-season it.
Final Thoughts
It can be a little tricky to figure out what utensils can be used on cast iron cookware, so we hope our guide above has been useful and will help you find the right answer.
In summary you can use most types of cleaning and cooking tools, whether they are metal, wooden or plastic, given that you are careful and don’t apply too much force in the process. Though, it is recommended to mostly use wooden, plastic and silicone utensils and avoid metal utensils in order to avoid damage on your cast iron cookware.
If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please leave us a comment below.
Additional Questions
What utensils can you use on cast iron?
The incredible durability of cast iron permits the usage of any utensil – namely, silicone, wooden, or metal. Traditionally, there has been a misconception about not being able to use cast iron cookware on glass-top stoves, which is simply not true.
Speaking from personal experience, I’ve found cast iron to be a fantastic and forgiving material to cook with – forgiving in the sense that it tolerates a wide range of utensils. More than that, it adds a charming, rustic flare to your kitchen. It results in delicious meals and is well tolerated by almost all cooking surfaces, including the often-debated glass-top stoves.
What utensils do you use with enameled cast iron?
When dealing with enameled cast iron, it’s a wise move to stick with silicone or wooden utensils; you might want to reserve your metal spatulas for your regular cast iron skillet, or your seasoned carbon steel pans.
In my line of work, I’ve found that while enameled cast iron is resilient, it’s better to err on the side of caution to prevent any potential damage. Silicone and wooden utensils are gentle on the surface, but still enable you to accomplish your culinary tasks efficiently. Additionally, seasoned carbon steel pans handle metal utensils quite well, showcasing the versatility of this material for different types of cookware.
Can I use a metal scraper on cast iron?
Absolutely, you can deploy a metal scraper to clean a cast iron pan. You merely need to apply sufficient force to dislodge any stuck-on food without damaging the pan. While cast iron is undoubtedly robust, it isn’t entirely invincible.
During my adventures in the kitchen, I have, on multiple occasions, found a metal scraper to be an indispensable tool, especially when cleaning a cast iron pan. The trick to avoid damaging the cast iron lies in perfecting the balance between force and gentleness. It’s akin to mastering a culinary artwork – knowing the exact moment to stir, flip, or simmer. And nothing can replace the tactile feedback you get when the scraper perfectly takes off the grime, leaving a clean, ready-to-use pan behind.
Are bamboo utensils good for cast iron?
Indeed, bamboo utensils are an excellent companion for cast iron. They don’t scratch the surface, are heat-resistant, lightweight, and easy to clean, making them an apt choice for your cast iron cookware.
For someone who favors the tradition of cooking with cast iron, I can confidently say that bamboo utensils are a match made in culinary heaven for this material. The unique advantages that bamboo offers, such as not transferring heat or scratching, benefit the longevity and performance of cast iron tremendously. Plus, their lightness of weight makes cooking a breeze, allowing you to maneuver with ease while you create your gastronomic masterpiece.