If you’re like most people, you probably have a few pieces of cast iron cookware in your kitchen.

Cast iron is a great material for cookware because it heats evenly and retains heat well.

However, over time, the seasoning on your cast iron can wear off and start to rust.

If this happens, you may consider switching to enameled cast iron cookware.

Enameled cast iron cookware is similar to regular cast iron, but it has a porcelain coating that protects the metal from corrosion and makes it easier to clean.

So, which is better: cast iron or enameled cast iron?

In this blog post, we will compare the two materials and help you decide which is the better choice.

What is Cast Iron Cookware?

Cast iron cookware is pieces of cookware that are made from cast iron.

Cast iron is a metal alloy that consists primarily of iron, with small amounts of carbon and other elements added for strength and durability.

It is highly durable, heats evenly, and retains heat well, making it an ideal material for cookware if you want slow cooking, such as braising, roasting, and baking.

Advantages of Cast Iron Cookware

1. Highly durable. Cast iron is highly resistant to damage, wear, and corrosion.

It won’t easily warp or crack from long-term use or high temperatures.

2. Evenly heats. Cast iron cookware distributes heat evenly across the surface, which helps to ensure that food is cooked evenly.

This makes it good for cooking foods like pancakes and omelets that need to be cooked evenly.

3. Retains heat. Cast iron is a great material for slow cooking because it retains heat even after you turn off the stove or oven.  

It does this by absorbing and radiating heat back into the environment.

4. Low cost. Cast iron is quite inexpensive compared to other types of cookware, making it a great option for budget-conscious cooks.

5. Versatile. Cast iron cookware can be used on the stovetop, in the oven, or over a campfire.

You don’t have to worry about it melting in high temperatures.

Disadvantages of Cast Iron Cookware

1. It’s heavy. Cast iron is very heavy and can be difficult to maneuver.

So, if you have weak wrists or tend to drop things, you should choose a lighter material.

2. It needs to be seasoned regularly. Cast iron cookware must be regularly seasoned to prevent rust and maintain its non-stick properties.

This may be an issue for people who don’t have the time or patience to do it.

3. It can rust if not taken care of properly. If you don’t season your cast iron cookware regularly, it can start to rust since it’s not as corrosion-resistant as other types of cookware.

4. It can be difficult to clean. Without the proper care, cast iron can be difficult to clean and end up with a sticky residue.

It can also stain easily if it is not cleaned properly.

So there may be better choices than cast iron if you’re looking for something easy to clean.

What is Enameled Cast Iron Cookware?

Enameled cast iron cookware is similar to regular cast iron but with a porcelain coating.

The porcelain coating is a protective layer that guards the metal against corrosion and makes it easier to clean.

Advantages of Enameled Cast Iron Cookware

1. Highly durable. Like regular cast iron, enameled cast iron is highly resistant to wear and corrosion.

You’ll get years of use out of this type of cookware.

2. Non-stick. The porcelain coating provides a non-stick surface, making cooking easier as there’s no need to worry about food sticking.

You don’t have to worry about seasoning your cookware using enameled cast iron.

3. Easier to clean. The porcelain coating on enameled cast iron cookware makes cleaning it much easier because it doesn’t require seasoning like regular cast iron.

Enameled cookware is the way to go if you’re looking for a hassle-free alternative to cast iron.

4. Resistant to rust and corrosion. The porcelain coating on enameled cast iron cookware prevents it from rusting or corroding.

So you don’t have to worry about rusting if you don’t season it regularly.

5. Retains heat just as well as cast iron. Despite its porcelain coating, enameled cast iron retains heat just as well as regular cast iron.

Disadvantages of Enameled Cast Iron Cookware

1. Expensive. Enameled cast iron cookware tends to be more expensive than regular cast iron.

2. Not as versatile as regular cast iron. Enameled cast iron cookware can’t be used on the stovetop, over a campfire, or in an open flame.

3. Porcelain coating can chip over time. The porcelain coating on enameled cast iron cookware can start to chip over time.

4. More fragile than regular cast iron. Enameled cast iron is more fragile than regular cast iron and can break if dropped.

This is because the porcelain coating is more brittle than the metal itself.

What Is The Difference Between Cast Iron Cookware And Enameled Cookware?

The difference between cast iron and enameled cast iron cookware is quite clear now.

Regular cast iron cookware is highly durable, retains heat well, and can be used on the stovetop, in the oven, or over a campfire.

However, cleaning can be difficult and needs to be seasoned regularly.

Enameled cast iron cookware is easier to clean due to its porcelain coating, but it is more expensive and less versatile than regular cast iron.

Style and design

Enameled cast iron comes in various colors and styles to suit your kitchen décor.  

Regular cast iron cookware typically comes in a classic black design, so if you prefer something more colorful or stylish, enameled cast iron is the way to go.

Compatibility with cooktops

Both regular cast iron and enameled cast iron are compatible with all cooktops, including electric, gas, and induction.

However, enameled cast iron should not be used in open flames or over a campfire.

This is because extreme temperatures can damage the porcelain coating.

Cooking experience

Both regular cast iron and enameled cast iron cookware provide a great cooking experience.

