Can you use Cast Iron on Glass Top Stove?
As we all know Cast iron is the most commonly used cookware in the kitchen, but the question arises is it safe to use cast iron on a glass top stove?
Well, yes, you can safely use a cast iron skillet or pot on a glass-top stove. However, there are certain tips and precautions that you need to keep in mind.
Using Cast Iron on Glass Top Stoves Safely
Cast Iron is one of the oldest and most reliable cooking materials. It is also one of the most popular for its durability and heat retention properties. However, when comparing the weight of the material to modern cookware, Cast Iron is substantially heavier.
This poses a problem for those with glass top stoves as cast iron has the potential to crack and break the glass surface if not used correctly.
That’s why some people are hesitant to use it on their glass top stoves due to possible damage risks. For those that wish to take the plunge, here are a few tips on how to safely use cast iron on glass top stoves:
Prep the cast iron cookware
Prior to cooking with cast iron cookware on glass top stoves, it is important to prepare the material by thoroughly cleaning and drying off the bottom of the pan. This will help remove any leftover food or debris which can cause stains and damage to the stove surface. To get the maximum benefit from this process, it is best practice to clean your cast iron pan shortly after you have finished using it.
Use Cast Iron with Smooth Bottom
If you just flip your cast iron cookware and will take a look at the bottom, chances are you will find either stamp of the brand logo or it will have a very rough surface. This is the reason why you need to make sure that the bottom of your cast iron cookware should be smooth and free of any rough or uneven surfaces before using it on glass top stoves.
Use a Heat Diffuser
A heat diffuser is an essential tool for using cast iron on glass top stoves. It helps to evenly distribute the heat and prevents direct contact of the pan with the surface of the stove. This will protect both your cookware and your glass top from any potential damage that could be caused by high temperatures or heavy pans.
Use Low Heat Settings
When using cast iron on glass top stoves, it’s important to use low heat settings. High temperatures can damage the cooktop and leave permanent marks or burns. Start with a low setting and slowly increase the temperature if needed. This will ensure that your food is cooked properly without damaging your cookware or stove.
Avoid Dragging the Pans
When using cast iron on glass top stoves, it’s important to avoid dragging the pan across the surface. Glass is a very fragile material, and dragging heavy pans can cause scratches or chips on the surface of the stove. Use two hands to lift and move your pans to prevent any potential damage.
Use Oven Mitts
If you’re using cast iron cookware on a glass-top stove, make sure to wear oven mitts at all times. Otherwise, the hot handle of your pan may give off an unpleasant shock and cause it to slip out of your grasp onto the surface below. And it could break your top glass stove.
Avoid using Cast Iron With Rough Bottom
As you know, most cast iron cookware has a rough bottom, which could cause scratches on the glass top stove with continuous use. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid using cast iron cookware that has a rough bottom surface on your glass-top stove.
If you use them, at least season them properly and make sure the bottom surface is smoothed out to prevent any potential damage.
Clean Up Spills Immediately
It’s also important to clean up any spills that occur when using cast iron on glass top stoves. Glass surfaces can be easily stained by food or liquids and should be wiped up immediately to prevent permanent damage. Use a soft cloth and warm water to gently wipe away any messes as soon as they occur.
Choose the right size cookware
Another important factor to consider when using cast iron on glass top stoves is the size of your cookware. Make sure that the size of your pots and pans is appropriate for the size of your stove.
If they are too large, they can cause uneven heating. Be sure to use the right size cookware every time to ensure that your food is cooked properly and that your stove remains intact.
FAQs
Can you use a lodge cast iron skillet on a glass top stove?
Using Lodge Cast Iron Skillet on glass top stove is absolutely possible, however, you should avoid sliding the pan across the cooktop surface and instead pick it up when you need to move it around.
Can you use enameled cast iron on glass top stove?
Enameled Cast Iron unlike traditional Cast Iron is well-suited for glass top stoves. The enamel coating on the cast iron prevents it from scratching the glass surface, and its dense weight helps to evenly distribute heat across the stovetop.
Enameled Cast Iron cookware also has a smoother cooking surface than traditional Cast Iron, making it easier to use with a flat cooking surface.
Additionally, enameled Cast Iron is non-porous and won’t absorb smells or flavors from food, so it can be used on any type of stovetop without the worry of contamination.
Can you use a cast iron Dutch Oven on a glass top stove?
Dutch Ovens can be used on glass top stoves, as long as they are properly placed and kept to a minimum temperature. It’s important to not place the Dutch Oven directly onto the stovetop, but instead, use a heat diffuser or heat trivet between the two surfaces.
Can you use a cast iron griddle on a glass-top stove?
It is possible to use a cast iron griddle on a glass top stove, as long as you take the proper precautions to prevent damage and ensure safety.
Can you use Staub cast iron on the glass top stove?
Staub Cast Iron is one of the best enameled cast iron products currently available on the market. It is safe to use Staub Cast Iron cookware on glass top stoves since its enameled surface protects it from scratching or damaging the cooking surface.
Can you use pampered chef cast iron on the glass top stove?
Yes, you can use pampered chef cast iron on a glass-top stove. Just be sure to place a heat diffuser between the cookware and the stovetop surface to ensure even heat distribution and to protect the glass from overheating.
Be sure not to slide or drag the cookware across the glass as this may cause scratching.
