Editorial Team

Restoring Cast Iron

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If you’ve inherited an old cast iron pan or stumbled upon one at a garage sale, you may be wondering how to restore it to its former glory. While it may seem intimidating at first, restoring a cast iron pan is actually a fairly simple process that can be accomplished with a few basic tools and a little bit of elbow grease.

Here’s how to do it:

Remove the rust: The first step in restoring a rusty cast iron pan is to remove as much of the rust as possible. You can do this by using a wire brush, sandpaper, or steel wool to scrub off the rust. If the rust is particularly stubborn, you may need to use a mixture of equal parts water and vinegar and bring it to a boil in the pan. Once the mixture has come to a boil, use a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape off the rust.

Clean the pan: Once you have removed as much of the rust as possible, it’s time to give the pan a good cleaning. Wash the pan with hot, soapy water and a scrub brush, and rinse it thoroughly. Be sure to remove all traces of soap, as it can interfere with the seasoning process.

Dry the pan: After washing and rinsing the pan, it’s important to dry it completely. You can do this by towel-drying it or by heating it over a low heat setting on the stovetop.

Season the pan: Once the pan is clean and dry, it’s time to season it. This involves applying a thin layer of oil to the surface of the pan and heating it in the oven to form a protective layer. You can use any type of oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or coconut oil. To season the pan, simply brush a thin layer of oil over the surface of the pan and place it in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and bake the pan for one hour. After an hour, turn off the oven and allow the pan to cool completely inside. This will help to ensure that the seasoning process is thorough and that the oil has had a chance to bond with the surface of the pan.

Store the pan: Once the pan is seasoned, it’s ready to use. Be sure to store it in a dry place to prevent rust from forming again. You can also use a paper towel or cloth to wipe a thin layer of oil over the surface of the pan before storing it, which will help to protect it from moisture and rust.
By following these steps, you can restore an old or rusty cast iron pan to its former glory and enjoy delicious, well-cooked meals for years to come.

With a little bit of care and attention, your restored cast iron pan will quickly become an indispensable part of your kitchen. Happy cooking!

Instant Pot – My favorite kitchen tool!

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An Instant Pot is an electric pressure cooker that is designed to cook food quickly and efficiently. It has a number of built-in programs that allow you to cook a variety of dishes, including soups, stews, rice, beans, and more. The Instant Pot uses a combination of pressure cooking and high heat to cook food quickly, and it has a number of safety features to prevent accidents or injuries.

There are several reasons why you might want to own an Instant Pot. One reason is that it can save you time in the kitchen, as it cooks food much faster than traditional cooking methods. It is also very energy-efficient, as it uses less energy than a stove or oven to cook food. Additionally, the Instant Pot is very versatile, as it can be used to cook a wide range of dishes, from soups and stews to rice and beans. It is also very easy to use, as it has a simple control panel and a number of preset cooking programs.

Overall, the Instant Pot is a great investment for anyone who loves to cook and wants to save time and energy in the kitchen. It is a versatile, easy-to-use appliance that can make cooking a wide range of dishes quick and convenient.

You can grab an Instant Pot on Amazon.

This is the one I have and I use it several times each week.

Here are 10 different things you can cook in your Instant Pot

Soups and stews: The Instant Pot is great for making soups and stews, as it can cook them quickly and evenly.

Rice: The Instant Pot can cook rice quickly and consistently, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

Beans: The Instant Pot is perfect for cooking dried beans, as it can soften them in a fraction of the time it takes to cook them on the stove.

Pasta: The Instant Pot can cook pasta quickly and evenly, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

Chicken: The Instant Pot is perfect for cooking chicken, as it can tenderize even the toughest cuts of meat.

Beef: The Instant Pot is great for cooking beef, as it can tenderize even the toughest cuts of meat.

Pork: The Instant Pot is perfect for cooking pork, as it can tenderize even the toughest cuts of meat.

Pot roast: The Instant Pot is great for making pot roast, as it can cook the meat quickly and evenly.

Hard-boiled eggs: The Instant Pot is perfect for cooking hard-boiled eggs, as it can cook them evenly and peel easily.

Oatmeal: The Instant Pot is great for making oatmeal, as it can cook it quickly and evenly.

