Cast iron cookware, the name evokes the image of an antique pot, traditionally used in the kitchen of our grannies. Indeed, this wonderful cookware is a great cooking vessel that has been used extensively by our grandparents and now has successfully enchanted the modern users with its functionality, versatility and strength. Thus, the time might have changed, but its popularity remains the same. However, it is to be noted that over the time, two versions of cast iron cookware have developed- coated and uncoated cast iron.
Uncoated cast iron is also referred to as natural or bare cast iron, and coated cast iron is also called enamel or porcelain cast iron. Both these cookware are great cooking options, however, both of them have staggering differences that we have explained below.
Advantages of regular (uncoated) cast iron
Naturally non-stick – If you season cast iron cookware regularly and properly, nothing can compare to its non-stick quality.
Read more about seasoning here: Click here
Extremely durable – A regular cast iron cookware is nearly indestructible and will last for years if used properly.
More affordable – As compared to the enamel or ceramic coated options, an uncoated cast iron is much more affordable.
Versatile – Bare cast iron can easily be used on a stovetop, oven as well as the grill. Moreover, the new Meyer cast iron cookware such as Meyer cast iron tawa and iron skillet are gaining immense popularity due to their unbeatable strength and performance.
Advantages of coated cast iron
No seasoning required – They do not require any seasoning.
You can cook anything – Acidic food is usually not advised in bare cast iron cookware; this is not a problem with the enamel version where you can cook anything.
Comes in a variety of colours – Bare cast iron cookware generally come in the same black colour but enamel range comes in a variety of beautiful colours.
Discover the difference between a coated and an uncoated cast iron cookware:
Specifications | Coated Cast Iron | Uncoated Cast Iron |
Strength | Slightly fragile | Incredibly strong |
Seasoning | Not required | Frequent seasoning required |
Rusting | Doesn’t rust | Prone to rusting |
Maintenance | Easy to care | Needs a little maintenance |
Food Reactivity | You can cook anything | Is reactive to acidic food |
Colour | Available in various colour | Available in black hue |
Cooktop to be used | Not recommended for outdoor cooking | Compatible with all cooktops |
Dishwashing | Generally dishwasher safe | Not recommended for dishwashing |
We hope this will help you understand the differences and find out what suits best for your cooking style. Below are the names of the top cast iron cookware in India- coated and uncoated- to help you buy the best cast iron cookware for your kitchen.
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