Cast Iron vs. aluminum: What's better for cooking? The distinction is critical in what foods you cook and what's better for your health. They also have a different price tag worth considering when you purchase one over the other.
One of the best benefits of cast iron and aluminum is that they have a unique history. They are some of the most used cookware in past and present cultures. They are not only known for durability, but they can make delicious foods. The key is learning to make certain foods with either of them. They each have different methods and tricks that help you make the best foods out of them.
This guide covers everything you need to know about the difference between cast iron and aluminum. We look at what makes them unique, what foods you should consider cooking with them, and how to clean either adequately.
What Is Cast Iron?
©AS Foodstudio/Shutterstock.com
Cast iron cookware can last generations. You may even find cast iron pots and pans in your grandparent's kitchen because they were the most common kind of cookware back in the 1900s. A cast iron's durability comes from iron pig and melting iron ore. Iron is one of the most vital elements, which is why it's part of the steel-making process.
Another part of the cast iron's durability is the fat that builds up on the nonstick surface. You'll discover that cast iron cookware with a fat buildup prevents the iron from rusting. It's what makes it last longer than any cookware if adequately taken care of.
Another added benefit of cast iron is that whenever you cook, you get a bit of iron you need for your body. It's not the daily amount your body needs. But it does help.
While durability is the name of the game when it comes to cast iron cookware, it doesn't mean it's the best in other areas. For example, cast iron cookware is often a lot heavier, which can be a pain if you're elderly or drop it on the kitchen floor and damage it. It's also not a great conductor of heat. You need to constantly move the pan or the food around the pan to give it an even cook.
The best way to get the most out of your cast iron cookware is to follow the best guidelines.
- Preheat your cast iron skillet to prepare it for cooking.
- Since it's not non-stick, you should rub oil around it.
- To clean it, avoid the dishwasher and use minimal soap.
What Is Aluminum?
While cast iron is not great at conducting heat, aluminum is excellent at conducting heat. It's one of the best cookware for cooking your food evenly. You'll find that it's also lightweight compared to cast iron cookware.
Another benefit of aluminum cookware is that they are inexpensive compared to cast iron. While cast iron can range from $50 or more for a single pan or pot, you can find aluminum pots and pans between $10 and $20. If you want a high-quality aluminum cookware set, you can pay as much as $200.
Compared to cast iron cookware that takes a while to heat up, you'll discover that aluminum cookware heats up rather quickly. However, like cast iron, it doesn't have nonstick properties. This is why it's recommended that you prepare it with oil before cooking.
If you're thinking of getting the aluminum cookware, consider these distinct advantages it has to it:
- Balanced cooking with even heat distribution.
- It's more affordable than cast iron.
- Lightweight and easy to clean.
However, there are also disadvantages you should consider before purchasing aluminum cookware.
- Quality is not as durable as cast iron.
- Reactive to acidic food, with only certain food you can cook with.
- Are easily dentable if you drop them or aren't careful with them.
Cast Iron vs. Aluminium: What's Better for Cooking?
If you're wondering what to cook with cast iron or aluminum cookware, look no further than these foods.
These are the best foods to cook with the cast iron.
- Thick Cut Steak
- Bacon
- Cornbread
For example, here are the best foods to cook in aluminum:
- Carna Asada
- Pesto shrimp skewers
- Grilled artichokes
Cast Iron vs. Aluminium: What's Better for the Kitchen?
Cast iron and aluminum have distinct advantages that make choosing what's better for your kitchen is challenging. The key is knowing what food you enjoy making the most, especially if it's acidic or not. If you enjoy the durability of cookware and eating lots of acidic food, you should lean toward cast iron. However, if you like light cookware and avoid acidic food, consider aluminum.
Overall, these are excellent choices for cooking lots of food. Choosing one over the other is a matter of preference.
The image featured at the top of this post is ©AS Foodstudio/Shutterstock.com.