Cast iron Dutch ovens have been a staple in the kitchen for centuries, and for good reason.  The material a Dutch oven is made of plays a vital role in its use and functionality.  When it comes to Dutch ovens, cast iron is the material of choice for many home cooks and professional chefs alike.

If you’ve ever scrubbed tirelessly at a skillet after cooking to get rid of grease, a nonstick pan will make you breathe a sigh of relief as food residue washes right off its surface. Suitable for cooking on low and medium heat, nonstick pans also require less oil than other varieties, which is a big selling point for the health-conscious consumer. Nylon and wooden utensils are better suited for use with non-stick pans, as their surface can be delicate and prone to scratching.

Large Cast iron Dutch Oven

If you're an avid cook and the budget permits, ideally you have both a saute pan and a skillet. However, if you only have one and typically make dishes that require sauteing, you're best bet is to own a skillet.

The dual-riveted handle is long and made of the same material as the pan. The straight handle makes it easy to move the skillet and provides a secure grip. Some designs sport a grab handle on the front.

    For oyster lovers, a cast iron oyster grill pan is a must-have.  The individual indentations hold the oysters in place, allowing them to cook with their own juices and absorb the smoky flavor from the grill.  Cast iron oyster grill pan this method of grilling oysters brings out the natural saltiness of the oysters and adds a pleasant charred flavor.