A type of cookware constructed of a heavy metal material known as cast iron, which is a good material for cooking foods. Cast iron absorbs heat well, retaining the warmth and distributing it evenly across the length and width of the cookware. The material slowly absorbs the heat and slowly releases it, thus making it a good choice for slow cooking ingredients. Cast iron may be treated with a coating, such as porcelain enamel or be uncoated. Uncoated cast iron requires a seasoning with oil before use, while coated cast iron most often requires no seasoning.