Cast Iron Skillet

A cast iron skillet is one of the best investments you can make for your kitchen.  They take a little more effort than a standard frying pan, and cost a little more too, but a quality cast iron skillet will last a lifetime. Cooking in them is easy. They heat well and food doesn't tend to stick too much. They clean up easy, but you have to pay attention to drying them, so they don't rust. Occasionally you have to cure them, which is an easy process. In short, wipe the pan with oil and then bake in the oven. Cast iron pans may have a little learning curve, but when you get it down, you won't settle for anything else.

Kitchen tip: A little baking soda sprinkled in the pan will make a great scrub with a dishrag and soap to easily clean a baked on mess.