Bayou Classic 14-inch Cast Iron Skillet

We purchased this skillet because we needed one in this size which is a little larger than usual. My husband does the cooking and he prefers using cast iron. It is easy to clean and we don't have to worry about whether a non-stick coating is bad for our health. It is heavy so ladies should be aware. I cannot lift with one hand but since he does the cooking that is not a problem for us.

• How did the color on site compare with the actual product? yes
• Please tell us about the quality of the product. The quality of this product met all our expectations. I believe that some of the problems others have had have to do with them not seasoning the pan correctly before use. Once this is done the surface is smooth and there is no sticking.
• How accurate was the on site description of the product? Decription was accurate
• Would you recommend this to a friend? Yes

I use cast-iron pans all the time, and this size is exactly what I needed for four beef tenderloins or three NY strips. Gives a fabulous pan-sear and then goes right into a hot oven, no worries. I love it for so many things - from skillet cornbread, to pan-roasted potatoes, to steaks/chicken...pretty much anything that needs a good crust or requires even heat on the bottom.

• How did the color on site compare with the actual product? exact
• Please tell us about the quality of the product. heavy
• How accurate was the on site description of the product? exact
• Would you recommend this to a friend? Yes

A 14 inch cast pan is really much larger and heavier than a 12 inch. I expected this, but was still surprised. The weight is excellent for keeping it in place on the stove as you move things around. The weight is also a very positive attribute because it holds heat much better than a smaller or lighter pan. The actual flat cooking surface is a bit rough, which is true of all new cast iron pans. I have started the seasoning process using lard and intend to cook bacon and other fatty items in it for awhile to build up a nice low stick surface.It is a nice flat bottom, so it does not wiggle on my gas range. One key to frying food, like chicken for example, is not letting the fat cool off too much when adding food. This pan can will really help with keeping the fat hot to avoid greasy food.

• How did the color on site compare with the actual product? It is black
• Please tell us about the quality of the product. Very good casting.
• How accurate was the on site description of the product? Perfect
• Would you recommend this to a friend? Yes

The pan is very sturdy but, now that I know more about cast iron, am not so pleased with it. The surface is a bit rough and the top edges are sharp. I've seen other cast iron and they are very smooth on the cooking surface. I also wish it had the carrying handle across from the handle as it's so heavy to lift with one hand.

• How did the color on site compare with the actual product? Exactly the same color.
• Please tell us about the quality of the product. The pan is very sturdy but is a bit bumpy on the surface and the edges of the top are sharp.
• How accurate was the on site description of the product? Accurate
• Would you recommend this to a friend? No