The History of Cast Iron Cookware

• HOA Admin
• August 25, 2022

Cast iron cookware is valued for its durability, high heat retention, and non-sticking cooking. But do you know that cast iron cookware traces back several centuries? Yes! Most modern cast iron utensils like Dutch ovens, pans, grills, and fryers were only invented and popularised in the last few hundred years. 

The History of Cast Iron 

The first known use of cast iron cookware was in China several centuries ago, during the Han Dynasty. During the 16th century, casting techniques became widespread in Europe and became a household cooking staple. The 19th century saw a boom in cast iron pots when they were made with handles or had legs to stand on the coal. This period also saw the introduction of the flat cast-iron skillet and pans with legless, flat bottoms. Cast iron fell out of favour in the 20th century as Teflon-coated aluminium non-stick cookware became a preferred choice in the kitchen.

In the 2010s, many startups started producing cast-iron cookware for specialty markets. Over the last decade, people have begun valuing these heirloom utensils again for the plethora of benefits they provide. 

Reasons Why Cast Iron is Becoming Popular Again

Today, cast-iron cookware from the 19th and 20th centuries has continued to see its use in contemporary kitchens. People have turned to the old cookware history of cast iron cookware for the following reasons:

• Cast iron cookware improves the quality of cooked meals by retaining heat evenly.
• Cast iron cookware is known to boost immunity by preventing iron deficiency. 
• Cast iron utensils last longer than stainless steel and aluminium utensils. 
• Cast iron cookware is visually appealing.
• Cast iron cookware is available in a wide range – from pans, griddles, and grills to woks and more.

Make a switch to these heirloom utensils by shopping from our cast iron cookware collection.