Even Heat Distribution: Black cast iron griddles and grill pans distribute heat evenly, ensuring that food is cooked consistently and thoroughly. This feature is essential for achieving optimal searing and browning of meats and vegetables.

Durability and Longevity: Big black cast iron skillets are built to last a lifetime and beyond. With proper care and maintenance, they become seasoned over time, developing a natural non-stick surface that improves with use.

Cast Iron Skillets Versatility

Skillets on the other hand, have semi-vertical sides that flare outwards from the base. This is unlike the frying pan because it does not have curved edges. Again, do not confuse skillets with saute pans as the skillet widen outwards while saute pan does not.

When it comes down to it, as far as high-temperature searing (as for steaks) goes, the pans are equally efficient. A skillet offers advantages for sautéing, and a sauté pan offers advantages for shallow-frying, moderate-temperature searing (as for chicken pieces), or braising. In an ideal world, you'd have both, but if I had to pick one, I'd go with the skillet, as sautéing is a step in nearly every recipe I make.

Skillets are the heavier option because of its thickness, the material used to craft it, and larger size. This extra weight allows skillets to distribute heat evenly and retain heat better, making it ideal for recipes that involve searing and braising.

Indoor and Outdoor Cooking: Griddles and grill pans made of black cast iron are suitable for use on stovetops, grills, and even campfires, providing flexibility for indoor and outdoor cooking. This versatility makes them ideal for a range of culinary settings.

Q: What are the disadvantages of using cast iron frying pans?
A: The disadvantages of using cast iron frying pans include their heavy weight, the need for seasoning and maintenance, and their tendency to rust if not properly cared for.