While cast-iron skillets and Dutch ovens are versatile and durable, there are certain foods and cooking practices you should avoid to maintain their quality and prevent damage. Here are some things you should not put in a cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven:
Acidic foods: Avoid prolonged cooking or storing of highly acidic foods, such as tomatoes, citrus fruits, vinegar-based dishes, or wine sauces. Acidic ingredients can react with the iron, causing a metallic taste and potentially damaging the seasoning.
Dairy: Cooking dairy-based foods like cheese sauces or cream-based dishes for extended periods can lead to curdling and sticking, making cleanup difficult.
Delicate fish: Delicate fish like sole or flounder might not fare well in a cast-iron skillet, as they can easily stick and fall apart. Stick to non-stick pans or other appropriate cookware for these fish varieties.
Sticky desserts: Avoid cooking sticky desserts like caramel or taffy directly in a cast-iron skillet, as they can be challenging to clean off properly and may cause damage to the seasoning.
Boiling water for extended periods: Boiling water for long periods may cause the seasoning to break down and lead to rusting. Cast iron is excellent for searing, frying, and baking, but it's not the best choice for boiling water regularly.
Delicate sauces: Be cautious with delicate sauces like hollandaise, which require precise temperature control and may be difficult to manage in a cast-iron skillet due to its excellent heat retention.
Deep-frying with excessive oil: While cast iron is great for shallow frying, avoid deep-frying with excessive amounts of oil, as this can lead to oil splatters and potential safety hazards.
Large quantities of highly salty or sugary foods: Cooking very salty or sugary dishes in cast iron can break down the seasoning and cause the pan to lose its non-stick properties.
Remember that with proper care and seasoning, cast-iron cookware can last a lifetime and provide excellent cooking results. Regularly seasoning your skillet or Dutch oven and following the manufacturer's care instructions will help maintain its quality and make it a reliable kitchen tool.