Barebones Cast Iron Flat Pan Review

Let’s Talk About Barebones Cast Iron Flat Pan

The Barebones Cast Iron Flat Pan promises versatility in the kitchen and at the campsite, boasting the ability to cook everything from delicate crepes to hearty pizzas. Barebones, known for their blend of classic design and modern functionality, aims to deliver a cooking surface that’s both practical and easy to use. Its portability, lighter weight than traditional skillets, and the promise of natural non-stick properties are major selling points.

I was looking for a reliable cooking surface that I could easily pack for camping trips and use at home without the hassle of a bulky griddle. My existing cast iron skillet is great, but too heavy and unwieldy for backpacking, while my non-stick pans lack the robust durability needed for outdoor cooking over a campfire. The Barebones Cast Iron Flat Pan seemed to offer the perfect balance.

Unboxing the Barebones Cast Iron Flat Pan, I immediately noticed its solid construction and the smooth, pre-seasoned surface. The weight, 7 lbs, felt manageable for its size, and the handle was comfortable to grip. The open sides were a unique design choice that piqued my interest.

Compared to a traditional cast iron skillet, the Barebones Cast Iron Flat Pan is lighter and more portable. Compared to a full-sized cast iron griddle, it takes up significantly less storage space. I ultimately chose this over a standard griddle because of its size and the open sides design, which looked like it would make flipping and serving food much easier than a griddle with raised edges.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to try out its versatility, but also a bit concerned about how well the pre-seasoning would hold up to high-heat cooking over an open flame.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Barebones Cast Iron Flat Pan to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Barebones Cast Iron Flat Pan on a weekend camping trip in the Angeles National Forest. The weather was dry and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 50°F in the morning to 75°F in the afternoon. I primarily used it over a small campfire to cook pancakes and tortillas for breakfast, and grilled vegetables for dinner.

The pan performed well in these conditions. The cast iron heated evenly, and the pre-seasoned surface provided a decent non-stick barrier, especially after a quick re-oiling. Pancakes cooked through without burning, and tortillas heated up evenly without sticking.

The open sides made flipping the tortillas effortless. I was surprised by how easy it was to maneuver food with a spatula without bumping into a raised edge. After the first use, I did notice some slight discoloration on the cooking surface, but nothing that affected its performance.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, both at home and on camping trips, the Barebones Cast Iron Flat Pan has proven to be a reliable cooking tool. There are no signs of warping or cracking, and the handle remains securely attached. The surface has developed a nice patina with regular seasoning.

The pan shows typical signs of wear and tear for cast iron, including minor scratches and some unevenness in the seasoning layer. The Barebones Cast Iron Flat Pan is easy to clean. Immediately after use, I scrape off any food residue, wash it with hot water (no soap!), dry it thoroughly, and then apply a thin layer of oil.

Compared to my old cast iron skillet, the Barebones Cast Iron Flat Pan is much easier to handle and clean. The Barebones Cast Iron Flat Pan heats more evenly than my thinner gauge carbon steel pans and retains heat far better than any non-stick cookware I own. It has definitely exceeded my expectations for both versatility and durability.

Breaking Down the Features of Barebones Cast Iron Flat Pan

Specifications

• The Barebones Cast Iron Flat Pan boasts a 12-inch preseasoned cast iron cooking surface. This provides ample space for cooking multiple items at once and the pre-seasoning simplifies the initial use and maintenance.
• The pan features open sides and a high back. These design elements facilitate easy flipping and serving of food while providing a backsplash.
• It comes with a comfort grip handle. The handle is designed to provide a secure and comfortable grip during use, even with wet or oily hands.
• The pan is crafted for both indoor and outdoor use. The durable cast iron construction makes it suitable for use on stovetops, campfires, and grills.
• The pan is seasoned with sunflower oil. Sunflower oil is known for its high smoke point and ability to create a durable, non-stick seasoning layer.
• The pan weighs 7 lbs. The weight is substantial, typical of cast iron, which contributes to heat retention, but is still manageable for transport.
• The Barebones Cast Iron Flat Pan measures 11.97 x 11.97 x 3.0 inches. Its dimensions make it easy to store, fitting in most kitchen cabinets.

Performance & Functionality

The Barebones Cast Iron Flat Pan excels at cooking items that require even heat distribution and easy flipping. It is perfect for pancakes, crepes, tortillas, pizzas, and grilled vegetables. The open sides make it incredibly easy to flip and serve food, and the high back prevents splatters.

The Barebones Cast Iron Flat Pan’s main strength is its versatility. Its weakness is that it’s still cast iron, which means it requires proper seasoning and care to prevent rusting. This pan meets my expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The Barebones Cast Iron Flat Pan features a classic cast iron design with a modern twist thanks to its open sides. The Barebones Cast Iron Flat Pan is well-built. The materials are high quality, and the handle is comfortable to hold.

The handle on Barebones Cast Iron Flat Pan provides a secure grip, even when wet. The pan is user-friendly. Anyone familiar with cast iron cooking will find it easy to use.

Durability & Maintenance

The cast iron construction of the Barebones Cast Iron Flat Pan ensures that it will last for many years with proper care. The Barebones Cast Iron Flat Pan is easy to maintain. Regular cleaning and seasoning are essential to prevent rust and maintain its non-stick properties.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Barebones Cast Iron Flat Pan doesn’t come with any specific accessories. The versatility of cast iron means it can be used with various spatulas, tongs, and other cooking utensils. Third-party accessories like silicone handle covers can be used.

Pros and Cons of Barebones Cast Iron Flat Pan

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Who Should Buy Barebones Cast Iron Flat Pan?

The Barebones Cast Iron Flat Pan is perfect for campers, outdoor cooking enthusiasts, and home cooks who appreciate the versatility and durability of cast iron. It is well-suited for those who want a single cooking surface that can handle a wide variety of dishes both indoors and outdoors. The open sides are a definite advantage for those who frequently cook items that require flipping or delicate handling.

This product might not be ideal for individuals who are new to cast iron cooking and are intimidated by the seasoning and maintenance requirements. It may also not be the best choice for backpackers who prioritize ultra-lightweight gear.

Must-have accessories for the Barebones Cast Iron Flat Pan include a good quality spatula, a cast iron scraper for cleaning, and a high-heat cooking oil for seasoning.

Conclusion on Barebones Cast Iron Flat Pan

The Barebones Cast Iron Flat Pan delivers on its promise of versatility and durability. Its open-sided design is a unique and practical feature that sets it apart from traditional cast iron skillets and griddles. While it requires regular seasoning and care, the benefits of even heat distribution, long-lasting performance, and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment.

At $54.99, the price is justified given the quality of construction and the versatility it offers. It is a well-made piece of cookware that, with proper care, will last for years.

I would definitely recommend the Barebones Cast Iron Flat Pan to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile cooking surface for both home and outdoor use. Go ahead and add the Barebones Cast Iron Flat Pan to your kitchen or camp kit. You won’t regret it!