Here is a recipe to get you started with your new Instant Pot

Ingredients:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup long-grain white rice
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup water
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp butter
Instructions:

Place the chicken breasts in the Instant Pot.

Add the rice, chicken broth, water, and salt to the Instant Pot.

Close the Instant Pot and set it to the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting for 12 minutes.

When the cooking time is up, allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally for 10 minutes. Then, carefully release any remaining pressure using the release valve.

Remove the chicken breasts from the Instant Pot and shred them using two forks.

Stir in the butter to the rice mixture in the Instant Pot until it is melted and the rice is fully coated.

Serve the shredded chicken over the rice and enjoy!

Here is one more bonus recipe

Ingredients:

1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 stalks celery, diced
1 carrot, peeled and diced
1 small zucchini, diced
1 small yellow squash, diced
1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
Instructions:

Set the Instant Pot to the “Sauté” setting and add the olive oil. When the oil is hot, add the onion and garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is translucent.

Add the celery, carrot, zucchini, yellow squash, and green beans to the Instant Pot and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the vegetables are slightly softened.

Stir in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Close the Instant Pot and set it to the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting for 5 minutes.

When the cooking time is up, carefully release the pressure using the release valve.

Stir in the kidney beans and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the beans are heated through.

Serve the soup hot and enjoy!

Cooking with Fresh Garlic

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The best way to use garlic while cooking can depend on the dish and personal taste. However, here are a few common methods:

Minced or pressed garlic: This is a great way to add a strong, pungent flavor to dishes such as pasta sauces, marinades, and stir-fries.

Whole cloves: Garlic cloves can be left whole and added to soups, stews, and braises to infuse the dish with garlic flavor.

Roasted garlic: Roasting garlic cloves in the oven can bring out a sweeter, more mild flavor that can be used in dressings, dips, and spreads.

Garlic oil: Garlic oil can be made by infusing oil with garlic and can be used as a flavorful cooking oil or as a finishing oil for dishes such as pasta and vegetables.

Garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a dry seasoning in dishes such as soups, stews, and rubs for meats.

It’s important to note that garlic can be overpowering if not used in moderation, so it’s best to start with a small amount and add more as needed. It is better to add garlic later in the cooking process, because it can become bitter of cooked for too long.

Ever wonder why garlic can be a little spicy on the tongue?

Garlic can sometimes be hot and spicy because of the presence of a compound called allicin, which is released when garlic is cut or crushed. Allicin is responsible for garlic’s pungent flavor and aroma, and it can also give garlic a spicy or hot sensation on the tongue. The amount of allicin in garlic can vary depending on factors such as the type of garlic, the growing conditions, and the way it is stored. Some varieties of garlic, such as hardneck garlic, are known to be more pungent than others, such as softneck garlic. The allicin content can also be affected by how long garlic is stored, as the allicin can break down over time. Freshly harvested garlic will have more allicin than garlic that has been stored for a long time.

Also, allicin can also be affected by the way garlic is prepared. Mincing or pressing garlic will release more allicin and result in a stronger, more pungent flavor and spicy sensation, while slicing or chopping garlic will release less allicin and result in a milder flavor.

Here is a recipe for Garlic Shrimp, to get you stared cooking with fresh garlic.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb. of shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 3 tbsp. of olive oil
  • 4 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1/4 tsp. of red pepper flakes
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp. of lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp. of parsley, chopped

Directions:

  1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
  3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
  4. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the lemon juice and parsley.
  5. Serve the shrimp over rice or pasta.

Enjoy!

Knife Cuts

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There are many different types of knife cuts that are used in cooking, each with its own specific purpose and technique. Here are some common knife cuts and their definitions:

Dice: To dice a food means to cut it into small, uniform cubes. The size of the dice can vary, but common sizes include small (1/8 inch), medium (1/4 inch), and large (1/2 inch).

Chop: To chop a food means to cut it into irregularly shaped pieces. The size of the chop can vary, but it is generally larger than a dice.

Mince: To mince a food means to cut it into very small, finely minced pieces. Minced foods are typically used as a garnish or for adding flavor to dishes.

Slice: To slice a food means to cut it into thin, flat pieces. Sliced foods are often used for sandwiches or for adding texture to dishes.

