At first, the humans discovered fire… followed by the iron plate to cook on it.
Every cast iron skillet has a story to tell. It has its roots and history for sure; its evolution is noteworthy, iconic and caters to a big part of the versatile culinary history. Cast iron skillets had their humble starting point, especially around bonfires. It gradually made its way to every modern kitchen with all its bohemian roots attached. Thus the cast iron pan is considered to be meeting points of innovation, tradition and cultural significance.
Chronologically speaking, cast iron frypans can be rooted back to several millennia. Early civilizations like the Indus Valley, Chinese, Greeks and Romans discovered the utility of cast iron vessels in their own respective Iron Age timeframe. These vessels did not resemble the ‘modern’ skillets we see now. However, they have always retained their practicality.
Skillets got their modern and practical shape (with handles) around the late 17th century. From then onwards the ruggedness around iron skillets started getting toned down and now they have found a place in your aesthetic kitchen space.
Historically, cast iron utensils reached a pivotal point around the Industrial Revolution. Then onwards their popularity surged and people started mass manufacturing them due to high demand. Cast iron skillets became highly accessible and a common kitchen staple in households. Cast iron skillet’s popularity upsurge due to the multi-faceted utility it comes with
The Industrial Revolution marked a significant turning point in the production and popularity of cast iron skillets. Advances in manufacturing techniques allowed for mass production, making cast iron frypans more accessible to households across Europe and America. In America, cast iron skillets played vital role in American culinary history, particularly during westward expansion and the frontier era.
Cast iron pans were majorly used on woodburning stoves. During this time, cast iron skillets became indispensable tools in kitchens, offering durability, even heat distribution, and versatility for cooking a wide range of dishes.
Why are cast iron skillets so special?
Definitely because of their development of the skillet seasoning. Seasoning is all about coating the top inner layer of the skillet with a thin-spread layer of oil and heating it. This creates a naturally non-stick surface which lasts throughout the day’s cooking session. Seasoning enhances the cooking techniques, quality and other properties. Prolonged seasoning enhances the lifespan of a cast iron skillet, it does not rust or corrode easily.
Talking of a modern day alternative of the repeated and manual seasoning in traditional cast iron pan, enamelled cast iron skillets require zero maintenance top portal. These are the hybrid technologies which feature lightweight vessels, less maintenance and is easy to handle. The iron cast is rust proof; its stainless steel handles stay cool despite heat exposure. Enamelled cast iron skillets are non-reactive to acidic food and requires no repeated manual seasoning.
Renaissance of Cast Iron
Just like every other pathbreaking or elemental discovery of umpteen utility, there comes a plateau followed by a temporary phase of ignorance. Cast iron pan fell under the shadows with the rise of more lightweight and easily manufactured cookware materials such as aluminium and stainless steel.
In recent years cast iron frypans had its restoration, rather a renaissance with its enamelled versions. There is a common interest in cast iron skillets among home cooks and professional chefs alike.
