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Ceramic Pan vs. Cast Iron – Determining Which Is Best For You

By Sandra Hill February 4, 2021

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Having a hard time choosing between ceramic pans and cast iron? Then keep reading to know the pros and cons of both options.

Choosing the best cookware set is not an easy task. After all, there are plenty of pots and pans to pick from. Two of the most popular options are ceramic and cast iron pans. Both options have their strengths and weaknesses, but how do you know which cookware is the right option for you? It’s easy! You just need to learn more about the cookware so that you can make the best decision. We have listed the pros and cons of ceramic and cast iron pans to make it easier for you to compare the two.

ceramic pan vs cast iron

Pros and Cons of Cast Iron Pans

Cast iron pans can handle just about any cooking method. You can use it to bake cakes for dessert or sear meats for dinner. As long as your pan is seasoned well, you will be able to use it for a long time.

Durable

Cast iron pans are made of a durable alloy of carbon and steel, so it can last a lifetime as long as it is properly maintained. The best thing about this cookware is that it gets better with age. You can use it for braising, baking, searing, or sautéing. Cast iron pans are practically indestructible. If you’re looking for something that you can pass down to your grandkids or great-grandkids, then you should consider getting a cast iron pan.

Affordable

Considering the cost of stainless steel or aluminum cookware, cast iron pans and pots are inexpensive. You can buy a cast iron wok for less than 30 bucks. Since it’s versatile and virtually indestructible, you can save a lot of money because you don’t need to buy a new pan often.

Retains Heat

Cast iron maintains a consistent temperature once heated. Some metals experience a significant drop in temperature when you put food in the pan. But that’s not the case with cast iron. It will stay hot once it is heated. So if you love pizza and you want to make that crispy crust, then you should consider getting a cast iron pan.

Non-stick Property

Cast iron pans have non-stick properties. When properly cared for and seasoned, it will develop a solid layer of seasoning that will prevent food from sticking. Since it is non-stick, it is easy to clean. Aside from this, cast iron fortifies your food with iron. This is particularly beneficial for pregnant moms or menstruating females.

Poor Heat Conductor

Unfortunately, cast iron is a poor conductor of heat. It won’t heat evenly if you are using a burner that is smaller than the cookware. To prevent this from happening, make sure to use a burner similar in size to the pan.

Too Heavy

Cast iron pans are extremely heavy, which makes them hard to move around. That’s why you need to consider the size of the pan when buying cookware. It should be manageable enough that you will want to use the pan regularly.

Require Seasoning

Cast iron cookware requires seasoning. Many cast iron pans come pre-seasoned, but it’s still a good idea to season your pan before using it. Seasoning cast iron is a simple process. Once you build up a good seasoning layer, your pan will be more resistant to rust and corrosion, and even acidic foods.

Pros and Cons of Ceramic Pans

You will find two kinds of ceramic cookware: ceramic-coated cookware and one made from quartz sand, clay, and other natural minerals. Ceramic-coated cookware contains a metal core. Both kinds of ceramic cookware have strengths and weaknesses that you should know before you buy one.

Non-toxic and Non-stick

Ceramic pans are more eco-friendly and safer than Teflon-coated non-stick cookware. The material used to make ceramic coating is made from natural sand, so it doesn’t contain dangerous chemicals such as lead and cadmium. Ceramic pans are naturally non-stick, so you won’t have any problem flipping pancakes or cooking delicate foods. Cleanup is also fast. You only need to wipe the pan with soapy water and a clean cloth.

Not Affected by Acidic Foods

You can’t cook acidic food on carbon steel and copper pans. That’s because it will react with the pan’s cooking surface and leach metals and chemicals into the food. That’s not the case with ceramic pans because they can withstand acidic foods like citrus fruits, vinegar, and tomatoes.

Lightweight and Low Maintenance

If you’re looking for lightweight cookware, then you should consider getting a ceramic frying pan. It’s lighter and easier to maneuver than cast iron. Aside from this, ceramic pans are easy to clean. You only need to wash them with soap and water. And unlike cast iron, ceramic cookware doesn’t have complicated seasoning requirements.

Less Durable than Non-stick Pans

Ceramic pans are less durable than non-stick pans. The ceramic coating will eventually break down, and once it happens, you need to replace the cookware. Ceramic pans may also warp if exposed to sudden temperature changes. The non-stick coating of ceramic pans can wear off quickly, leaving the surface sticky and hard to clean.

Medium or Low Heat Only

Ceramic pans must be used with medium or low heat only because high temperatures can damage the pan’s coating. Aside from this, you can’t use metal utensils on ceramic pans because this kind of cookware is more delicate than stainless steel pans. If you don’t want to damage the pan’s interior, then you should only use nylon or wooden utensils.

Conclusion

The best cookware depends on your personal choice and needs. If you want versatile cookware, then you should consider getting a cast iron pan. But if you’re just looking for something simple to use, then a ceramic pan is a good option. Regardless of your choice, always make sure to look at the cookware’s quality first.

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