Cast Iron Smooth Vs Rough: Which Is Better?
When you first see a new cast iron pan, you may notice its pebbled surface and think there's something wrong with the pan. Almost all modern cast iron cookware is made in this way, with a slightly rougher cast iron texture. To add some confusion, this is a relatively new development in cast iron. If you're familiar with old cast iron skillets, you know they look and feel smoother and lighter than modern cast iron skillets. The old and new pans are made from the same materials; they are both casts in the sand. So why the big difference in texture? Primarily, manufacturing methods have changed dramatically from the late 1800s, when cast iron was first made for pans, to the present. Some of the changes have saved money, and some have been made for practical reasons. Both smooth and polished cast iron can be made into very useful and versatile cast iron pans. There are some heated debates among cast iron enthusiasts about which is better, a polished smooth finish or one...