This $25 Skillet Completely Changed My Mind About Cast-Iron Cooking – It Outperforms Pans Costing Three Times More
I cannot believe I was ever scared of cast-iron cooking
Despite being a cookware editor, I will admit that I have always been scared of cooking with unenameled cast iron. With no protective coating to fend off sticking and rust, the maintenance alone was enough to put me off investing in this hardy chef essential.
It was inevitable, however, that my hunt for the best non-toxic cookware would lead me to cast-iron skillets. And I am oh-so glad that it did.
Having used the Victoria 10-inch Cast Iron Skillet, available at Amazon, a few times to prepare my full review, I have been blown away by just how simple it is to use and the stunning results it produces with minimal fuss. Better still? It is our budget contender, at under $25. I think it has potential to be one of the best skillets – here's why.
Crafted in Colombia, the textured, pre-seasoned surface is ready for cooking right out of the box. With a thicker wall edge and deep vessel for simmering, the Victoria cast iron is safe for use on all cooktops, including induction, and is safe for use on campfires and grills for true versatility.
The best cast-iron cookware has a reputation for being on the more expensive side. The heavy materials used and quality machining to ensure a smooth, durable cooking surface natural puts these pans at higher price points than traditional non-stick pans. Usually, the price is justified by the fact that this non-toxic alternative will last for decades, being passed through generations if you clean cast iron correctly.
Despite being a health-conscious cook, I never saw the appeal of pans that you have to put so much effort into maintaining, only for some foods to stick and burn anyway. I would have continued to think that way if I didn't do this job.
However, after using the Victoria Cast Iron Skillet just once, I was blown away. I'll admit the lower price point gave me lower expectations; however, when frying up some burgers, the pan delivered the most beautiful sear, and all with zero sticking.
I added more oil than I usually would, following general advice for using new cast iron to help develop the fresh seasoning, but the meat came away from the surface without tearing or leaving chunks behind. I was seriously impressed.
What I really loved, however, was the fact that I could achieve this in such low temperatures. My electric stovetop has nine heat settings, and my old non-stick pans usually required setting six and above. The Victoria Skillet, on the other hand, preheated at four and cooked my burger on level two. It's a small difference, but it will save me energy and money in the long run.
I am, of course, going to put it through more tests to explore the limits and potential of the pan before I write my full review, but so far it's incredibly promising. I see nothing not to like, especially at such an amazing price.
What Else to Shop
One of the biggest barriers to cooking with cast iron is the upkeep. To make the process feel less intimidating, I’ve curated six essential tools that simplify cleaning and caring for your cookware, helping you keep your cookware in top condition with far less effort.
All prices were correct at the time of publication.
Designed for cleaning, restoring, and removing rust from cast iron, this plant-based soap helps to clean the surface without damaging the metal before re-seasoning.
Grapeseed oil is often touted as the best seasoning oil for cast iron, recommended by chefs for its high smoke point, neutral flavor, and affordability.
Cast iron scrubbers are perfect for removing food debris from cast iron without damaging the surface, ensuring a perfect clean every time.
These erasers restore damaged cast iron, removing rust and tarnish from family heirlooms and grill pans accidentally left outside. The versatile cleaners can also be used on knives, tools and grill grates.
Cast-iron pan handles get hot, both on the stove and in the oven. These handy pot holders by Le Creuset protect your skin without being bulky, allowing for easier manoeuvrability.
Wooden kitchen utensils are the gold standard for any cookware, avoiding damaging layers of seasoning, fickle non-stick, and delicate ceramic.
Used cast iron before and always found things sticking? There might be a common heat ring mistake to blame. Luckily, it is super simple to fix.
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