Chef's Starter Set No.8: Everyday Cast Iron Cooking for Two
By Field Company - Smoother, Lighter Cast Iron Skillets | Published: 2026-11-05
Category: Guias Práticos
A practical guide to using the Chef's Starter Set No.8 for everyday cast iron cooking for two, with steps for seasoning, searing, braising, and care.
Quick answer
Use the Chef's Starter Set No.8 as your daily pan for two: season it lightly, preheat it properly, and rely on the matching lid for braises and steam. The No.8 size suits most meals for two without the bulk of larger skillets.
Why the No.8 size works for two
The No.8 skillet hits a sweet spot for couples: it is large enough to sear two steaks or roast a small chicken, yet light enough to handle with one hand when you add the leather cover. That balance matters when you cook every day and do not want to wrestle a heavy pan.
The matching lid turns the skillet into a braiser or steamer, so you can make one-pan meals like chicken with rice or steamed vegetables without pulling out extra pots.
What the set includes and what it does not
The set comes with the No.8 Skillet, a matching lid, a vegetable-tanned leather handle cover, and a Chef's Slotted Turner. The turner is available in left- or right-handed dexterity, and the handle cover comes in several colors. What it does not include is a second skillet or a Dutch oven; if you often cook for more than two, you may want to add a larger pan later.
Step-by-step: everyday cooking for two with the No.8 set
- Season the skillet before first use: Wash the skillet with warm water and mild soap, dry it thoroughly, then rub a thin layer of cooking oil over the entire surface, including the handle. Heat it in a 450°F oven for 30 minutes, then let it cool. Common mistake: using too much oil, which leaves a sticky residue. Checkpoint: the surface should look dry, not greasy, when you finish.
- Preheat the skillet gradually: Place the skillet on the stove over medium heat for 3–5 minutes before adding oil or food. This gives you an even cooking surface and helps prevent sticking. Common mistake: turning the heat to high immediately, which can cause hot spots. Checkpoint: a drop of water should sizzle and evaporate quickly when the pan is ready.
- Sear protein for two: Pat two steaks or chicken breasts dry, season them, and place them in the preheated skillet with a little oil. Sear without moving until a crust forms, then flip. Common mistake: crowding the pan, which steams the meat instead of searing it. Checkpoint: leave space between pieces; if they touch, cook in batches.
- Use the lid for braising or steaming: After searing, add liquid and vegetables, then cover with the matching lid and reduce the heat to low. Simmer until the food is tender. For vegetables, add a splash of water and cover to steam. Common mistake: leaving the lid off during braising, which lets moisture escape. Checkpoint: the lid should fit snugly; if steam escapes freely, lower the heat.
- Clean and store the set: Let the skillet cool slightly, then wipe it clean with a paper towel or scrub it with a brush and warm water. Dry it on the stove over low heat, then apply a very thin layer of oil. Common mistake: soaking the skillet or putting it in the dishwasher. Checkpoint: the skillet should be completely dry before storing to prevent rust.
Product facts
- Chef's Starter Set No.8: The No.8 Skillet is described as a balance of weight and versatility for sautéing, searing, roasting, and baking. That means one pan can cover most of your daily cooking tasks for two, from stovetop to oven.
Chef's Starter Set No.8 - Chef's Starter Set No.8: The set includes a matching lid for braising, steaming, and melting. You can cook moist one-pan dishes and melt toppings without needing a separate pot.
- Chef's Starter Set No.8: A vegetable-tanned leather handle cover and a Chef's Slotted Turner are included. The cover makes it safer to move the hot skillet, and the turner is sized for flipping and serving.
