equipment$25–35used in 2 side quests
Cast iron skillet (10-12 inch)
Heavy iron pan that holds heat incredibly well and develops a natural non-stick surface over time. Forces you to learn real temperature control because there's nowhere to hide.
What to look for
- 110–12 inch diameter (fits most stovetops, feeds 2–4 people)
- 2Pre-seasoned so it's ready to use immediately
- 3Even thickness throughout (cheap ones have thin spots that warp)
- 4Oven-safe to at least 500°F for stovetop-to-oven techniques
Skip
- Bare unseasoned iron requiring hours of prep before first use
- Sizes smaller than 10 inches (too limited) or bigger than 12 (too heavy for most)
- Enameled cast iron for learning—you need to feel the seasoning develop
Used for: learning heat management and proper searing · building cooking skills that transfer to any pan · going from stovetop to oven for finishing dishes
Side quests that use it
Pick the adventure first; the gear follows.

