Le Creuset Enameled Cast-Iron 9-Inch Skillet with Iron Handle, CherryCast iron skillets have long been treasured kitchen staples for stovetop frying and oven baking � and the Iron Handle Skillet from Le Creuset delivers that same level of reliable performance time and time again. With a durable satin black interior enamel and brilliant exterior enamel, the Iron Handle Skillet is protected inside and out from chipping, cracking and excessive wear. Over time, the skillet's slightly abrasive interior develops a natural patina that is ideal for searing and frying.Comfort foods like cornbread are often prepared in a cast iron skillet lined with bacon drippings or vegetable oil � and chefs everywhere attest to the cast iron skillet's unique ability to produce the desired balance of a crispy golden crust and a soft, fluffy interior.Spacious cooking surface for multiple servings and larger ingredientsLe Creuset's durable black enamel finish (no seasoning required)Even heat distribution and superior heat retention Colorful, long-lasting exterior enamel that resists chipping and crackingA strong iron handle provides a steady grip during use and transferEach piece from our extensive range of high-quality enameled cast iron cookware is designed for ease and versatility of use, fitting in with all styles of cooking, all types of cooking appliances and any style of kitchen or dining decor. Please read this section before using your cookware for the first time. The information it contains will help you achieve the best possible cooking results.Enameled cast iron is a remarkable and robust material that performs well with modern requirements for food preparation and cooking. Whether you choose to stir-fry, slow-cook a casserole, sear a steak or bake a cake, there is a shape that is suitable. Cast iron performs well for either slow cooking or high-temperature searing.Cast iron can be used reliably on any heat source, including induction, and with any oven or grill. It has the ability to retain heat efficiently, which allows for use of lower heat settings in stovetop and oven cooking. On the table, a hot covered dish will keep food hot for second servings.Cast iron can also be used to keep foods cold. A chilled dish becomes an ideal cold food server on a hot summer day. It can also be placed in the freezer for food storage or advanced food preparation.High heat temperatures should only be used for boiling water for vegetables or pasta, or for reducing the consistency of stocks or sauces. High heats should never be used to preheat a pan before lowering the heat for cooking. Cast iron retains heat so efficiently that overheating will cause food to burn or stick.The vitreous enamel surface is impermeable and therefore ideal for raw or cooked food storage, and for marinating with acidic ingredients such as wine.Cooking tips for shallow frying and sauteing:For frying and sauteing, the fat should be hot before adding food. Bring the pan and fat or oil to the correct temperature together.Oil is hot enough when there is a gentle ripple in its surface. For butter and other fats, bubbling or foaming indicates the correct temperature. If either begins smoking, or if butter begins browning, it is too hot and should be cooled slightly before proceeding. The quickest way to do this is to remove the pan from the heat source for a few moments. For longer shallow frying a mixture of oil and butter gives excellent results.