Mastering the Quick and Easy Iron Skillet: Essential Recipes

Every survivalist knows that a good cast iron skillet is one of the best tools you can have in the kitchen. Not only is it perfect for indoor cooking, but it's also great for preparing meals over an open fire. The durability and versatility of cast iron skillets make them invaluable for both everyday cooking and survival situations. This post will explore some quick and easy iron skillet recipes, perfect for any occasion.

Why Choose a Cast Iron Skillet?

Cast iron cookware is renowned for its ability to distribute heat evenly and retain it for long periods. This characteristic is especially important when cooking over a campfire, where hot spots can easily ruin your meal. Additionally, after removing food from the skillet, it will keep your dish warm longer, a benefit when you’re preparing a meal for yourself or your family.

Another advantage of using cast iron is its oven-safe nature. You can cook on the stovetop and then transfer your skillet directly to the oven for versatile cooking scenarios. The unique property of cast iron also allows you to use less oil while still maintaining a non-stick surface, making it a practical choice for health-conscious cooks.

4 Quick and Easy Iron Skillet Recipes to Try Tonight

1. Cast Iron Deep Dish Pizza

While I typically prefer a crispy thin crust, the combination of a crispy outer crust and a fluffy inner crust created by the cast iron skillet is remarkable. The deep dish style allows the crust to rise while providing plenty of space for your favorite toppings. Just be careful to choose toppings that hold well—avoid overly watery vegetables that can make your pizza soggy.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups flour
• 1/4 tsp. active dry yeast
• 3/4 tsp. salt
• 3/4 cup cold water
• 1 tbsp. olive oil, for greasing pan
• 1/3 cup pizza sauce
• 4 oz. mozzarella & provolone cheese mix
• Any desired toppings

Preparation Steps:

Step 1: Combine flour, salt, and yeast in a bowl. Add cold water and mix until a dough forms. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and let it rise for at least 12 hours on your counter.

Step 2: Dust the dough with flour and roll it into a ball. Oil your cast iron pan and press the dough out to the edges. Cover and let it rest for at least another hour.

Step 3: Preheat your oven to its highest setting. If using a fire, adjust the cooking height so the flames are just below your skillet.

Step 4: Add your sauce, cheese, and toppings sparingly. Remember, the pizza cooks quickly, and thick toppings can lead to uneven cooking.

Step 5: Cook for three minutes on a medium-high stovetop burner, then transfer to the oven or place a lid on the skillet to finish baking for another 12-16 minutes, until the crust is golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Allow to cool for five to ten minutes before slicing and serving.

2. The Best Steak You Have Ever Eaten

Cooking steak in a cast iron skillet may take a little longer, but the results are worth it. This method produces a deliciously salty sear on the outside while keeping the inside perfectly medium-rare.

Ingredients:

• Any thick premium cut of beef (porterhouse recommended)
• Salt
• Pepper

Preparation Steps:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 275°F. Line a baking sheet with foil, using a rack to lift the steak off of the sheet. Season with salt and pepper generously and bake until the internal temperature reaches 125°F.

Step 2: Allow the steak to rest for about 20 minutes. This resting period is key to redistributing the meat's juices.

Step 3: Next, heat your cast iron skillet over a fire or stovetop until it's smoking hot. Sear the steak for about 1-2 minutes on each side for a perfect crust.

3. Cast Iron Cornbread

Nothing beats steamy cornbread fresh from the oven, especially when made in a cast iron skillet.

Ingredients:

• 1 Tbsp bacon drippings or butter
• 2 cups cornmeal or 1 1/2 cups cornmeal and 1/2 cup flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 Tbsp sugar
• 2 tsp baking soda
• 1 egg
• 1 1/4 cups buttermilk
• 6 Tbsp butter, melted

4. Cast Iron Apple Dutch Baby

This delightful dish pairs well with breakfast or dessert and is sure to satisfy sweet cravings.

Ingredients:

• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• ¾ cup whole milk, room temperature
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon, divided
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 1 large apple, peeled and sliced
• 1 tbsp light brown sugar

Conclusion

Utilizing a cast iron skillet is not just about cooking; it fosters a deeper connection to traditional culinary practices that can enhance your survival skills. From quick and easy recipes to those that take a little more time and dedication, cast iron skillets prove to be practical and efficient tools for cooking.

Although there are a few drawbacks to using cast iron—its weight and care requirements—what you receive in return is an unrivaled cooking experience that can be utilized in various situations, from everyday meals to outdoor adventures. If you haven't yet explored cast iron cooking, it’s time to delve into these recipes and methods; you'll likely find the results quite impressive!

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Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on Dec 13, 2016, and has been updated for quality and relevancy.

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