Cast iron performs just as well as or better than Teflon options, without all the health questions. Foods cooked in cast iron absorb valuable iron that's good for your health.
- Cast iron pans (at about $25) are a fraction of the cost of many nonstick pans (which can cost you $50 and up), and they last forever.
- When seasoned properly, cast iron pans are as nonstick as the usual options, but without the chemical polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), a likely carcinogen according to the EPA.
- To initially season your cast iron pan: 1) heat it on the stove while you brush the pan's surface evenly with cooking oil; 2) bake in a 350 degree oven for an hour, then 3) let it cool in the oven. To keep your cast iron nonsticky, only use salt (or very mild soap, if you must) for washing, dry, then drizzle on some oil and wipe with a cloth.
