The best Dutch ovens explained
A Dutch oven refers to a deep pot which is typically made of heavy cast iron with a tight fitting lid. Not only is this type of cookware used on a cooktop, but it can also be used in the oven. Home cooks turn to this type of cast-iron pot because of its versatility, excellent heat retention and even heat distribution.
The best Dutch ovens are often the ones that cost more. This is due to the quality of the materials used and the longevity of the product. It’s therefore the overall consensus that you should buy once, buy right when it comes to Dutch ovens as the right one can last for decades.
In saying that, you can also get unexpected levels of quality from more affordable Dutch ovens since true quality doesn’t just refer to durability or what’s on the price tag. It can also be spotted in the food produced, overall functionality of the product as well as in how easy it is to use or clean.
Dutch oven vs casserole dish
Dutch ovens are generally made of either seasoned or enamelled cast iron whereas casserole dishes tend to be made of glass, cast iron or ceramics.
Like Dutch ovens, casserole dishes are oven safe, but unlike Dutch ovens they cannot be used for stovetop cooking. Dutch ovens will effortlessly take you from the stove, to the oven, to the table.
Dutch oven vs French oven
Dutch ovens and French ovens share the same shape and general aesthetic. In fact, a French oven (also known as a cocotte) is a form of round Dutch oven, with the main point of difference being the construction.
While most Dutch ovens are made of cast iron, they are not necessarily made of enamelled cast iron, instead they can be constructed from seasoned cast iron or other materials like stainless steel. However, a French oven exclusively refers to a cast iron pot with an enamel coating. It is this enamel coating top brands like Le Creuset made famous through use of colour
Tips for cooking with enamelled cast iron
Here are our top five tips for cooking with an enamelled cast iron Dutch oven:
Use it on any kitchen stovetop or in the oven up to 250C.
Bring it to heat gradually. Instant high heat can shock the enamel and crack it.
For best results cook on a low to medium heat.
Use oils or oil spray to stop food from sticking to the surface.
Never slide it across your surfaces, alway pick it up to protect the base.
Factors to consider when choosing a Dutch oven
Material. Is it naturally non-stick? Will it require seasoning or extra care?
Size. Dutch ovens are commonly sized by quarts. The standard size is around five to seven quarts. Why not go straight down the middle with a 6-quart Dutch oven?
Weight. Cast iron Dutch ovens can be heavy even when empty. Consider how easy it will be to lift once filled with your favourite dish.
Colour choices. With a wide range of colours to select from, you’re bound to find one that best matches your kitchen decor. Or why not add a few to your wishlist to mix and match later.
Design. Are the handles easy to grip? Does the lid have a knob or a handle?
Care. Be sure to check whether your Dutch oven is dishwasher safe or requires hand washing only.
Warranty. Does it come with a lifetime warranty? This can provide peace of mind when making an investment.
The different uses of a Dutch oven
Dutch ovens can create a wide array of recipes such as soups, stews, curries and more. From quick one-pot meals to slow cooking batches for a week’s worth of lunches, nothing is out of reach. They are most commonly used for braising as well as to sear and saute just like a grill pan or frying pan.
Brands we know and trust
Le Creuset. Famed for its heirloom quality and array of vibrant colours, Le Creuset French Ovens are the ultimate investment piece and feature three layers of enamel coating for exceptional durability.
Chasseur. Chasseur also produces enamelled cast-iron made in France just like Le Creuset, but instead of three layers of enamel it has two layers, which makes it more affordable but also slightly heavier than Le Creuset.
Lodge. A Lodge Dutch oven is made of quality cast iron from the USA. Lodge cast iron is known to be exceptionally durable and, if you select their seasoned cast iron or raw cast iron pots, they can be used on the stove, oven, grill or campfire.
FAQs:
What is special about a Dutch oven?
Aside from its versatility, what makes a Dutch oven special is its ability to retain heat, which is not only a more energy efficient way to cook but also ensures food stays hot and ready to eat long after the stove has been turned off. Just be sure to use a trivet when plating up directly from the table or benchtop.
What is the difference between a Dutch oven and a crock pot?
While both have the ability to slow cook, a crock pot is an electrical appliance whereas a cast iron round Dutch oven is a piece of cookware that can be used on the stove or in the oven.
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