Tuesday, December 20, 2011

5 Versatile Uses For Your Cast Iron Skillet

The Cast iron skillet, is one of the most versatile pieces of country cookware.  Your parents of grandparents probably had several pieces of cast iron.  They were very popular back in those days.  This tool was known for the fact that it held heat longer and works well in the oven, over a flame or on a stove top. Here are five unexpected and delicious ideas for using a well seasoned cast iron skillet for your next meal.

You Can Bake A Cake
One of my grandmother's favorite recipes in the cast iron skillet was a "Pineapple Upside Down Cake."  You can find many recipes for this all over the internet.  One similar to the one that grandma made can be found at http://www.razorfamilyfarms.com/cooking/cast-iron-skillet-cake/. I have tried this recipe and it tastes almost like grandma's.  I no longer have her recipe but this is very close.
You Can Cook Steaks
Another popular idea for using the cast iron skillet is to cook steaks on a cast iron skilled which has been seasoned well.  You Heat the skillet to a high temperature on the stovetop and place your marinated or seasoned steak in the cast iron skillet and put under the broiler at about 500 Degrees.  After cooking this for about 5 minutes your steak should be tested to see if steak is done to your desired temperature.  This steak should taste just like a restaurant steak.

You Can Use Your Cast Iron Skillet On a Grill
Your cast iron skillet can be used to cook foods over a grill.  Just put items like peppers or onions in your skillet and cook them right on your grill for easy steak and cheese sandwiches.  You can also cook food in your skillet over a campfire while camping.  Because these skillets hold heat evenly they are perfect for this type of cooking.  You can cook your meats, beans, etc. for your meals or just an appetizer


Deep Dish Pizza
You can also use your skillet to make deep-dish pizza.  The pizza will come out just like the ones in the restaurant.  You can cook the pizza evenly as the heat remains consistent in the skillet.  You can add your own toppings and there you have a unique pizza of your own creation.  Homemade pizza can be made with ingredients on hand.

Use Your Skillet For Sandwiches
You can also use your skillet to make grilled cheese and Panini sandwiches.  These sandwiches are a popular favorite and these can be made anywhere you have cooking facilities.  therefore, if you are grilling, using a stove or campfire they are equally easy to make.

In conclusion these ideas can provide you a taste of some of the versatile use of the cast iron skillet.  As long as you take care of your skillet it will last you for many decades of enjoyment.  You can also cook more healthy meals as you do not need as much fat in your cooking.  You can probably come up with even more uses for your skillet.