No other piece of cookware is more convenient than a cast iron skillet. It offers a unique sear, flavor, and cooking quality that can't be achieved with other materials. However, you should know that there are actually two types of cast iron skillets to choose from, which can affect the quality of the pan and ultimately its performance.
Cast iron skillets actually fall into two categories-traditional and enameled. Each has its pros and cons, and when pitted against each other, it can be difficult to choose. That's why we've put together this comprehensive guide to break down the differences and help you decide.
So, when it comes to cast iron skillets vs. enameled cast iron skillets, you'll know which is best for you.
Cast Iron vs. Enameled Cast Iron Skillet - What's the Difference?
Both types of skillets are made of cast iron-the difference lies in their finish. Traditional cast iron is just that: cast iron from the core to the surface. This is what you traditionally imagine cast iron to be: a dark, heavy pan with a layer of seasoning.
Enameled cast iron, on the other hand, has a layer of enamel on the surface to protect and contain the cast iron. This allows for a more colorful look, as well as a smoother finish. As you'll see, depending on the type of cast iron you choose, you'll get a very different experience from each pan.
Benefits of Traditional Cast Iron
- Longer Lifespan - With proper maintenance, bare cast iron can last a lifetime. There's no more durable cookware. Even if it rusts, it can be easily removed and re-seasoned.
- Naturally Non-Stick - With regular seasoning, your traditional cast iron will develop a naturally non-stick surface. This makes it perfect for instantly cooking a variety of delicate foods, such as eggs or vegetables.
- Affordable Choice - In comparison, you can find traditional cast iron at a more affordable price, with pans starting as low as $19. Enameled cast iron, by contrast, is often sold by higher-quality brands.
- Less Noticeable Stains - Due to the black finish, you're less likely to see burn marks on the underside of these pans, nor are you likely to see stubborn stains on the interior, both of which can be difficult to remove.
Disadvantages of Traditional Cast Iron
- Maintenance Required - If you choose a traditional cast iron pan, you'll need to learn how to season it. Bare cast iron must be seasoned, otherwise it will easily rust. Additionally, food will stick when you try to cook in it. You should season your cast iron pan 2-3 times a year and oil it after each use.
- More Effortless Cleaning - Traditional cast iron, of course, requires more cleaning effort, especially since the dimpled surface can easily trap food. The seasoning needs to be preserved, and it can be susceptible to harsh detergents and abrasive cleaning tools. Your cast iron also shouldn't be exposed to moisture for long periods of time. This means, no dishwashers or soaking. Therefore, carefully cleaning by hand and thoroughly drying is your only option.
- No Colors Available - This may sound like a minor issue, but it's still worth mentioning. Some people enjoy the vibrancy and color that enameled cast iron brings. Unfortunately, you won't get that with bare cast iron. These pans are only available in standard black, which can darken with regular use. Some people do prefer this traditional look, though.
- Harder to See While Cooking - Another issue with the lack of color relates to how easy it is to see while cooking. Traditional cast iron skillets have a black interior, while enameled ones can be white or cream. With the latter, it's easier to tell what you're cooking-and how well it's cooking.
Benefits of Enameled Cast Iron
- Less Maintenance - This is one of the biggest benefits when comparing these two types of cookware. You don't need to weather enameled cast iron - the enamel coating protects the core from rusting as long as it remains intact.
- Easy to Clean - Another benefit is the ease of cleaning this enameled surface. Compared to traditional cast iron, it has a smooth glazed surface that's easier to wipe clean. And because of this protective coating, you don't have to worry too much about exposure to moisture. Some are even dishwasher-safe, but we don't recommend it because the abrasiveness of dishwasher detergent can dull the enamel. However, soaking is possible, and you don't have to worry about food easily becoming lodged in the surface.
- There are a variety of glossy finishes to choose from. If aesthetics are important to you and you want your skillet to complement your kitchen decor, you'll have better luck choosing an enameled finish. These often come in vibrant and colorful finishes.
- Easier to See While Cooking - Speaking of color, if you choose an enameled cast iron skillet with a lighter interior, you'll be able to see what you're cooking more clearly. This helps not only with browning on the exterior, but also with moisture retention.
Disadvantages of Enameled Cast Iron
- More Fragile - While cast iron is heavy and sturdy, the enameled exterior is less fragile. The enamel surface can crack or damage if mishandled, and it will eventually dull over time, whether from cleaning or regular use. Once this happens, the pan will rust, and the nonstick properties will fail. There's no way to repair the enamel coating, so all you can do is recycle the skillet. Sadly, this coating ultimately shortens its lifespan.
- Requires Oiling - Without a seasoning layer, enameled cast iron lacks the nonstick surface of traditional cast iron. This means you'll need to apply a generous amount of oil each time you use it. Otherwise, you might end up with a mess.
- Typically More Expensive - These pans are often sold by higher-end brands like Le Creuset and Staub, so naturally, you might pay more for them. Some brands, like Hamilton Beach, are introducing more affordable options to bridge the gap.
- Stains May Be More Noticeable - Unfortunately, the brighter the appearance, the more noticeable the scorch marks, especially on the underside. With regular use, your spotless pan will quickly become worse for wear and tear, requiring some elbow grease to keep it looking like new. However, with some baking soda and persistence, this can be corrected.
Cast Iron vs. Enameled Cast Iron Skillet – Which is Better?
The answer to this question depends entirely on your preference. Each offers an equal number of advantages and disadvantages. Traditional cast iron offers greater durability, affordability, and the convenience of a nonstick coating. Enameled cast iron, on the other hand, is easier to clean, requires no seasoning, and is much easier to maintain.