Cast Iron: The Unwelcome Guest in California
Is Your Cast Iron Skillet a Criminal?
You might be sitting there, minding your own business, searing a juicy steak in your trusty cast iron skillet when suddenly, a SWAT team bursts through your door. "Freeze! You're under arrest for possession of an illegal weapon!"
Okay, that's a bit dramatic. But it's not entirely far-fetched. California has a peculiar relationship with cast iron skillets.
The Cast Iron Conundrum
Now, before you start hoarding your cast iron cookware like a dragon guarding its gold, let's clarify something: cast iron skillets aren't technically illegal in California. But they've certainly been under the spotlight.
It all boils down to a law passed in 2023 called the California Safer Food Packaging and Cookware Act. This law is focused on reducing exposure to harmful chemicals, and it requires cookware manufacturers to disclose certain chemicals used in their products.
While cast iron is generally considered safe and even beneficial for your health (hello, iron-rich food!), the law's broad strokes have caused some confusion. Some people have mistakenly interpreted it as a ban on cast iron altogether.
The Truth About Cast Iron and California
So, can you still use your cast iron skillet in California? Absolutely! Just be aware that if you buy a new one, the manufacturer is required to disclose any potentially harmful chemicals used in its production.
But let's be honest, the real reason you love your cast iron skillet isn't because of its chemical composition. It's because it's practically indestructible, it seasons like a champ, and it gives your food that perfect crust.
So, keep on cooking with cast iron, California! Just make sure to read the labels on any new purchases. And if anyone tells you it's illegal, feel free to correct them with a hearty laugh and a perfectly cooked steak.
How to... Cast Iron FAQs
- How to season a cast iron skillet: Rub a thin layer of cooking oil on the entire surface of the skillet, including the handle. Place it upside down in a preheated oven at 450°F for an hour. Let it cool completely before using.
- How to clean a cast iron skillet: Warm soapy water is usually enough. Avoid using harsh detergents. For stubborn food, sprinkle salt on the hot skillet and scrub with a coarse cloth or chain mail scrubber.
- How to remove rust from cast iron: Sprinkle salt on the rusty area and scrub with a balled-up piece of aluminum foil. Rinse thoroughly and reseason.
- How to store cast iron: To prevent rust, coat the skillet with a thin layer of cooking oil and store it in a cool, dry place.
- How to cook with cast iron: Preheat the skillet over medium-high heat for a few minutes before adding oil or food. Cast iron retains heat well, so you can often cook at a lower temperature than other cookware.
