The kitchen is often considered the heart of a home, and a good cast iron skillet is a staple in many kitchens. However, with so many options available on the market, how do you know which one to choose? Consumer Reports conducted a review of 16 cast iron skillets and recommended the Lodge Chef Collection 12 Inch Cast Iron Skillet as the best option.
After more than 70 collective hours of research and testing since 2014, Consumer Reports found that the Lodge Chef Collection 12 Inch Cast Iron Skillet was lightweight, seared well, and had a comfortable handle. Additionally, it was reasonably priced and had a smooth cooking surface. Other top performers included the Le Creuset Signature Iron Handle Skillet and the Victoria 12-inch Cast Iron Skillet.
However, it's important to note that not all cast iron skillets are created equal. In 2019, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and Macy's Merchandising Group in New York City announced a recall of Martha Stewart Collection Enamel Coated Cast Iron Casseroles due to reports of the enamel coating cracking and potentially causing injury.
When it comes to caring for your cast iron skillet, there are a few tips to keep in mind. Firstly, it's important to season your skillet before first use and periodically thereafter. This involves applying a thin layer of oil and heating the skillet in the oven. Secondly, avoid using metal utensils on the skillet, as this can cause scratches and damage the seasoning. Finally, avoid using nonstick cooking sprays on your cast iron skillet, as they can damage the nonstick coating.
In addition to cast iron skillets, Consumer Reports also reviewed cookware from celebrity chefs Rachael Ray and Ayesha Curry. Both chefs have product lines that include nonstick and stainless steel cookware. In the review, Consumer Reports found that the Rachael Ray Cucina Hard Anodized Nonstick 12-Piece Cookware Set was a top performer, while the Ayesha Curry Home Collection Stainless Steel 10-Piece Cookware Set was a bit less impressive.
While choosing the right cookware is important, it's also crucial to take care of your body while cooking. Arthritis is a common issue, particularly among older adults, and can make cooking painful. However, an outpatient procedure called cooled radio-frequency ablation has been found to reduce pain by more than 80% in people with moderate to severe arthritis in the knee and hip.
In summary, when choosing a cast iron skillet, it's important to consider factors such as weight, searing ability, and comfort of the handle. Additionally, it's important to properly care for your skillet by seasoning it, avoiding metal utensils, and avoiding nonstick cooking sprays. Finally, it's important to take care of your body while cooking and seek medical treatment if necessary.
