For what purpose is a cast-iron skillet best utilized in cooking?

A cast-iron skillet is best utilized for pan frying due to its excellent heat retention and even heat distribution properties. This type of skillet can withstand high temperatures, which is ideal for achieving a perfect sear on meats and vegetables. The ability to maintain consistent high heat helps in developing rich flavors and a desirable crust, which is crucial in pan frying. Additionally, the natural non-stick surface that develops over time with proper seasoning allows for easy release of food items while cooking.

While cast-iron skillets can be used for other cooking methods, they excel particularly at pan frying. For example, creating sauces typically requires a more controlled and sometimes lower heat than what a cast-iron skillet provides, while steaming vegetables relies on moisture and gentle heat that does not align with the skillet's characteristics. Boiling in a cast-iron skillet is also less common, as the heavy material is not designed for this method, making it less effective than lighter, thinner cookware designed specifically for boiling.