Cast iron cookware is a popular choice for many home chefs. It heats evenly and retains heat well, making it perfect for slow-cooking and braising. But can you use cast iron on a glass stove top? The answer is yes – but there are a few things you need to know before you get started. Let us show you the best way to use a cast iron skillet on a glass top stove, as well as some of the pros and cons of using this type of cookware.
Why Use Cast Iron and Can You Use Cast Iron On a Glass Stove Top?
As we mentioned before, the answer to can you use cast iron on a glass top stove, is yes! But there are a few things to keep in mind. But before we start, we wanted to share some cast iron benefits and why it’s one of our favorite types of cookware.
Cast Iron Benefits for Cooking
Why is cast iron good for cooking? There are a few important reasons! First, it heats evenly and retains heat well. This makes it perfect for slow-cooking and braising. Additionally, cast iron cookware is very durable and will last for many years with proper care.
Another great benefit of cooking with cast iron is that it can be used on a variety of cooking surfaces, including gas and electric stovetops, as well as in the oven. And, because it is so versatile, it is a great choice for cooking both small and large meals.
Cast Iron Skillet Cleaning and Care
Now that we’ve discussed the benefits of cooking with cast iron, let’s talk about how to clean cast iron and take care of it. Seasoning your cast iron skillet will help to create a non-stick surface and prevent rust. To season your skillet, simply rub it with vegetable oil or shortening and bake it in a preheated oven for one hour.
After seasoning your cast iron skillet, it is important to clean it properly. To do this, simply wash the skillet with hot water and mild soap. Avoid using harsh detergents or scouring pads, as these can damage the seasoning on your skillet. If your skillet does become rusty, don’t worry – simply season it again and it will be as good as new!
Cast iron pans can keep oil and cooked on food than any other sort of cookware, some would say glass is not the best cooktop for cast iron for this reason. When you heat the cast iron pan, the oil and deposits of food can burn, leaving stains and smudges on the glass top surface. Washing your cast iron skillet with mild soap and hot water can help prevent this.
Tips for Cooking With Cast Iron On a Glass Stove Top
Now that we’ve discussed how to care for your cast iron skillet, let’s answer the questions, “Can you use cast iron on a glass stove top?” and, “How to protect glass top stove from cast iron?”
First, use a diffuser when cooking with cast iron on a glass stove top. A diffuser is a flat disk that sits between the pan and the burner and helps to distribute the heat evenly. This will help to prevent hot spots and uneven cooking as well as protect the glass from cast iron scratches.
Second, make sure to use a lower heat setting when cooking with cast iron on a glass stove top. Cast iron pans conduct heat very well, so you won’t need to use as high of a heat setting as you would with other types of cookware.
Third, always lift your cast iron skillet when moving it on a glass stove top. Never slide it, as this can damage the cooktop.
Fourth, make sure to clean your cast iron skillet after each use. As we mentioned before, washing it with hot water and a mild soap is all you need to do. However, if you notice any build-up of food or grease, you may need to scrub it with a stiff brush.
Fifth, be very gentle when cooking with cast iron on a glass stove top. If you set your pan down too hard, it can crack the glass. So, always set it down gently and be careful not to bang it around.
We hope we’ve answered if you can you use cast iron on a glass stove top, and by following these tips we hope you feel safe knowing that your cooktop is going to be ok. So go ahead and give it a try! You may be surprised at how well it works. And don’t forget, Callahan’s is here to help with any stove and cooktop repair you may need!
