Avocado oil is one of the healthiest and most versatile oils out there, thanks to its high smoke point and numerous health benefits.
However, it can be difficult to use with cast iron cookware due to its tendency to smoke and burn at high temperatures. In this article, we’ll share the secrets to cooking with avocado oil on cast iron effectively.
Key takeaway
- Use high-quality avocado oil with a smoke point of at least 500 degrees Fahrenheit
- Preheat your cast iron pan on low heat before increasing temperature to your desired cooking temperature
- Apply a thin layer of avocado oil to the pan using a brush or paper towel
- Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent the oil from smoking
- Add salt to your food after cooking to prevent the breakdown of the oil
Choosing the right avocado oil
When choosing an avocado oil to use with cast iron, look for one with a high smoke point of at least 500 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that the oil won’t breakdown and produce harmful smoke while cooking on high heat.
Preheating the pan
One of the most important steps in cooking with avocado oil on cast iron is preheating the pan properly. To do this, start by heating the pan on low heat and gradually increasing the temperature to your desired cooking temperature. This process ensures that the pan is evenly heated and reduces the chance of the oil smoking or burning.
Applying the oil
Once the pan is preheated, it’s time to apply the avocado oil. Use a brush or paper towel to apply a thin layer of oil to the pan, making sure to cover the entire surface evenly. This will create a non-stick surface and prevent your food from sticking to the pan.
Avoid overcrowding the pan
It’s important to avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking with avocado oil on cast iron. This can cause the oil to smoke and break down, creating an unpleasant flavor. Instead, cook in batches or use a larger pan to avoid overcrowding.
Salt after cooking
Adding salt to your food before cooking can cause the breakdown of the avocado oil, leading to a bitter taste. To avoid this, add salt after cooking to enhance the flavor of your dish.
Table 1: Smoke points of different oils
| Oil | Smoke point (°F) |
|---|---|
| Avocado oil | 520 |
| Coconut oil | 350 |
| Olive oil | 375 |
| Canola oil | 400 |
List: Benefits of avocado oil
- High in healthy monounsaturated fats
- Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds
- Helps improve cholesterol levels
- Promotes healthy skin and hair
- May help reduce symptoms of arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease
Conclusion
Cooking with avocado oil on cast iron can be easy and delicious if you follow these tips. Start by choosing a high-quality oil with a high smoke point, preheat your pan properly, apply a thin layer of oil, avoid overcrowding the pan, and add salt after cooking. With these secrets, you’ll be able to enjoy all the benefits of avocado oil without compromising the flavor of your dishes.