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Iron cookware is one of the most popular due to its ability to heat to an extremely high degree and retain its heat. It is also super-durable, rarely denting, breaking or scratching. Even with all of these qualities, there are some basic things to look for when shopping for cast iron cookware.
The first is keeping a lookout for an established brand name. You want to look for a brand that is highly recognized and one that has been around for a while. This way it is easy to see its track record when it comes to durability and longevity. With buying cast iron products, it should never have to be replaced in its lifetime. Brands such as Le Creuset, which has been around since 1925, are a good example in this.
Another thing to look for when buying a good quality cast iron pot or pan is handles. If your cast iron cookware doesn't have a cast iron handle, it may make the cookware potentially dangerous or even difficult to use. You want to find handles that are made from safe "heat-protectant" materials and those that are molded to the rest of the cookware. This will not only ensure safety, but it will also keep the handle from separating from the pan over time.
Next, you should find a product that has a good lid. Finding cast iron products that have a heavy iron, well-measured lid will ensure that no steam escapes in the cooking process. This is especially important when it comes to frying or steaming foods. In addition, since most cast iron cookware are stove top to oven, having a tight fitting iron lid will help when baking things in the oven. Having a tight fitting hood will ensure that all heat is distributed properly throughout the cookware.
Lastly, you want to look for quality. When purchasing cast iron cookware, you want to go with one that has no visible quality issues, such as pits, cracks, jagged edges, scratches or dents. These disfigurements will cause the cookware to not distribute heat correctly and may also cause the cookware to not season correctly.
