5 Things You Should Never Cook in a Skillet

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The humble skillet is probably one of the most misunderstood cooking pans in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking up a quick breakfast, lunch, or dinner, chances are good that you’ll be reaching for a skillet at some point. But as versatile as they may be, there are still some things that you should never cook in a skillet. 

WHAT IS A CAST IRON SKILLET?

A cast iron skillet is a cooking pan that is made of cast iron. It is often used for frying or baking and has a long handle to stay cool while in use. Cast iron skillets are seasoned with oil, which helps to create a non-stick surface, and can be used on any type of stovetop, including induction.

HOW DO YOU SEASON A SKILLET?

There are a few ways to season your skillet, but the most common is to use oil. Although you can use any cooking oil, most people prefer olive or vegetable oil. Make sure to heat the skillet on medium heat while adding just enough oil to coat the base. Allow the oil to heat up for a minute or two, then use a paper towel to spread it around the skillet. Let the skillet heat for around fifteen minutes and let the temperature come down once you’ve turned the stove off.

Once your skillet is seasoned, it will have a dark black patina on the surface. This patina helps prevent food from sticking to your skillet and makes cleanup a breeze. To keep your skillet seasoned, cook with it often and avoid using harsh detergents or scouring pads. If your skillet starts to look dull, repeat the seasoning process.

WHAT SHOULD YOU AVOID COOKING IN A SEASONED CAST IRON SKILLET?

There are a few things you should avoid cooking in a seasoned cast iron skillet, as they can cause damage to the seasoning. Avoid making these foods in a skillet:

  • Delicate fish filets

Fish filets are delicate and can easily be overcooked or broken up if you’re not careful. A skillet is just too heavy and aggressive for cooking something like this. Instead, stick to a lighter pan, like a saucepan or sauté pan.

  • Eggs in the shell

Eggs are another delicate ingredient; they can be tough to cook evenly in a skillet. You could end up with overcooked whites and runny yolks if you’re not careful. It’s better to cook eggs in the shell in a saucepan or an oven.

  • Pancakes

Pancakes are best cooked on a griddle, not in a skillet. A skillet will make them cook unevenly, likely sticking to the pan. Not only will it break the pancakes when turning them over but they won’t be presentable either.

  • Bacon

Since skillets are great for cooking oily foods, many people tend to cook bacon in them. The uneven base and high cooking temperature, however, might cause your bacon to be soft and sticky since it won’t get proper heat. You’re better off cooking it in a baking pan where it will turn crisp.

  • Steak

A skillet is not the best way to cook a steak. The high heat you need to cook a steak properly will cause the fat and juices to splatter over your stovetop. It’s better to cook steaks on a grill or in the oven.

It is suggested you avoid cooking these in a seasoned cast iron skillet to keep your seasoning intact and your food tasting its best. It also helps to prevent damaging your skillet.

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