While summer is still clinging on in many states, the change of season is in the air, with cooler, wetter weather on the horizon.
For those of us not quite ready to give up summer cooking, packing away the grill can feel like a reluctant end to the season. Instead, I’m bringing those smoky, seared flavors indoors with some of the best cast-iron cookware.
The IKEA VARDAGEN Grill Pan is a standout. At less than $40, its substantial cast-iron construction and deep grill lines deliver the kind of satisfying sear you’d expect from an outdoor grill, all from the comfort of your kitchen.
This pan is made from cast iron, which spreads heat evenly, keeps the pan warm for a long time, and evenly browns food. Better yet, it works well on all types of cooktops, including induction.
While it can be difficult to match the authentic, smoky flavor of cooking over hot coals indoors, a quality cast-iron skillet can come close, imparting deep, delicious-looking sear marks on everything from meat to vegetables.
It's some of the best non-toxic cookware for a reason, designed for maximum food contact and easy flipping, helping to develop a uniform, golden crust no matter what you are cooking.
The IKEA VARDAGEN Grill Pan is one of the best for price alone. At under $40, it is one of the most affordable options on the market without compromising on quality. While I have not tested the grill pan itself yet, I have had my hands on the Cast Iron Dutch Oven, which, when compared against Le Creuset, delivered many of the same outstanding results.
IKEA shoppers have fallen in love with this pan, too. One anonymous shopper, for instance, gave it five stars, sharing, 'Love this pan! Easy to prepare for use (it's already seasoned). Bought it for [my husband] to make bacon in the oven. Highly recommend it to others.'
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The only negative review comes from a shopper who wasn't ready for the maintenance that comes with preparing, cleaning, and restoring cast iron. As with cleaning a grill, your cast iron skillet will need regular seasoning using a neutral-flavored oil such as grape seed oil, from Amazon, to prevent rust and maintain a low-stick patina.
If you’re looking to bring the outdoor cooking experience indoors this fall, you may want to move quickly. IKEA has added this pan, along with several other cast-iron essentials, to its ‘Last Chance’ section as it clears remaining stock. Once it's gone, it's gone, and this is one kitchen upgrade you may wish you hadn’t missed.
I’ve rounded up some of the best cast-iron pieces for keeping the spirit of summer cooking alive indoors, alongside the essential tools you need to clean and care for cookware.
All prices were correct at the time of publication.
Le Creuset Signature Square Skillet Grill
The enameled cast iron Signature Square Skillet Grill brings outdoor cooking in and eliminates the need for the traditional seasoning and maintenance of raw cast iron.
Made in a durable cast-iron material that spreads the heat well and gives a crispy and tasty pizza, it is also suitable to use as a frying pan for vegetables, hamburgers, eggs and sausages.
I loved this Dutch oven on test, finding results comparable to the much more expensive Le Creuset. This is your last chance to invest, too.
FINEX Cast Iron Care Kit
Chainmail scrubbers are highly recommended by chefs for cast iron care, as they are strong enough to remove stuck on a flacking debris, without damaging the seasoning layer below. This care kit comes complete with a scrubber and wooden scraper.
These erasers restore damaged cast iron, removing rust and tarnish from family heirlooms and grill pans accidentally left outside. The versatile cleaners can also be used on knives, tools, and grill grates.
Grapeseed oil is often touted as the best seasoning oil for cast iron, recommended by chefs for its high smoke point, neutral flavor, and affordability.
Next, brush up on how to clean cast iron to keep your new pan looking and performing its best for years to come.
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