A carbon steel skillet is a type of cooking pan made from carbon steel, a type of steel with a high carbon content. It is similar to a cast iron skillet in many ways, but it is lighter in weight and has a smoother surface. Carbon steel skillets are known for their excellent heat conductivity and ability to retain heat for an extended period of time. They are also very durable and can last for many years with proper care.
There are several reasons why you might want to own a carbon steel skillet. One reason is that it is lightweight and easy to handle, making it a good choice for those who find heavy cast iron pans difficult to maneuver. It is also more responsive to temperature changes than cast iron, so it is easier to control the cooking temperature when using a carbon steel skillet. In addition, carbon steel skillets have a smooth surface, which means they are easier to clean and maintain than cast iron pans. They can also be used on a variety of cooking surfaces, including the stovetop, grill, and oven.
Overall, a carbon steel skillet is a great investment for anyone who loves to cook and wants a lightweight, durable, and versatile pan that will last for years to come.
Here is a link to the high carbon steel pan that I own and use all the time in my kitchen – Link
Here are 10 cool facts about high carbon steel pans:
- Carbon steel skillets are made from steel with a high carbon content.
- They are known for their excellent heat conductivity and ability to retain heat for an extended period of time.
- Carbon steel skillets are very durable and can last for many years with proper care.
- They are lighter in weight than cast iron skillets and have a smoother surface.
- Carbon steel skillets are more responsive to temperature changes than cast iron, making it easier to control the cooking temperature.
- They are easier to clean and maintain than cast iron pans due to their smooth surface.
- Carbon steel skillets can be used on a variety of cooking surfaces, including the stovetop, grill, and oven.
- They should be seasoned regularly to maintain their non-stick properties and prevent rust.
- Carbon steel skillets should not be washed with soap, as this can remove the seasoning and cause the pan to rust.
- Carbon steel skillets can be used on induction cooktops, but they may not be as efficient as other materials such as stainless steel.
To properly season a carbon steel pan, follow these steps:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Wash the pan with hot, soapy water to remove any dirt or debris. Be sure to dry the pan thoroughly.
Coat the pan with a thin layer of vegetable oil or melted shortening, making sure to cover the entire surface of the pan, including the handle and the outside.
Place the pan upside down in the oven on a sheet of foil or a sheet pan to catch any drips.
Bake the pan for 1 hour.
Turn off the oven and let the pan cool inside the oven.
Once the pan has cooled, wipe away any excess oil with a paper towel.
Your carbon steel pan is now seasoned and ready to use! To maintain the seasoning, be sure to avoid washing the pan with soap and always dry it thoroughly after washing to prevent rust. It’s also a good idea to season the pan every few months or whenever the surface starts to look dry or dull.
Here is a simple recipe for roasted vegetables that can be cooked in a carbon steel pan:
Ingredients:
1 lb mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Cut the vegetables into bite-sized pieces and place them in a mixing bowl.
Add the olive oil, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the bowl and toss the vegetables to coat them evenly.
Place your carbon steel pan in the preheated oven for 5 minutes to heat up.
Remove the pan from the oven and add the coated vegetables, spreading them out in an even layer.
Return the pan to the oven and roast the vegetables for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and lightly caramelized.
Remove the pan from the oven and let the vegetables cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
*Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission.