Professional chefs and food scientists list foods to avoid in cast iron

Cast iron skillets are a popular cookware item, known for their durability and even heat distribution. However, there are certain foods that should never be cooked in a cast iron skillet. In this article, we will discuss eight such foods that should be avoided when cooking with cast iron.

1. Fish: Cooking fish in a cast iron skillet can leave a fishy aftertaste in the pan that is difficult to remove. Additionally, fish is delicate and can stick to the surface of a cast iron skillet, making it difficult to flip or remove from the pan.

2. Eggs: Cast iron skillets are not the best choice for cooking eggs as they tend to stick to the pan. This can make it difficult to get the eggs to cook evenly and can lead to frustration when trying to flip them.

3. Tomatoes: The acidity in tomatoes can react with the iron in the skillet, causing the food to taste metallic. Additionally, the acid in tomatoes can strip the seasoning off the cast iron pan, making it more difficult to cook with in the future.

4. Wine-Braised Meats: Cooking meats with wine or vinegar in a cast iron skillet is not a good idea as it can strip the seasoning off the pan, leaving it vulnerable to rust and corrosion.

5. Citrus Fruits: Like tomatoes, the acidity in citrus fruits can react with the iron in the skillet, causing the food to taste metallic. Additionally, the acid in citrus fruits can strip the seasoning off the cast iron pan.

6. Sticky or Starchy Foods: Foods like pancakes or starchy sauces can stick to the surface of cast iron pans, making them difficult to remove or flip. These foods are best cooked in a non-stick pan instead.

7. Delicate Desserts: Delicate desserts like cakes or soufflés should not be cooked in cast iron pans as they tend to stick to the surface of the pan. This can ruin the delicate texture of the dessert and make it difficult to remove from the pan.

8. Dairy Products: Cooking dairy products like cheese or cream in cast iron pans can cause the protein in the dairy to stick to the surface of the pan, making it difficult to clean. Additionally, the acid in dairy products can react with the iron in the skillet, causing the food to taste metallic.

In conclusion, while cast iron skillets are a great choice for many foods, there are certain foods that should be avoided when cooking with cast iron. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your cast iron skillet remains in good condition and continue to provide excellent meals for years to come.