- In a world increasingly dominated by technology and disposable goods, the cast iron skillet is a nostalgic reminder of slower times and sustainable living. It's not just cookware; it's a connection to our culinary past, a symbol of durability and quality, and a testament to the enduring power of a well-made product.
On the other hand, if you need a large enameled pot to cater to larger groups or to cook more food, there are many options to choose from. The large enamel pot is perfect for making stews, casseroles, and one-pot meals for the whole family. They're also great for boiling pasta, making stock, or preparing large batches of soup.
Cast iron is another material to consider because it retains heat extremely well, although it's not the best heat conductor. That means, cast iron takes a while to heat up. Cast iron is best for searing, sauteing, and baking.
Non-Reactive Surface: Enamel cookware provides a non-reactive cooking surface, making it suitable for acidic ingredients and long cooking times. This ensures that the flavors of the ingredients are preserved without any metallic taste.
For small chips, epoxy repair kits designed for enamel and porcelain surfaces can be used. Clean the chipped area thoroughly, apply the epoxy according to the manufacturer's instructions, and carefully smooth the surface. Once the epoxy has dried, the repaired area should be sanded and polished to blend with the surrounding enamel.


There are several options to consider when choosing enameled cast iron cookware. For example, ceramic-coated cast iron pans have a smooth, non-porous surface that is easy to clean and resistant to scratches. Enamel-coated cast iron pans are ideal for cooking sauces, soups, and stews because the enamel coating prevents acidic ingredients from reacting with the metal.
Can You Use Metal Utensils on Stainless Steel Pans?
Cast Iron Soup Pot
Cast iron cookware has been a staple in the kitchen for centuries, and for good reason. Its durability, versatility, and ability to retain and evenly distribute heat make Cast iron cookware a popular choice for home cooks and professional chefs alike. From enameled pots and Dutch ovens to griddles, skillets, and griddles, there are various types of cast iron cookware to suit different cooking needs.
You can put a copper pan in the oven if you’re making a dessert like a tarte Tatin, but remember that copper can’t take the high heat of cast iron or stainless, so most manufacturers don’t recommend temperatures above 450 °F.
In our tests, we put copper skillets through the same heating evenness and sauté performance tests as stainless steel pans, which are also uncoated. We also cook foods that require controlled heat, including risotto, a gooey banana tarte Tatin, and melted white chocolate. All the copper pans perform well, Fisher says.
Here are two recommended copper pans from CR’s tests.
Dutch Oven Material