Cast iron skillets are a beloved part of many kitchens thanks to their durability and excellent heat retention. They improve with age, building a natural seasoning that adds flavor to your dishes. From searing steaks to baking cornbread, they can do it all. But some foods just don’t work well with cast iron, and cooking them can damage your pan or affect your meal’s taste.
Acidic foods like tomatoes, vinegar-based sauces, or dishes rich in citrus can break down the seasoning layer. This not only harms your skillet but can leave a metallic taste on your food. Quick tomato sautés might be fine, but long cooking in tomato sauces or lemony braises should be done in stainless steel or enameled pots instead.
Delicate fish such as tilapia or sole also don’t handle the rough surface and high heat well. They tend to stick and break apart, leaving behind strong odors. For flaky fish, a nonstick or stainless steel pan is your best bet.
Sticky, sugary sauces like teriyaki or caramelized dishes can burn quickly on cast iron, ruining both your meal and the pan’s nonstick surface. Unless your skillet is very well seasoned, avoid these or use a nonstick pan.
Cooking eggs in cast iron can be tricky for beginners. Unless your pan has a very smooth seasoning, eggs might stick stubbornly. Nonstick skillets often make egg cooking easier.
Strongly flavored dishes with lots of garlic, curry, or fish can leave their scents in your pan, affecting sweeter recipes cooked afterward. Many cooks keep separate pans for sweet and savory cooking or deep clean after hearty meals.
Water-heavy methods like boiling or steaming can cause your cast iron to rust by damaging its seasoning. Use stainless steel or enameled cookware for these purposes.
Also avoid storing food in your cast iron skillet, especially acidic or moist leftovers, as this can degrade the seasoning and cause rust.
Finally, never pour cold water on a hot skillet or put cold food straight into a hot pan. Sudden temperature changes can crack or warp the metal.
Remember to dry your pan fully after washing, oil it lightly, avoid harsh soaps, and keep it stored in a dry place. With care, your cast iron skillet will last for generations, making every meal a delicious success.
