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If you’re an avid home cook, chances are that you already have a cast iron pan in your arsenal of appliances. Although cast iron pans are an incredible addition to any kitchen, they certainly have their drawbacks. For those of you who love your cast iron, but want something just a little more versatile, let me introduce you to enamelled cast iron. Cookware made from enamelled cast iron is known for its durability, versatility, heat retention, and low maintenance properties. What more could you ask for? In this article, I’ll explain its benefits, features, and more. 

What are enamelled Cast Iron Pans?

Enamelled cast iron pans are essentially cast iron pans that have been coated with a layer of enamel. Cast iron is fantastic to have around because it’s a durable material that’s popular for its heat retention and distribution. Cast iron is first made by pouring a mixture of iron, steel, and additional ingredients into a sand mould and left to cool.

To produce an enamelled cast iron pan, a layer of glass is fused to the surface of a finished cast iron pan to provide the smooth enamel coating. While cast iron is traditionally sold solely as skillets, enamelled cast iron can be purchased in an array of shapes and sizes. Dutch ovens, casserole dishes, skillets, and so much more is available.

What can be cooked in enamelled cast iron pans?

When it comes to cooking in an enamelled cast iron, there really are no restrictions. One of the best parts of this cookware option is its versatility. You can braise, sear, poach, bake, simmer, or stir-fry all from the same pan if you like. With its protective enamel coating, you can also cook with highly acidic foods.

What’s the difference between enamelled cast iron and regular cast iron?

At their core, enamelled cast iron and regular cast iron pans are the same. But there are a few key differences between these two types of cookware. First, of course, is the presence of the glass-like enamel coating on enamelled cast iron, compared to the bare surface of cast iron; it’s a much smoother surface compared to the rough surface of cast iron.

The enamel makes enamelled cast iron cookware much easier to maintain, since the coating prevents the cast iron from rusting and eliminates the need for seasoning. It’s also more versatile than regular cast iron. Traditional cast iron can react with acidic foods and affect both the flavour and surface of the pan itself. However, the enamel coating of this type of cookware is non-reactive, leaving you free to cook anything you wish.

The benefits 

Rust Resistant – Traditional cast iron pans can easily be affected by rust, but enamelled cast iron pans aren’t as susceptible. Because of the enamel coating, the cast iron is protected from water damage, so you won’t have to worry about rusting your cookware. 

Doesn’t Require Seasoning – Seasoning is an integral part of taking care of uncoated, traditional cast iron. Luckily, with enamelled cast iron, you won’t have to worry about seasoning. Due to its enamel coating, the underlying cast iron of enamelled cast iron is sealed and protected, eliminating the need for seasoning. 

Visually Appealing – Traditional cast iron pans tend to come in one aesthetic – black and a bit rustic. However, the enamel coating of enamelled cast iron provides a lot of opportunity for design. You can choose enamelled cast iron in lots of colours for something that serves as both functional cookware and a beautiful statement piece. 

Easy to Clean – The slick surface of enamelled cast iron makes cleaning up a breeze. The majority of cooking stains can easily be wiped away without any extra steps or hassle. 

Durable – enamelled cast iron pans are extremely sturdy and durable. They can handle high temperatures and be used on both the stove top and the oven. 

The drawbacks 

Prone to Light Damage – enamelled cast iron pans and dishes are certainly hard to break or destroy entirely. However, they can become slightly scratched, chip and stain over time. While these flaws rarely impact the functionality of the dish, it’s still something to be aware of if you don’t want something that will have cosmetic damage.

Not Nonstick – enamelled cast iron does not have a naturally nonstick surface. When used correctly, it’s fairly easy to use and maintain. Yet if a nonstick surface is at the top of your criteria list, then enamelled cast iron may not be the best fit. 

Heavy – Though enamelled cast iron is sturdy and durable, this also means it’s rather heavy. Large dishes like dutch ovens especially can require a bit of muscle to lift and move around your kitchen. 

Unable to Handle Extreme Temperature Changes – enamelled cast iron cookware can safely handle extreme temperatures, but should not be exposed to extreme temperature changes. When enamelled cast iron undergoes rapid changes in temperature, it can cause thermal shock and possibly crack the dish. For example, you should avoid moving your cookware from the freezer to the broiler. This is a rare occurrence, but something to be cautious of nonetheless. 

Should Be Hand Washed – Most enamelled cast iron appliances can safely be cleaned in a dishwasher, but it certainly shouldn’t be a consistent practice. For the best results, you should avoid using the dishwasher so that the coating is kept in tip-top shape. 

Some brands sell an inferior product – many cheap enamelled cast iron pans are covered with only one layer of enamel. Because they are prone to chipping, there’s a chance that you may chip away the only layer of enamel, exposing the bare cast iron underneath.

How to Take Care of Enamelled Cast Iron

Enamelled cast iron is fairly easy to care for, especially compared to traditional cast iron pans. For everyday cleaning, simply hand wash your dish with warm water and soap. Although enamelled cast iron is technically dishwasher safe, handwashing will help preserve the enamel coating and extend the life expectancy of your dish.

For stuck-on stains, try not to scrub too vigorously – especially with steel wool – because you may accidentally damage the surface of your dish. Instead, since enamelled cast iron is usually resistant to rust, feel free to soak the dish to remove any stubborn stains. In saying that, be conscious of the cast iron rim around the pot, it may be prone to rust patches depending on the brand. You can remove it by turning the pot upside down and submerging the rim in a mixture of warm soapy water and vinegar, allowing it to soak, and use a non-scratching/non-harsh scourer to scrub around the rim.

What brands do I recommend?

I’ve used both Staub and Le Creuset and I love using them. My favourite is the Staub black enamel pots and pans and the ones I use the most because the Staub casserole pan has taller edges compared to the Le Creuset casserole pans. I like them because both Staub and Le Creuset are coated with 3 layers of enamel, giving you more durability. If you’re looking for something more cost-effective, consider a Chasseur pot or pan; it is coated with 2 layers of enamel, giving you the similar durability while still using great quality cookware. Any of these brands will give you a great quality enamelled pots and pans that can last years if taken care of properly.