Versatile cast iron cookware, to last a lifetime.

Heavy, expensive, French – all these things are often true of cast iron cookware, but this is also true; you need it in your culinary life.

The best cast iron is still made in France, in the traditional way. Molten cast iron is poured into a unique sand cast, which is then destroyed after each cast. As a result, each pot is a unique, artisan product. The best brands are Staub, Le Cresuet and Chasseur.

 

Why is cast iron such a good material for cooking with?

Cast iron offers the best heat conduction and retention properties, far superior to stainless steel or aluminium. What this means for the cook, is that stews and sauces can be left to cook slowly on almost the lowest of heat settings. Meats can be seared to perfection on a higher heat setting, and then the enamelled interior means that all the juicy, sticky bits created whilst searing, can then be transformed into a tasty sauce or gravy, by deglazing the pan. Cast iron is also ideal for one pot cooking, as it is suitable for all hobs (including induction) and ovens. Effectively, this means less washing up, always a bonus!

On a slightly less practical, but no less important point, cast iron cookware is also some of the most attractive cookware out. Available in a rainbow of colours to suit any interior décor scheme, you can be sure to find the right colour for your home. Staub even do a pumpkin shaped pot, perfect for autumnal gatherings.

 

 

1st Best Buy: Staub 11cm Casserole Fast becoming a modern classic, this little pot is ideal for use at dinner parties for starters and individual stews. Not to be confused with ceramic alternatives, this cast iron pot can be used in the oven and on the hob, for the best results, every time	Staub 11cm Oval Casserole
2nd Best Buy: Le Creuset 30cm Buffet Casserole This super versatile, stunning pan is practical for both cooking and serving, making it ideal for oven to table use. It’s wide, shallow shape, also makes it an ideal pan for risotto, where the superb heat retention properties come in really handy	Le Creuset 30cm Buffet Casserole
3rd Best Buy: Chasseur Crepe Pan The best crepes require a crepe pan. This specialist pan is very shallow, making it ideal for not only crepes, but also more traditional pancakes, crumpets and drop scones. And the superb heat conduction offered by the cast iron ensures the best results, every time!	Chasseur Crepe Pan

 

So whether it’s Staub, Le Creuset or Chasseur, you can be sure that when you buy a piece of cast iron, you are investing in a versatile pan to last a lifetime.