I love cooking with cast iron. Breakfast, lunch, or dinner—it’s my go-to pan. Cast iron is tough and, with proper care, it can last for decades. However, not everything belongs in it. Certain foods can damage your cookware or affect flavor. Here’s what to skip and why.

1. Skip Highly Acidic Foods
Tomatoes, lemons, and other acidic foods react with cast iron. They can wear down the seasoning and leave a metallic taste. I used to think this was a myth—until I made shakshuka. The tomato-based dish tasted awful, with a harsh, metallic bite. Lesson learned!

Tip: Stick to stainless steel or non-stick pans for acidic ingredients.

source: Cleveland Clinic
2. Watch Out for Strong Smells
Fish, strong cheeses, and loads of garlic can leave behind stubborn odors. Baking your cast iron at 400°F for 10 minutes often helps, but not always. Some smells hang on, no matter what.