Julienne: To julienne a food means to cut it into thin, matchstick-sized pieces. Julienne cuts are often used for stir-fries or for adding visual appeal to dishes.

Chiffonade: To chiffonade a food means to cut it into thin, ribbon-like strips. Chiffonade cuts are often used for herbs or leafy greens.

Brunoise: To brunoise a food means to cut it into very small, uniform cubes that are smaller than a dice. Brunoise cuts are often used for adding flavor to sauces or soups.

Batons: To cut a food into batons means to cut it into long, thin sticks. Batons are often used for dipping or for adding visual appeal to dishes.

Chefs Knife

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When it comes to choosing a chef’s knife, there are many factors to consider, including the size of the knife, the material of the blade, and the handle. Ultimately, the best chef’s knife for you will depend on your personal preferences and needs.

One popular option is a German-style chef’s knife, which is known for its robust construction and versatility. These knives typically have a blade that is around 8 inches long and are made from high-carbon stainless steel, which is durable and easy to sharpen. The handle of a German chef’s knife is usually made from a synthetic material that is comfortable to grip and easy to clean.

Another popular option is a Japanese-style chef’s knife, which is known for its sharp blade and precise cutting ability. These knives are typically made from high-carbon stainless steel or a harder type of steel called hagane, which is difficult to sharpen but holds a very sharp edge. Japanese chef’s knives tend to have a more tapered blade and a lighter weight than German-style knives.

Ultimately, the best chef’s knife for you will depend on your personal preferences and needs. It is a good idea to try out a few different types of knives to see which one feels most comfortable in your hand and meets your cooking needs.

For those of you who are curious, I had to Google this when I was researching chefs knives:
Hagane (鋼) is a type of steel that is traditionally used to make Japanese-style knives, such as santoku knives and gyuto knives. It is a high-carbon steel that is known for its durability and ability to hold a very sharp edge. The term hagane literally means “steel” in Japanese, and it is used to distinguish the steel used in knife blades from other types of steel.

Hagane is typically made by forging high-carbon steel at a very high temperature and then quenching it in oil or water to harden the steel. This process gives hagane its characteristic strength and durability. One of the main benefits of using hagane in knife blades is that it is able to retain its sharp edge for a longer period of time than other types of steel. However, hagane is also more difficult to sharpen than other types of steel, so it requires more maintenance to keep it in good condition.

This is the chef knife I use daily in my kitchen it is a Mercer 3520 8″ knife.

I really like this knife because it has a good weight to it and fits nicely in my hand, giving me the control I need in order to make the most precise knife cuts. If you want to learn about the different knife cuts, check out this article.

There are many companies that make high-quality cooking knives, and it can be difficult to determine the “best” makers. Here are three popular brands that are widely available and well-respected:

Wusthof: Wusthof is a German company that has been making knives for over 200 years. They are known for their high-quality, precision-forged knives that are made from high-carbon stainless steel.

Shun: Shun is a Japanese company that makes a wide range of high-quality knives, including kitchen knives. They are known for their beautifully crafted knives that are made from premium materials and feature traditional Japanese blade shapes. This will be my next knife purchase as I’m a fan of Shun knives.

Global: Global is a Japanese company that is known for their innovative, modern designs and high-quality construction. Global knives are made from high-carbon stainless steel and feature a unique handle design that is weighted for balance.

It’s worth noting that there are many other great brands of cooking knives available, and the best brand for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. In general, it’s a good idea to look for knives that are made from high-quality materials, are well-crafted, and have a good reputation for performance and durability.

*Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission. 

High Carbon Steel Pans

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A carbon steel skillet is a type of cooking pan made from carbon steel, a type of steel with a high carbon content. It is similar to a cast iron skillet in many ways, but it is lighter in weight and has a smoother surface. Carbon steel skillets are known for their excellent heat conductivity and ability to retain heat for an extended period of time. They are also very durable and can last for many years with proper care.

There are several reasons why you might want to own a carbon steel skillet. One reason is that it is lightweight and easy to handle, making it a good choice for those who find heavy cast iron pans difficult to maneuver. It is also more responsive to temperature changes than cast iron, so it is easier to control the cooking temperature when using a carbon steel skillet. In addition, carbon steel skillets have a smooth surface, which means they are easier to clean and maintain than cast iron pans. They can also be used on a variety of cooking surfaces, including the stovetop, grill, and oven.

