In previous years the best cast iron cookware was the old traditional cookware that provided for long lasting pots and pans and with the proper care became family heirlooms. Cast iron cookware is not designed to be nonstick so you need to season it first before you begin to use it. They typically need to be seasoned with an oil baked at a low temperature.
This helps to ensure that the pan has oil deep inside the pores and therefore is less likely to have food stick. Some of the better cast iron cookware already comes pre-seasoned so they are ready to use right out of the box. The seasoning process tends to last for quite a while but needs to be repeated every so often.
However some things have changed since the old traditional cast iron cookware was introduced. Today some of the best cast iron cookware comes with an enamel coated surface. Many manufacturers of cast iron cookware offer them with a an enamel coating and in a variety of color choices.
Other advantages to the enameled versus uncoated cast iron is that the enamel coating makes cleaning easier and you do not have to perform the re-seasoning that you must continue to do for the uncoated cast iron. Also, unlike traditional cast iron, the enamel coating is a non-reactive surface so you can cook tomatoes, add vinegar and other acidic ingredients without worry and if nothing else the enamel coated cookware will not rust.
Another reason why this is the best cast iron cookware on the market today is that it is usually available in a variety of color choices for today's design-conscious kitchen. You can take this stylish enamel cookware right from the stove or oven and directly to the kitchen table or dining room because it is a great show piece, unlike traditional cast iron cookware which has a more rustic appearance to it.