I regularly see posts across the “Mom” Facebook groups that I follow, asking what are the best cooking pans out there. I’ve been married for 10 years and I have tried them all: cheap non-stick, pricier non-stick, stainless steel and cast iron.
For the longest time I have had a set of cast iron collecting dust in my cupboards while I used others because I found them intimidating.
[pinterest count=”horizontal”]
One day, when I was tired of fighting with my stainless steel set to keep things from sticking, I started researching what a good alternative would be – and one that was also more health friendly – and, bonus points if I didn’t have to replace my skillets every couple of years.
I know, I know…it’s a BIG ask.
I read A LOT information about non-stick and the particles that it releases into the food especially when it starts peeling off (which happened fast with both my sets).
When I researched cast iron, it turned out that it’s even good for you because it releases trace amounts of iron into the food and, as it turns out, it is not as hard to take care of: Just scrub with salt, heat up, and oil every use. Season from time to time and voila!
Way easier and cheaper than replacing them often!
So instead of spending more money on a set, I decided to start using the cast iron skillets I already had.
BEST.DECISION.EVER!
It’s been close to 4 years and our cast iron skillets are still going strong. {I did keep my stainless steel saucepans and bigger pot, so together I have a good set that will last a few years!}
Bonus: After I started using cast iron skillets, I looked into replacing my baking sheets. I had non-stick ones and it was SO HARD to keep them from scratching. They looked horrible within a few months and I was getting tired of having to replace them, until I decided to try stainless steel.
One baking sheet was $16, which is on the high side, but I figured if it will last longer than a few months it will be worth it!
Let me tell you, I LOVE them so much that I just ordered a set of 4 – with their cooling racks – at a much better deal $36 for all of it! If something gets stuck I can use a wire scrubby and even though they get a little scratched there is no peeling or toxins getting into our food.
I’ve had the first one I bought for 8 months now and with a little elbow grease and my trusty Dawn dish soap I can leave it looking good as new after every use!
Here’s to no having to replace cook wear every few months or couple of years!
Have you tried cast iron skillets or stainless steel baking sheets? Do you like them? What is your favorite kind or cook/bakeware?