Regular cast iron can give you the classic “seared” flavor you get from frying or sautéing, and enameled cast iron is a great choice for slow-cooking dishes like stews, roasts, and casseroles.

Regular cast iron cookware needs seasoning to make it non-stick and prevent rust, while enameled cast iron cookware does not need to be seasoned and is more resistant to rust.

Thermal shock

Cast iron can handle high temperatures but should not be exposed to sudden temperature changes.

This is known as thermal shock and can cause the cookware to crack or break.

Enameled cast iron is more tolerant of sudden temperature changes and is less likely to be damaged from thermal shock.

So it’s important to cool your cast iron cookware for a few minutes before washing it with cold water.

Enameled cast iron is less likely to be damaged by thermal shock, but it’s still important to let it cool down before washing it.

Reaction to Cleaning agents

Cast iron cookware is generally not affected by regular dish soap, but it can be corroded if harsh chemicals like bleach are used.

Enameled cast iron is less likely to be corroded by harsh chemicals, but it is still best to avoid using them.

Typically, nylon and soft abrasive pads are recommended to clean cast iron cookware and keep the surface intact.

Metallic pads or steel wool should not be used, as they can damage the surface of both regular and enameled cast iron cookware.

Using abrasive cleaning agents may also prevent the development of a natural patina which can help to season the pan and make it non-stick.

How?

A natural patina is created when cooking oils are baked onto the pan’s surface.

This helps to create a non-stick surface which is also more resistant to rust.

Regular use of detergents and abrasive pads can prevent the development of this patina by removing the oils before they have a chance to build up.

Is it safe to use cast iron cookware?

Yes, cast iron cookware is safe to use. When seasoned properly, it is nonstick and prevents food from sticking to the surface.

It is also highly durable and resistant to wear and corrosion.

However, it is important to maintain regular seasoning to prevent rusting and ensure its non-stick properties.

Additionally, it is important to handle the cookware with care to avoid any breakage or damage.

Do Cast iron pans really add iron to your food?

Yes, cast iron pans can add iron to your food.

As the pan is heated, it releases small amounts of iron into the cooking food.

This can help boost the iron content of your meals, especially for those with a low-iron diet.

Additionally, the heat from the pan helps activate the iron already present in the food, which helps to make it easier for your body to absorb and use the iron.

In studies, researchers found that spaghetti sauce cooked in cast iron skillets increased the iron content from 2mg to 5mg.

This can be useful to people with iron deficiencies or anemia.

However, it is important to note that this effect only applies if the cast iron pan is well-seasoned and properly maintained.

Is Getting Iron from Cast Iron Cookware Healthy?

The body does not as easily absorb the nonheme iron found in cast iron cookware as heme iron.

Nonheme iron typically makes up 40-50% of the iron in food cooked using cast iron cookware.

Despite this, getting iron from cast iron cookware is still healthy and beneficial for several reasons.

For starters, the iron content in food cooked using cast iron cookware can benefit those with anemia or low-iron diets.

Additionally, the heat generated from a cast iron skillet can help activate the iron already present in food, making it easier for your body to absorb and use.

Finally, according to the American Dietetic Association, foods cooked in cast iron can provide up to 20% more iron than those cooked in other materials.

Can you cook acidic foods in cast iron cookware?

Contrary to popular belief, you can cook acidic foods in your cast iron pan.

 Acidic foods, such as tomato sauce, can still be cooked in cast iron cookware without causing any damage or discoloration.

However, it is important to note that your pan’s seasoning may change over time, so it’s important to re-season your cookware regularly.

Additionally, acidic foods can help to loosen any rust or build-up in the pan.

This makes it easier for you to scrub and remove the rust when re-seasoning your pan.

How safe is enameled cast iron cookware?

Enameled cast iron cookware is generally safe to use if it is free from any damage or chips.

The porcelain coating helps protect the food from any harmful chemicals that may be present in regular cast iron cookware.

Additionally, it is important to handle and clean the enameled cast iron cookware with care to avoid any breakage or damage.

When handled and maintained properly, enameled cast iron cookware is a safe and healthy option for cooking.

Does enameled cast iron have lead?

Enameled cast iron does not contain lead.

The porcelain coating that covers the cast iron is lead-free and safe for cooking.

However, it is important to inspect the cookware for any chips, scratches, or other damage that could have exposed the cast iron underneath.

If there is any visible damage, it is best to avoid using the cookware and replace it with a new piece.

Cast Iron vs Enameled Cast Iron: Which is better?

So, which is better: cast iron or enameled cast iron?

The answer really depends on your needs and preferences.

Both materials are safe and effective for cooking, but they have their own advantages and disadvantages.

Regular cast iron cookware is more affordable, durable, and heat-resistant.

Additionally, it helps to add iron to your food, making it beneficial for those with an iron deficiency or anemia.

On the other hand, enameled cast iron cookware is easier to clean and does not require regular seasoning.

However, it is more expensive and can be more easily damaged.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both regular cast iron and enameled cast iron cookware are safe and effective options for cooking.

It really depends on your needs and preferences.

Regular cast iron is more affordable, durable, and helps to add iron to food, while enameled cast iron is easier to clean and does not require regular seasoning.