How to care for your iron frying pan (complete edition) [series]

1. Features of iron frying pans

1-1 Advantages

1-1-1 The more you use it, the more the oil will absorb

The biggest feature of an iron frying pan is how well it absorbs oil.
The more you use an iron frying pan, the more oil it will absorb, making it less likely for food to stick to it.

At first, you may find it difficult to control the amount of oil and the heat, and it may seem difficult to use.
However, once you get the hang of how to use it, the oil will soak into the frying pan and you will gradually find it easier to use.

The unique charm of an iron frying pan is that it grows with the user.

1-1-2 Durable and long-lasting

Frying pans with surface treatments such as Teflon are convenient because food does not stick to them and they are easy to clean, but they can deteriorate due to scratches caused by high-temperature cooking or metal spatulas.
Even if you use them carefully, they are consumable items that will reach the end of their life in a few years, so they need to be replaced regularly.

On the other hand, iron frying pans are resistant to high temperatures and scratches, and if properly cared for, they can be used for a long time, so much so that they are said to last a lifetime.
This is recommended for people who want to use one frying pan for a long time without having to replace it frequently.

1-1-3 Good balance of thermal conductivity and heat retention

When comparing materials commonly used for frying pans of the same thickness, the ease with which heat is transferred is expressed as "thermal conductivity," while the overall heat retention is expressed as "specific heat x density."

Source: Kuniko Sugiyama "Heat cooking and thermal properties"

When compared in this way, iron does not appear to be exceptionally good in terms of thermal conductivity or heat retention, but in fact, this "good balance" is a major advantage.

For example, aluminum has high thermal conductivity but low heat retention, while stainless steel has high heat retention but low thermal conductivity.
They are characterized by an unbalanced nature, with clear areas of strength and weakness.

On the other hand, the appeal of iron frying pans is their "high average score."

Its heat retention is second only to stainless steel, and once heated it will retain its heat.
Therefore, there is little change in temperature when ingredients are added, and they cook quickly.
The vegetables stay crisp without losing excess moisture, and the meat gets a crisp exterior while the juices are sealed in for a juicy interior.

Although its thermal conductivity is inferior to that of aluminum and copper, it is not as extremely low as that of stainless steel, so although it will not heat up immediately after lighting it, it has an average feel in terms of pre-heating time.

By the way, astute observers may have already noticed, when it comes to average thermal conductivity and heat retention, copper is actually superior to iron.
It has the same heat retention as iron, but also has exceptionally high thermal conductivity.
However, copper is weak against impacts and is much more expensive than other materials, so it is not very commonly used for home frying pans.

1-1-4 Can be used on induction cooktops! Increase heat gradually

Iron frying pans can be used not only on direct heat but also on induction cooktops.
Since it can be used with any heat source, you can continue to use it even if you move to a new kitchen.

When using an induction cooktop, be careful with the heat, as sudden changes in temperature can cause the pan to deform and become unusable. Always increase the temperature gradually.

1-2 Disadvantages

1-2-1 If not properly maintained, it will rust easily

Iron is a material that rusts easily, so if you don't take proper care of your iron frying pan, it may rust.
After use, be careful not to leave any dirt or moisture on the food.

However, even if your iron frying pan does rust, you don't need to worry too much as it can be restored.

1-2-2 Heavy

Iron is a relatively heavy metal, so people who want a lightweight frying pan should be especially careful.

The "Kamaasa Iron Hammered Frying Pan" sold by Kamaasa Shoten weighs approximately 720g for the 20cm size and approximately 1300g for the 26cm size (1kg is approximately the equivalent of 1L of milk in a carton).
When actually cooking, the weight of the ingredients will also be added.

When it comes to iron frying pans, it's easier to use if you plan on cooking with the food sitting on the pan rather than stirring it.
However, you will need to lift it when serving food or cleaning it after use, so don't forget to check the weight, especially if you are considering a larger frying pan.

You can avoid making a mistake by checking the weight in the store before purchasing, or by comparing it to the weight of the frying pan you currently use.

1-3 Is it true that iron frying pans are prone to attracting cockroaches?

Some people are interested in iron frying pans but can't decide whether to buy one, saying, "I'm worried that cockroaches will come in if I leave an iron frying pan in my kitchen."

Is it true that iron frying pans are prone to attract cockroaches?

1-3-1 The cause is not always just the oil in the iron frying pan

Cockroaches have a penchant for oil, so a frying pan that has oil on its surface could indeed be a source of attraction for cockroaches.
However, there are many other factors that can lead to cockroach infestations, such as grease stains on the stove, cooking scraps, and food waste.
There is no need to shy away from cast iron frying pans by making the easy association that "cast iron frying pans = cockroaches."

1-3-2 Basic measures such as cleaning around the kitchen are important

Regardless of whether you have an iron frying pan or not, it is important to start by taking basic measures to keep cockroaches away, such as "cleaning the kitchen area regularly" and "avoiding garbage accumulation."
Other effective measures include using insecticides and cockroach repellents.

1-4 It's too early to think, "This seems too difficult for me, so I should give up."

There are several steps and points to remember in order to master using an iron frying pan, such as preparation before first use, precautions to take when cooking, and how to care for it.

Iron frying pans are often thought of as difficult tools for advanced chefs, but they are actually surprisingly simple to use and maintain, so once you get used to it, they will quickly become a valuable companion in your daily life.

In the next chapter, we will explain in detail how to use and care for your cast iron frying pan.
Before you assume that it's "kind of troublesome" or "I don't think I could use it properly," be sure to check it out.

2 Coming Soon