Food is an essential part of our daily life. Hence, it’s important to make sure that your kitchen is equipped with the best cast iron cookware you can possibly have… or for others, with the best hard anodized cook set!
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So how can you determine which type of cookware suits you most?
Start by going through the pros and cons of each and taking a look at the best options you may select from. After all, this can have a huge impact on your health and enjoyment. It’s definitely a good idea to invest in cookware that’s functional, durable, and the most fitting for your purposes.
The Best Cast Iron Cookware
If you’re looking for a cost-effective solution, you will love cast iron cookware. It’s cheaper and can last for generations.
Over the long run, this type of cookware can actually become non-stick in a natural manner. This way, there’s no need to use as much oil anymore for cooking.
Now, here’s the greatest benefit you can get:
Even heat distribution! It’s actually a major concern for a lot of homeowners and even professional cooks or chefs. With cast iron cookware, you can be assured of even distribution even if the flame is only touching the center part of the pan or pot.
As the downside, be prepared to deal with the heaviness of these tools. You’ll also be limited in your cooking because cast iron cookware reacts to acid, leading to a change in color or taste when using it for specific dishes, sauces, etc.
Another thing you must know is that you’ll have to work out the “seasoning”. This refers to the process of adding oils or putting fats on the surface of the cast equipment then baking for an hour in the oven. It’s a bit of a hassle for some.
These days, though, you’ll be glad to know that there are actually options to get cast iron items that are pre-seasoned or may not need seasoning anymore. There are also some which are non-reactive.
Top 4 Cast Iron Cookware
Here’s a closer look at the best cast iron cookware that you might want to consider purchasing:
1. Lodge L17SK3 17-inch Cast Iron Skillet
One of the best features of this skillet, apart from its large size, is the double hand grip on both sides to help with easier handling and movement. It’s perfect for homemade pizzas that can feed a whole family!
The brand Lodge is well-known and trusted, so you won’t go wrong with this option. They continue to make affordable cast iron items that are highly durable, long-lasting, and totally amazing.
Nevertheless, be aware that it’s hard to carry and it’s not made for cooking different types of food.
Stylish and modern-looking despite being made of cast iron, this cookware by Zelancio is convenient for broiling and baking. It’s also great for tenderizing meat because of the even distribution of heat.
Moreover, there are three layers of porcelain enamel on the material, making it super strong. The lid’s interior also has condensation bumps to make it helpful for self-basting.
The most incredible feature is its versatility. You can go straight from stove to oven to table. It is the perfect solution for tenderize meat. I love to use this dutch oven to prepare stews.
It’s no wonder this cookware receives raving reviews from prior buyers and users! However, as expected from iron cast cookware, it’s quite heavy and it’s also not dishwasher safe.
Now how about a complete set to satisfy your various cooking needs? This one can be used on all kinds of cooking surfaces and even during campfires. It’s also pre-seasoned and capable of even heat distribution and superior heat retention.
Although this set is easy to maintain and very affordable, you must accept the fact that being pre-seasoned doesn’t mean you won’t have to season it ever again. It’s not as pretty as others would want it to be, though. The aesthetic appeal is really subjective. It can be a little rustic for some people.
I've already made a full review about this top-notch cast iron skillet. It's by far one of the best single skillets out there.
The finex skillet has a patented and revolutionary octagonal design that makes easy pouring any gravy or sauce that you are making.
If you take proper care this pan can last a lifetime. It's sturdy and quite heavy.
Also, it is suitable for all types of cooktops --- even induction. You can cook in the stove and then transfer to the oven without the need of moving your food to another pan.
The only downside of this pan is its price. But if you consider that you probably won't have to replace it you will find that is completely worth it.
The Best Hard Anodized Cookware
Some of you probably want to go for hard anodized cookware, so you should also be well aware of the pros and cons of this type.
A lot of people love hard anodized material because of the nonstick, nonreactive surface. You won’t have to worry anymore about discolorations or even slight changes in taste. And since the cookware is not reactive, you also don’t need to be picky with washing or cleaning ingredients.
What’s more, the best hard anodized cookware can be depended on for immense strength. It’s scratch and dent resistant.
So what’s the major setback? Well, there are some who have expressed concern about the health hazard of aluminum which is actually a primary part of the material used in making such cookware. The Aluminum may be locked in by a protective layer, but the said layer will not last forever.
Top 3 Hard Anodized Cookware
Given the above-mentioned advantages and disadvantages, there will be individuals who are inclined to choose this type over the best cast iron cookware. Here are the top hard anodized cookware that you may want to consider:
1. Rachael Ray Hard Anodized II Nonstick Cookware Set
The nonstick feature is a huge plus for this set because it makes both cooking and cleaning fairly easy. The items are dishwasher safe too and there are tempered glass lids for some.
What’s also great about it is the presence of the rubberized handles that are very easy and convenient to grip and handle, even when using the items inside the oven.
However, some users have reported that the exterior coating crumbles away after a year and the bottoms get easily scratched.
When it comes to the best hard anodized cookware, you can count on this set. Not only does it include a lot of pieces that makes all kinds of cooking easier and better, but the material is certainly hard and strong. It’s greatly wear-resistant and the glass is also break-resistant.
The premium nonstick surface had been reinforced with titanium for better results as compared with its competitors. You don’t need to use oil or butter if you want a healthier meal.
In addition, the handles don’t get too hot. They remain cool, allowing for easy handling.
The only disadvantage is the tendency of the lids to slip off at times, depending on how you handle them.
3. [easyazon_link identifier="B00HEH7Q8G" locale="US" tag="cookwaregeek-20"]Cooks Standard Hard Anodize Nonstick Cookware Set[/easyazon_link]
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This set offers heavy-duty cookware that is not that heavy when you carry it. The hard anodized surface is naturally one of the best features when it comes to strength and durability. And since the lids are made of glass, it makes it easy for you to observe and see what’s happening with your dish without needing to remove the lid every now and then.
Furthermore, the set is quite attractive, which is another plus for many. Your kitchen will look prettier with this cookware.
But of course it’s not perfect. It’s important to note that a lot of buyers noticed the Teflon coating added which is not mentioned in any of the product descriptions. Some have reported early peeling of coating.
The Final Verdict: Which Cookware Wins?
It really depends on your needs and preferences if you’ll go for the best cast iron cookware or the best hard anodized cookware.
Nonetheless, based on the reviews of all the items discussed above, the apparent best of the best is Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Non-Stick Hard Anodized. Not only does it include more pieces that will help anyone easily cook up a culinary masterpiece in any kitchen, the premium material is fault-free and highly efficient.
Moreover, because the nonstick feature was reinforced with titanium, it has an edge over other hard anodized cookware.
The items in this set are also not as heavy as cast iron ones. They are easy to handle and to clean and maintain as well.
The last say is still up to you. Be sure to check different reviews of cookware that you are considering to buy before actually purchasing.
Good luck 🙂 !
Owner and Food blogger on The Cookware Geek. She loves cooking, baking, traveling, playing with the cats, and knitting. She believes that eating delicious meals doesn’t require a culinary degree or a Michelin-star chef in your kitchen.