Cast Iron Cookware

Cast iron cookware is an excellent resource to have on hand for self-reliance and off-grid cooking. Its versatility and strength make this marvelous cookware invaluable. Hands down, it's the best way to prepare good, down-home cooking.

Innovative companies are constantly developing new types of nonstick cookware. While some of the new titanium cookware seems promising, it is also expensive  - more than $150 per pan at the time of this writing. If you're on a budget, cast aside those expensive notions and invest your money wisely in cast iron cookware instead. Here are some reasons why investing in cast iron is a smart move.

Cast Iron Is a Frugal Investment

For its beneficial use, quality of cooking, and longevity, there is no better value for your money out there. Cast iron is relatively inexpensive to purchase, lasts for years (decades, actually), and produces better quality food.

It's also healthy.  Iron is crucial to good health.  It helps the blood carry oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. And every time you cook with cast iron, some of that iron is absorbed into the food. It's a natural way to get your daily iron needs met.

Lodge has an excellent seasoned skillet you can find here.

Unfortunately, most of us don't get the daily amounts of iron we need. Not only do we not get enough in our diet, but we also drink way too much coffee and tea that inhibit the absorption of iron by the body, leaving us feeling tired.

Cooking with cast iron can change that. For most people, using cast iron pans to cook foods - especially sauces and foods that are cooked longer and frequently stirred - will provide a good portion of your daily need for iron.

Cast Iron Is an All-Natural Nonstick Cookware

Take care of your cast iron pans and season them on a regular basis, and your food won't stick. And unlike the modern nonstick pans out there, once food does start sticking, all you need to do is re-season it. No more throwing away old pans! It's a long-term value that can help save the planet.

Plus, many nonstick pans have a chemical coating that eventually flakes away - and into your food. Avoid those chemicals by investing in cast iron instead.

Cast Iron Cookware Means
Better Quality Cooking

Cast iron conducts heat evenly and holds it in, allowing you to cook either at low or high temperatures at a more uniform temperature.

And because cast iron retains heat, it keeps your food warm, even after you take the pan off the burner. 

Excellent Off the Grid Resource

If you're looking for a good method of off-the-grid cooking, you can't beat cast iron. You can use cast iron on wood-burning stoves or even over a campfire. Your sturdy cast iron can handle that direct heat just fine.

For an even better off-the-grid resource, consider investing in a camp Dutch oven. By placing coals directly on the lid of your Dutch oven as well as underneath, you can turn your oven into just that - an oven. You can do almost any kind of baking with a Dutch oven anywhere you have a fire pit. Invest in a large bag of coals, and keep those coals in a safe place out of the rain, and you're all set. Use your Dutch oven to cook stew, and then use the lid for frying bacon and eggs.

You'll quickly find that a camp Dutch oven is essential for both camp cooking and off-the-grid cooking use. 

You can buy an excellent camp Dutch oven here.

Related article: Dutch Oven recipes

It's Tough

Yes, cast iron will break, but it's pretty rare when it does. If a break is going to happen at all, it will be when you pour cold water into a hot skillet, causing the metal to stress over time. But normal wear and tear won't do anything to it.

Related article: How to care for your cast iron

Will Last for Generations

Unlike other cookware that gets worn with age, cast iron pans can be passed down from one generation to the next. If properly cared for, cast iron cookware can last 70 years or more. Imagine being able to give a much-loved skillet to your granddaughter someday and her being happy about it. No other cookware can make that claim.

Learn More About Frugal Cooking

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About the Author

My name is Sue Merriam, and I began the journey of self-reliant living more than three decades ago, which enabled me to stay home with my children. Fifteen years ago, I founded Joyful Homesteading to help others save money and face the future without fear. My goal is to give you practical, honest advice so you can save money and experience the joy of simple living. I hope you join me.

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