Cast-Iron Alternatives

• Nickel-plated and enameled cast-iron skillets provide the weight, longevity and even heat distribution and retention of regular cast-iron skillets without the mineral leaching and transference. Enameled and nickel-plated cast-iron skillets don't require seasoning, and you can clean nickel-plated skillets in the dishwasher. Both types are oven safe but cost more than regular cast iron; a high-quality 10-inch enameled cast-iron skillet coasts around $100, and a 10-inch nickel-plated skillet coasts around $120.

Stainless Steel

• Tri-ply stainless-steel skillets are oven safe and have the durability and even heat distribution of cast iron but don't retain heat as long. A 10-inch tri-ply stainless-steel skillet costs around $50.