Commentary
During a breakfast at a rooftop bar in New York City’s Refinery hotel, I opted for a dish called “Eggs in Purgatory,” inspired by Dante’s work. This meal consisted of fried eggs in chorizo sausage and salsa, served with sourdough bread in a charming small iron skillet. It was a delightful choice that truly embodied the essence of Refinery.
In today’s world filled with a plethora of cookware options, ranging from non-stick pans to high-tech surfaces, the classic cast-iron skillet stands out as a timeless favorite. Its versatility in both frying and baking tasks makes it a cherished item passed down through generations. Despite the advancements in technology, the simplicity and durability of cast iron remain unparalleled.
Available at affordable prices online, these skillets offer a sense of tradition and reliability that transcends trends. Their enduring appeal lies not only in their cooking abilities but also in the nostalgia and connection to the past that they evoke. In a society focused on constant innovation, the cast-iron skillet serves as a reminder of the enduring value of tried-and-true methods.
While some may feel intimidated by the maintenance and myths surrounding cast iron, the truth is that seasoning and cleaning these skillets is straightforward and rewarding. With proper care, a cast-iron skillet can last a lifetime and enhance the cooking experience in ways that modern cookware cannot replicate.
Embracing the ritual of seasoning, cooking, and cleaning a cast-iron skillet can feel like a return to a simpler time, where craftsmanship and tradition reign supreme. By incorporating this age-old cooking tool into our modern kitchens, we not only elevate our culinary skills but also honor the legacy of generations past. The cast-iron skillet is more than just a piece of cookware—it is a link to our heritage and a symbol of enduring quality.
There is nothing you can do to harm the pan.
Alternatively, you can visit a local Goodwill and probably find a used one there. Some people may be hesitant due to rust, but these pans can be easily restored with some steel wool and reseasoning with oil. You may also come across one at a rummage sale for just a few dollars.
The enduring popularity of the cast-iron skillet makes a point. Technology’s goal is not to be new, complicate your life, or confuse you. Its purpose is to improve your life. In this case, technology can come from any era, even the ancient world.
As the slogan of the Lodge pan company says, iron is forever.
Views expressed in this article are opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
