How to Look After Enamel Cast-Iron Cookware

Enamel cast iron is the most forgiving pan in the kitchen: it holds heat evenly, goes into the oven and comes to the table. It only asks for a little care.

Three habits

• Heat it slowly on a medium flame. Cast iron keeps heat so well that a high flame is never needed.
• Let it cool before you wash it. Cold water on a hot pot can crack the enamel.
• Use wooden or silicone spoons, and soak away anything stuck instead of scraping it.

Stains

A little baking soda and warm water, left for an hour, lifts most marks from the enamel. Dry the rim well before you put the lid back on.