It’s interesting that a simple conversation with a friend can trigger the memory of an event that happened decades ago.
Recently, while a friend and I were discussing the types of pans we use most, something was said that brought back the memory of an event from the fall of 1953. I was visiting a farm family near Uniontown. The lady of the house invited me to stay for the “Cookware Party.” It was something like a Tupperware party but with metal instead of plastic.
The presenter arrived and started setting up his display. He was a fast-talking salesman with lines like, “Tell ya what I’m gonna do.” Other than that, I clearly recall his comment, “We use utensils to cook with. Pots are for when you can get out of bed, while pans are used when you can’t.” Then, he laughed. However, the conservative farm ladies didn’t think it was funny. I was the only one who thought it was mildly amusing, other than him. Since I wasn’t cooking at that time, I had little interest in his wares. I think he sold a couple of utensils. I mainly remember the wonderful cake and ice cream served after he was finished.
Most of us don’t think much about what we cook with, as long as it works. However, you should give it some thought. For example, when Patti and I first got together, she was borderline anemic. At some point later, she discovered her iron level was where it should be. She didn’t cook with cast iron, while I use cast iron skillets whenever possible. Some iron leeches into the food in small amounts while cooking.
The person I was talking with said she had started using cast iron instead of non-stick skillets. She wasn’t sure about her family’s iron levels but felt the food tasted better.
Enjoy and stay safe!
If you have suggestions or questions for this column, please contact me either through this newspaper at buckscountyherald.com or at guthrielarason@verizon.net.
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