Overall, a carbon steel skillet is a great investment for anyone who loves to cook and wants a lightweight, durable, and versatile pan that will last for years to come.

Here is a link to the high carbon steel pan that I own and use all the time in my kitchen – Link

Here are 10 cool facts about high carbon steel pans:

  • Carbon steel skillets are made from steel with a high carbon content.
  • They are known for their excellent heat conductivity and ability to retain heat for an extended period of time.
  • Carbon steel skillets are very durable and can last for many years with proper care.
  • They are lighter in weight than cast iron skillets and have a smoother surface.
  • Carbon steel skillets are more responsive to temperature changes than cast iron, making it easier to control the cooking temperature.
  • They are easier to clean and maintain than cast iron pans due to their smooth surface.
  • Carbon steel skillets can be used on a variety of cooking surfaces, including the stovetop, grill, and oven.
  • They should be seasoned regularly to maintain their non-stick properties and prevent rust.
  • Carbon steel skillets should not be washed with soap, as this can remove the seasoning and cause the pan to rust.
  • Carbon steel skillets can be used on induction cooktops, but they may not be as efficient as other materials such as stainless steel.

To properly season a carbon steel pan, follow these steps:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Wash the pan with hot, soapy water to remove any dirt or debris. Be sure to dry the pan thoroughly.

Coat the pan with a thin layer of vegetable oil or melted shortening, making sure to cover the entire surface of the pan, including the handle and the outside.

Place the pan upside down in the oven on a sheet of foil or a sheet pan to catch any drips.

Bake the pan for 1 hour.

Turn off the oven and let the pan cool inside the oven.

Once the pan has cooled, wipe away any excess oil with a paper towel.

Your carbon steel pan is now seasoned and ready to use! To maintain the seasoning, be sure to avoid washing the pan with soap and always dry it thoroughly after washing to prevent rust. It’s also a good idea to season the pan every few months or whenever the surface starts to look dry or dull.

Here is a simple recipe for roasted vegetables that can be cooked in a carbon steel pan:

Ingredients:

1 lb mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes)

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp dried basil

salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Cut the vegetables into bite-sized pieces and place them in a mixing bowl.

Add the olive oil, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the bowl and toss the vegetables to coat them evenly.

Place your carbon steel pan in the preheated oven for 5 minutes to heat up.

Remove the pan from the oven and add the coated vegetables, spreading them out in an even layer.

Return the pan to the oven and roast the vegetables for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and lightly caramelized.

Remove the pan from the oven and let the vegetables cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

*Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission. 

Cooking with Cast Iron

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Cooking with cast iron has been a popular method for centuries, and it’s easy to see why. Cast iron skillets and pots are durable, versatile, and can last a lifetime with proper care. In addition, cooking with cast iron has a number of benefits that make it an excellent choice for home cooks.

One of the main benefits of cooking with cast iron is that it provides excellent heat retention and distribution. When you heat a cast iron skillet or pot, it will stay hot for a long time, making it ideal for searing meats, frying foods, or baking bread. In addition, cast iron has a high thermal mass, which means that it can evenly distribute heat across the surface of the pan. This makes it easier to cook food evenly, without hot spots or cold spots.

Another advantage of cooking with cast iron is that it is a natural non-stick surface. When you properly season a cast iron skillet, it will develop a patina that makes it virtually non-stick. This makes it easy to cook foods like eggs, pancakes, and fish without sticking to the pan. In addition, the non-stick surface of a well-seasoned cast iron skillet makes it easy to clean, as food will not stick to the surface.

In addition to its excellent heat retention and natural non-stick properties, cast iron is also very durable. When properly cared for, a cast iron skillet or pot can last a lifetime. It is resistant to chipping, scratching, and warping, and it can withstand high heat and extreme temperature changes. This makes it an excellent choice for outdoor cooking, as well as for use on the stovetop or in the oven.

If you’re new to cooking with cast iron, it’s important to season your skillet or pot before using it. Seasoning is the process of building up a layer of oil on the surface of the pan that helps to protect it from rust and gives it a non-stick surface.

