Yes, you can boil milk in an iron pan. Iron pans, such as cast iron pans, are safe to use for boiling milk and cooking a variety of foods. However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:
Seasoning: If you are using a cast iron pan, make sure it is well-seasoned before boiling milk. Seasoning creates a natural non-stick surface and helps prevent the milk from sticking to the pan or acquiring any metallic taste. A well-seasoned cast iron pan is safe for boiling milk and cooking other foods without any issues.
Gentle Heat: When boiling milk in any pan, including iron pans, it's important to use gentle heat. Avoid high heat settings, as milk can easily scorch and stick to the bottom of the pan. Low to medium heat is sufficient for boiling milk safely.
Stirring: Stir the milk regularly while it's boiling to prevent it from forming a skin on the surface and to ensure even heating.
Cleaning: After boiling milk, clean the pan promptly. Milk can leave behind residues that may affect the seasoning of the pan if not cleaned properly.
Iron pans have excellent heat retention properties, which is beneficial for slow and even cooking. Once properly seasoned and cared for, they can be a valuable addition to your kitchen and are perfectly suitable for boiling milk, making sauces, and preparing various dishes. Just be sure to follow the guidelines mentioned above to ensure safe and effective milk boiling in an iron pan.