Netherton Foundry is a family owned business located in South Shropshire. We sit right in the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution. This was the 18th Century's "Silicon Valley". Today the heavy iron and coal industries are all but a distant memory and, for the most part, this corner of rural England has returned to a much quieter way of life. At Netherton Foundry, we have been inspired by the 18th and 19th centuries' Shropshire Iron masters, especiallyAbraham Darby. He was the creator of the world's first iron bridge. We wish to look again at the values that inspired this amazing period of creativity and energy. However, we also wish to learn from their mistakes and avoid the misuse of this beautiful county.
We have been designing cooking products for over three decades. Over the years we have become more and more interested in the provenance of the materials we use. Our objective is to build quality products made from materials principally sourced in Shropshire and its neighbouring counties. In our own small way, we are committed to reducing our impact on this fragile planet by building products that will last, from materials we trust.
Netherton Foundry cookware is made from spun iron, a traditional material formed by spinning sheets of iron into shape. The cookware is then pre-seasoned with natural oils to create a durable, naturally non-stick cooking surface.
What is the difference between spun iron and cast iron?
Spun iron and cast iron are both made from iron, but they are manufactured differently.
Cast iron is poured into molds and tends to be thicker and heavier. Spun iron is shaped by spinning iron sheets on a lathe, resulting in cookware that is lighter, thinner, and more responsive to heat while still retaining the durability of iron.
Where is Netherton Foundry cookware made?
Netherton Foundry cookware is handmade in Shropshire, England. The company produces cookware using traditional metalworking techniques and focuses on durable, long-lasting kitchen tools.
Is spun iron cookware naturally non-stick?
Yes. Like cast iron, spun iron develops a natural non-stick surface as it becomes seasoned through cooking. The more it is used with oils and fats, the better the seasoning layer becomes.
Can Netherton Foundry pans rust?
Iron cookware can rust if left wet or stored in a damp environment. However, proper seasoning and drying the pan after washing will prevent rust and maintain the protective surface.
How do you clean spun iron cookware?
After cooking, wash the pan with hot water and a brush or cloth. Avoid leaving the pan soaking in water. Dry it thoroughly and, if desired, apply a very light layer of cooking oil before storing.
My pan has tiny flecks of black on the surface, what are they?
You will see small specks of black on the pan surface when new, these are traces of cotton fibre that has been baked on during the seasoning process as we use washed cotton to apply the flax oil by hand,this is normal. They can be rubbed off with a washing up sponge.
Can Netherton Foundry cookware be used on induction stoves?
Yes. Because spun iron is magnetic, Netherton Foundry cookware works well on induction, gas, electric, and ceramic cooktops.
Is spun iron cookware oven safe?
Yes. Netherton Foundry cookware is oven safe and can easily move from stovetop to oven, making it ideal for dishes such as frittatas, roasted vegetables, and baked skillet meals. Any wooden handles need to be removed before using in the oven.
Does spun iron cookware require seasoning?
Netherton Foundry cookware arrives pre-seasoned, but like all iron cookware it benefits from continued use and occasional additional seasoning to maintain the cooking surface.
Why choose spun iron cookware?
Spun iron cookware offers several advantages:
Lighter than traditional cast iron
Excellent heat responsiveness
Durable and long lasting
Naturally non-stick when seasoned
Suitable for all cooktops, including induction
Many cooks appreciate spun iron as a balance between the durability of cast iron and the responsiveness of steel cookware.
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