To season a cast iron skillet, follow these steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
  2. Wash the skillet with hot, soapy water and a scrub brush to remove any dirt or debris. Rinse the skillet thoroughly and dry it completely.
  3. Rub a thin layer of vegetable oil or melted shortening all over the surface of the skillet, including the handle and the outside.
  4. Place the skillet upside down on the middle rack of the oven.
  5. Bake the skillet for 1 hour.
  6. Turn off the oven and allow the skillet to cool completely before removing it.
  7. Repeat the seasoning process 2-3 times to build up a good layer of oil on the surface of the pan.

Once your cast iron skillet is seasoned, it’s ready to use.

If you’re new to cooking with cast iron, it’s a good idea to start with a simple recipe and gradually work your way up to more complex dishes. Here are a few recipes to get you started:

  • Skillet Cornbread: This easy recipe only requires a few simple ingredients and is a delicious way to get started with cast iron cooking. Simply mix together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and milk, and pour the mixture into a well-seasoned cast iron skillet. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown.
  • Sausage and Peppers: This classic recipe is a great way to showcase the versatility of cast iron. Simply heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat, add sausage and peppers, and cook until the sausage is browned and the peppers are tender. Serve over pasta or with a crusty loaf of bread.
  • Steak Fajitas: For a delicious and easy dinner, try making steak fajitas in a cast iron skillet. Simply heat the skillet over high heat, add sliced steak and vegetables, and cook until the steak is browned and the vegetables are tender. Serve with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings.

As you become more comfortable with cooking with cast iron, you’ll be able to expand your repertoire and try more complex recipes. With a little practice and some basic care, your cast iron skillet will quickly become an indispensable part of your kitchen. Happy cooking!

If you don’t currently own a quality cast iron skillet, you can take a look at the various skillets available on Amazon by following this link.

There are many different brands of cast iron skillets available on the market, and it can be difficult to determine the “best” brand. Here are three popular brands of cast iron skillets that are widely available and well-respected:

Lodge: Lodge is a well-known and trusted brand of cast iron cookware that has been in business for over 100 years. Lodge skillets are made in the USA and are known for their durability and versatility.

Le Creuset: Le Creuset is a high-end brand of cast iron cookware that is known for its quality and durability. Le Creuset skillets are made in France and are available in a variety of colors and sizes.

Staub: Staub is another high-end brand of cast iron cookware that is known for its quality and durability. Staub skillets are made in France and are available in a variety of colors and sizes.

It’s worth noting that there are many other great brands of cast iron skillets available, and the best brand for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. In general, it’s a good idea to look for skillets that are made from high-quality materials, are well-crafted, and have a good reputation for durability and performance.

Here is a simple recipe for cornbread made in a cast iron skillet:

Ingredients:

1 cup cornmeal

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/4 cup sugar

1 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp salt

1 cup milk

1 egg

2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

In a medium bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and egg.

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.

Place your cast iron skillet in the preheated oven for 5 minutes to heat up.

Remove the skillet from the oven and add the melted butter, swirling it around to coat the bottom of the pan.

Pour the cornbread batter into the skillet and smooth the top with a spatula.

Return the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Remove the skillet from the oven and let the cornbread cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

*Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission. 

How to properly season a cast iron pan

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To properly season a cast iron pan, follow these steps:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Wash the pan with hot, soapy water to remove any dirt or debris. Be sure to dry the pan thoroughly.

Coat the pan with a thin layer of vegetable oil or melted shortening, making sure to cover the entire surface of the pan, including the handle and the outside.

Place the pan upside down in the oven on a sheet of foil or a sheet pan to catch any drips.

Bake the pan for 1 hour.

Turn off the oven and let the pan cool inside the oven.

Once the pan has cooled, wipe away any excess oil with a paper towel.

Your cast iron pan is now seasoned and ready to use! To maintain the seasoning, be sure to avoid washing the pan with soap and always dry it thoroughly after washing to prevent rust. It’s also a good idea to season the pan every few months or whenever the surface starts to look dry or dull.

If you are interested in learning a little about Cooking with Cast Iron, check out this article – Cooking with Cast Iron.

If you don’t currently own a quality cast iron skillet, you can take a look at the various skillets available on Amazon by following this link.

*Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission.