Houseware

Blackstone tips and tricks

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Blackstone Griddle Tips and Tricks

Blackstone griddles are a versatile and popular cooking appliance. They can be used to cook a variety of foods, from pancakes and bacon to burgers and steaks. If you are new to using a Blackstone griddle, here are a few tips and tricks to help you get the most out of it:

1. Season your griddle properly.

Before you use your Blackstone griddle for the first time, it is important to season it properly. This will help to create a non-stick surface and prevent food from sticking. To season your griddle, simply heat it up over medium heat and add a thin layer of oil. Cook the oil for a few minutes, then let the griddle cool completely.

2. Preheat your griddle.

It is important to preheat your Blackstone griddle before cooking. This will help to ensure that your food cooks evenly. To preheat your griddle, simply heat it up over medium heat for a few minutes.

3. Use the right heat setting.

The heat setting you use will depend on the food you are cooking. For example, you will need to use a higher heat setting for searing meats and vegetables, and a lower heat setting for cooking delicate foods, such as fish and eggs.

4. Use a good quality cooking oil.

A good quality cooking oil will help to prevent your food from sticking to the griddle. Some good options include vegetable oil, canola oil, and peanut oil.

5. Clean your griddle after each use.

It is important to clean your Blackstone griddle after each use. This will help to prevent food from sticking and to extend the life of your griddle. To clean your griddle, simply wipe it down with a damp cloth. If there is any food stuck to the griddle, you can use a spatula to scrape it off.

6. Store your griddle properly.

When you are not using your Blackstone griddle, it is important to store it properly. This will help to prevent it from rusting. To store your griddle, simply wipe it down with a damp cloth and store it in a cool, dry place.

With these tips and tricks, you will be able to use your Blackstone griddle to cook delicious food for years to come.

Here are some additional tips and tricks for using a Blackstone griddle:

  • Use a griddle spatula to flip food. A regular spatula can damage the seasoning on your griddle.
  • Don’t overcrowd the griddle. If you put too much food on the griddle at once, it will lower the temperature and food will stick.
  • Use a lid to trap heat and cook food evenly.
  • Be patient. It takes some time to get used to cooking on a Blackstone griddle. Don’t get discouraged if your first few attempts don’t turn out perfect.

With a little practice, you’ll be a Blackstone griddle pro in no time and if you don’t own a Blackstone, get one on Amazon…

Preparing your Blackstone for cooking

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How to Season a Blackstone Griddle

Seasoning a Blackstone griddle is an important step in ensuring that it will cook food evenly and prevent food from sticking. The seasoning process creates a thin layer of polymerized oil on the surface of the griddle, which acts as a non-stick coating.

To season a Blackstone griddle, you will need:

  • A Blackstone griddle
  • A high-heat cooking oil, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil
  • A paper towel
  • A clean rag

Instructions:

  1. Clean the griddle thoroughly with hot water and soap.
  2. Dry the griddle completely with a paper towel.
  3. Pour a thin layer of oil onto the griddle.
  4. Use the paper towel to spread the oil evenly over the surface of the griddle.
  5. Heat the griddle over high heat for 10-15 minutes.
  6. Turn off the heat and let the griddle cool completely.

Your Blackstone griddle is now seasoned and ready to use!

Here are some additional tips for seasoning a Blackstone griddle:

  • Use a high-heat cooking oil. This will help to create a more durable seasoning layer.
  • Apply a thin layer of oil. A thick layer of oil will not polymerize properly and can lead to food sticking.
  • Heat the griddle over high heat. This will help to polymerize the oil and create a more durable seasoning layer.
  • Let the griddle cool completely before using it. This will help to ensure that the seasoning layer is fully cured.

With a little care and attention, your Blackstone griddle will provide you with years of delicious meals.

Do you own a Blackstone

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The Benefits of Owning a Blackstone Griddle

Blackstone griddles are becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. They are versatile, easy to use, and can be used to cook a variety of delicious foods. If you are thinking about buying a Blackstone griddle, here are some of the benefits that you can expect:

Versatility

One of the best things about Blackstone griddles is their versatility. You can use them to cook a variety of foods, including pancakes, bacon, eggs, burgers, steaks, and more. You can also use them to make quesadillas, fajitas, and other Mexican dishes. With a Blackstone griddle, you can cook just about anything you want.

Ease of Use

Blackstone griddles are also very easy to use. They come with a built-in temperature gauge, so you can easily control the heat. You can also use them with or without oil, making them a healthier option than some other cooking methods.

Affordability

Blackstone griddles are very affordable, especially when compared to other outdoor cooking appliances. You can find a Blackstone griddle for under $200, which is a great value for all of the benefits that they offer.

Durability

Blackstone griddles are also very durable. They are made from heavy-duty materials that can withstand the elements. This means that you can use your Blackstone griddle year-round, without having to worry about it rusting or breaking.

Fun

Cooking on a Blackstone griddle is a lot of fun. It is a great way to get the whole family involved in the cooking process. You can also use your Blackstone griddle to entertain guests. It is a great way to show off your cooking skills and to create lasting memories.

If you are looking for a versatile, easy-to-use, and affordable outdoor cooking appliance, then a Blackstone griddle is a great option. They are perfect for cooking a variety of delicious foods, and they are sure to provide you with years of enjoyment.

Here are some additional tips for getting the most out of your Blackstone griddle:

  • Preheat your griddle before cooking. This will help to ensure that your food cooks evenly.
  • Use a high heat for searing meats and vegetables. This will help to lock in the juices and flavors.
  • Lower the heat for cooking delicate foods, such as fish and eggs.
  • Use a good quality cooking oil. This will help to prevent your food from sticking to the griddle.
  • Clean your griddle after each use. This will help to prevent food from sticking and to extend the life of your griddle.

With a little care and attention, your Blackstone griddle will provide you with years of delicious meals.

Look at all of the Blackstone options at Amazon.

Once you have your Blackstone, you can give this breakfast skillet a try…

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
  • 12 eggs
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your Blackstone griddle to medium heat.
  2. Add the ground beef to the griddle and cook until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
  3. Add the onion and green bell pepper to the griddle and cook until softened.
  4. Stir in the diced tomatoes and green chilies.
  5. Make 6 wells in the egg mixture and crack an egg into each well.
  6. Sprinkle with cheese and salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Cook until the eggs are cooked to your desired doneness.
  8. Serve immediately.

This recipe is simple to make and can be customized to your liking. You can add different vegetables, such as mushrooms or zucchini. You can also add different meats, such as sausage or bacon. And you can top the eggs with different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or Swiss.

This breakfast skillet is a great way to start your day. It is hearty and filling, and it is sure to please everyone at the table.

Remove Burn Marks from Stainless Steel

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Burn marks on stainless steel can be difficult to remove, but there are a few methods you can try to help get rid of them. Here are a few tips for removing burn marks from stainless steel:

Use a soft scrub pad or steel wool: Gently scrub the burn marks with a soft scrub pad or steel wool, using circular motions to loosen the burnt-on debris. Be sure to work with the grain of the stainless steel to avoid scratching the surface.

Use a baking soda and water paste: Mix a small amount of baking soda with water to create a paste, and then apply the paste to the burn marks. Let the paste sit for a few minutes, and then gently scrub the area with a soft scrub pad or steel wool. Rinse the paste off with water and dry the stainless steel thoroughly.

Use a stainless steel cleaner: If the burn marks are particularly stubborn, you may want to try using a specialty stainless steel cleaner. These cleaners are designed specifically for use on stainless steel and can help to remove tough stains and marks. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and be sure to wear protective gloves and work in a well-ventilated area.

By following these tips and being patient, you should be able to remove burn marks from your stainless steel and restore its shine and luster. Just remember to use caution when handling any cleaning products and to take your time to avoid scratching or damaging the surface of the stainless steel.

Keep your Kitchen Knives Sharp

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Sharp knives are an essential tool in the kitchen and can make a big difference in the ease and efficiency of your cooking. Here are a few methods for sharpening your kitchen knives:

Use a sharpening stone: A sharpening stone, also known as a whetstone, is a flat stone that is used to sharpen and hone the edge of a blade. To use a sharpening stone, you’ll need to wet the stone with water or oil and then gently glide the blade across the surface in a back-and-forth motion. You’ll need to apply moderate pressure and make sure to sharpen both sides of the blade evenly.

Use a sharpening steel: A sharpening steel, also known as a honing steel, is a rod-shaped tool that is used to realign the edge of a blade. To use a sharpening steel, you’ll need to hold the steel vertically and then draw the blade down the length of the steel in a back-and-forth motion. You’ll need to apply moderate pressure and make sure to sharpen both sides of the blade evenly.

Use a knife sharpener: A knife sharpener is a tool that is specifically designed to sharpen and hone the edge of a blade. Most knife sharpeners have a set of sharpening blades or stones that are used to grind and sharpen the blade. To use a knife sharpener, you’ll need to place the blade in the appropriate slot and then draw it through the sharpener in a back-and-forth motion.

Take it to a professional: If you’re not comfortable sharpening your knives yourself, you can always take them to a professional knife sharpener. Many kitchen supply stores and hardware stores offer knife sharpening services, or you can find a local knife sharpener in your area.

Regardless of which method you choose, it’s important to be patient and take your time when sharpening your knives. With a little bit of practice and care, you’ll be able to keep your knives sharp and in excellent condition.

There are a few precautions to keep in mind when sharpening your kitchen knives:

Use caution: Sharpening a knife can be dangerous if you’re not careful. Always use caution when handling sharp objects and be sure to keep your fingers away from the blade.

Wear protective gear: If you’re using a sharpening stone or a sharpening steel, it’s a good idea to wear gloves to protect your hands from accidental cuts.

Use the correct technique: Different sharpening methods require different techniques, so be sure to familiarize yourself with the correct method before you begin.

Take your time: Don’t try to rush the sharpening process. Take your time and be sure to sharpen both sides of the blade evenly.

Use the correct angle: When sharpening a knife, it’s important to maintain the correct angle between the blade and the sharpening stone or steel. This will help to ensure that you get a clean, even edge on the blade.

By following these precautions, you can safely and effectively sharpen your kitchen knives and keep them in excellent condition.

The correct angle for sharpening a kitchen knife will depend on the type of blade you have and the sharpening method you are using. Here are a few tips for determining the correct angle when sharpening your kitchen knives:

Consider the blade type: Different blade types require different sharpening angles. For example, a Western-style chef’s knife with a pointed tip may require a more acute angle, while a Japanese-style Santoku knife with a straighter edge may require a more obtuse angle.

Use a sharpening guide: If you’re using a sharpening stone or a knife sharpener, you may want to consider using a sharpening guide to help you maintain the correct angle. Sharpening guides are available in a range of sizes and styles, and they can help you to get a consistent angle every time you sharpen your knife.

Experiment and practice: If you’re not using a sharpening guide, you may need to experiment and practice to find the right angle for your knife. Start with a moderate angle and adjust as needed until you get the edge you desire.

By following these tips and being patient, you should be able to determine the correct angle for sharpening your kitchen knives. Just remember to always use caution when handling sharp objects and to take your time to ensure that you get a clean, even edge on the blade.

A wet stone, also known as a sharpening stone or a whetstone, is a flat stone that is used to sharpen and hone the edge of a blade. Wet stones are typically made from abrasive materials, such as silicon carbide or aluminum oxide, and are used with water or oil to lubricate the sharpening process.

I have been using this Sharpening Kit to keep my knives sharp – Knife Sharpening Kit

There are several different types of wet stones, including:

Oil stones: Oil stones are made from a fine-grained abrasive material, such as aluminum oxide or Novaculite, and are used with oil to lubricate the sharpening process. Oil stones are known for their ability to produce a very fine, sharp edge and are often used for precision sharpening.

Water stones: Water stones are made from a softer abrasive material, such as silicon carbide, and are used with water to lubricate the sharpening process. Water stones are known for their ability to sharpen quickly and are often used for everyday sharpening tasks.

Diamond stones: Diamond stones are made from a synthetic diamond abrasive and are known for their ability to sharpen extremely hard materials, such as ceramic or hardened steel. Diamond stones are often more expensive than other types of wet stones and are best used for occasional sharpening tasks.

Combination stones: Combination stones, as the name suggests, are a combination of two or more different types of wet stones in one. They are often dual-sided, with one side made from a finer abrasive material and the other side made from a coarser abrasive material. Combination stones are a versatile choice for sharpening a range of blade types and can be used for both precision and everyday sharpening tasks.

The type of whetstone you use can make a difference in the sharpness and durability of the edge you are able to achieve on your blade. Here are a few factors to consider when choosing a whetstone:

Abrasive material: Different types of abrasive materials are better suited for different tasks. For example, softer abrasive materials, such as silicon carbide, are better for everyday sharpening tasks and can sharpen blades quickly. Harder abrasive materials, such as aluminum oxide or Novaculite, are better for precision sharpening tasks and can produce a very fine, sharp edge.

Grit size: The grit size of a whetstone refers to the size of the abrasive particles on the stone. Finer grit sizes, such as 1000 or higher, are best for precision sharpening tasks and can produce a very fine edge. Coarser grit sizes, such as 500 or lower, are best for everyday sharpening tasks and can sharpen blades more quickly.

Lubrication: Some whetstones, such as oil stones, require the use of oil to lubricate the sharpening process. Others, such as water stones, require the use of water. Be sure to choose a whetstone that is compatible with the type of lubrication you prefer to use.

By considering these factors, you should be able to choose a whetstone that is well-suited to your sharpening needs. Just remember to take your time and be patient when sharpening your blades, as it can take some practice to get the hang of it.

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!

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!

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