Can you use cast iron on a glass-top stove or cooktop?
Cast iron cookware can be used on a ceramic glass-top stove without causing damage to the surface or pan itself. Take the stress out of dinner with the ability to cook a variety of different meals in a cast iron pan without damaging your cooktop. Learn how to use cast iron on ceramic glass-top stoves with this guide.
How do you use cast iron on a glass cooktop?
Cast iron cookware can be used on a glass cooktop if you take a few precautions. You’ll want to avoid sliding the cookware on the surface and understand that cast iron heats slowly, yet retains heat for a long period of time. This material is ideal for browning, frying and slow cooking when you need to move a dish from the stovetop to the oven. The versatility and durability of cast iron make it a must-have in your kitchen.
How to protect glass-top stoves from cast iron
Before cooking with cast iron, make sure the bottom of the pan is clean and dry. If you need to switch heating elements while cooking, be mindful to lift and gently place the cookware, as opposed to sliding or dropping, which can cause scratches and damage to the surface. Follow these tips to keep your glass-top stove sleek and smooth while cooking with cast iron.
1. Prep the cast iron cookware
Make sure to thoroughly clean, wipe and dry the bottom of your cast iron pan to get rid of any residue before cooking. Leftover food or debris can cause stains and damage to the glass surface. As a best practice, make sure to clean the cast iron shortly after you are done using it.
2. Preheat the cast iron
Cast iron takes longer to heat up, although it retains heat for long periods of time. Be sure to factor in slightly longer cooking times if you are using skillets, Dutch ovens or other cast iron cookware.
3. Move with care
Cast iron is heavier than other cookware, and glass surfaces are susceptible to damage. Be mindful to gently place cast iron pans on the surface to avoid damage and cracks. While cooking, refrain from sliding the cookware around, but carefully lift and place instead if you need to reposition it. When you are done cooking, promptly remove the cast iron from the glass surface and place it on a cooling rack or trivet to avoid scorch marks.
4. Cleaning
After you are done cooking, remove the cast iron pan from the cooktop. Let the surface cool and wipe the ceramic glass-top stove clean. This simple process can keep your cooktop sleek and smooth, while also saving you time and effort by cleaning up before any spills settle.
Next, clean your cast iron pan:
Use a scraper to remove any food soils.
Add hot water to the pan to help break up baked-on messes.
Wipe the interior and exterior until all leftover food is removed.
After the pan is clean, place it back on the cooktop surface to heat and dry thoroughly.
Avoid soaking the pan in water. If needed, consider adding a light coating of oil to your cast iron pan to retain its seasoning and flavors infused from cooking.
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Can I use a Dutch oven on a glass-top stove?
Dutch ovens made from cast iron can be used on a glass-top stove and are great for whipping up soups and stews for dinnertime. To avoid damage, make sure the bottom of the cookware is smooth, and avoid dropping or sliding the Dutch oven across the glass surface.
Cast iron alternatives for glass-top stoves
Cookware material factors into cooking methods and care for glass-top stoves. Learn more about the characteristics of cast iron alternatives, including aluminum, ceramic, copper, enameled cast iron and stainless steel cookware.
Aluminum - suitable for all types of cooking tasks and heats up quickly and evenly
Ceramic - best used on low to medium heat; heats slowly, yet unevenly
Copper - provides quick and even heating
Enameled cast iron - smooth, stick-resistant cookware that heats slowly and evenly
Stainless steel - heats up quickly and evenly with a base of aluminum or copper
What cookware should not be used on a glass-top stove?
With the proper precautions to prevent damage, most types of cookware can be used on a glass-top stove. However, if you are using cast iron skillets or other heavy cookware, be careful when setting them down on the surface to avoid cracks and damage to the glass.
Refer to your product’s use and care guide for full recommendations and precautions.
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