10 Things You Should Never Cook in Cast Iron

Avoid Cooking Fish Directly in Your Skillet

Cooking fish directly in your skillet can lead to sticking, especially with the skin, making flipping a challenge and resulting in an unappetizing dish. Opt for a stainless steel fry pan or nonstick skillet instead.

Don't Cook Eggs in Your Cast Iron Skillet

Eggs tend to stick to cast iron, causing frustration and a messy cleanup. Even sunny-side-up eggs can turn over-hard due to the skillet's high heat retention.

Stay Away from Acidic Foods

Acidic foods like tomatoes or those with citrus juices can impart a metallic taste to your dishes and may raise health concerns by leaching excess iron into your food.

Reserve Your Cast Iron for Savory Dishes

Using the same skillet for both savory and sweet foods can lead to flavor absorption and affect the taste of your desserts. Sticky desserts can also burn quickly and create a difficult cleanup.

Avoid Using Sharp Utensils

Scraping or cutting with sharp utensils can damage the seasoning of your cast iron, leading to rust. Opt for wooden or silicone utensils instead.

Don t Neglect Your Cast Iron

Ignoring your cast iron skillet or giving it away out of frustration can deprive you of its potential. Explore recipes and care methods online to make the most of it.

Never Let Your Cast Iron Soak in Water

Extended exposure to moisture can cause rusting, affecting both the inside and outside of your skillet. Promptly dry and lightly oil your skillet after cleaning to prevent rust.

Avoid Air Drying Your Cast Iron

Leaving your skillet in humid conditions or exposed to dew can accelerate oxidation and rust formation. Store it in a dry place to maintain its quality.

Keep Your Cast Iron Out of the Dishwasher

Dishwashing can strip away the seasoning of your cast iron, leading to rust. Stick to handwashing with water and avoid soap to preserve its seasoning.

Never Add Cold Water to a Hot Pan

Sudden temperature changes can warp or crack your cast iron skillet. Always add liquids at lukewarm or tepid temperatures to avoid damage.