We like to view the humble Dutch oven as equivalent to a chef knife: a multipurpose piece of cookware with a near-endless list of reasons why you should have one in your kitchen.
Here, we’ll discuss what Dutch ovens are traditionally used for, the different materials they can be made of, and what makes our iteration so unique. Follow along to find out all you need to know about this versatile piece.
What Is a Dutch Oven?
A Dutch oven is a heavy-duty pot that is designed for low and slow cooking. Part of its versatility is due to its high walls, exceptional heat retention, and substantial depth. Because of its cast iron core, Dutch ovens retain heat, allowing you to get a good sear on proteins. This is why it’s one of the most popular vessels for braising, and also ideal for building flavor in stews or chili.
What are Dutch Ovens Made Of?
Dutch ovens are typically made of one of two varieties of cast iron—unfinished or enameled. An unfinished (or "raw") cast iron Dutch oven features an entire body made of pure cast iron that needs to be seasoned before its first use. Similar to carbon steel, acidic ingredients like lemon, tomato, vinegar, or wine will damage the seasoning as raw cast iron is a reactive material.
On the other hand, enameled cast iron features a raw cast iron core with a protective enamel coating. This provides it with the same high heat capabilities as its unfinished counterpart, but with the added benefits of a smooth, nonreactive cooking surface that doesn't require seasoning. Enameled Dutch ovens are both more versatile and easier to care for.
What Is a Dutch Oven Used for?
The uses for Dutch ovens are near endless. To name a few:
- Deep frying because the walls not only retain heat, but keep the oil splatter to a minimum. It’s large enough to submerge batches of chicken wings or donuts in hot oil without overcrowding the pan.
- Baking homemade bread. It’s deep enough for the dough to have room to rise in the oven, and our signature Cloud Cover Lid allows moisture to be evenly distributed for a perfectly crispy crust.
- Braising and searing meat, seafood, or vegetables, as the generous cooking surface area allows for full contact with your ingredients of choice.
What Sizes Do Dutch Ovens Come In?
Dutch ovens are traditionally either circular or oval-shaped and come in a wide range in sizes, from as small as two to as large as nine quarts. Most home cooks will want a Dutch oven that can easily fit a loaf of bread, braised short ribs for four, or a large batch of soup.
While oval Dutch Ovens are great for oven braising or roasting a whole chicken, the circular option is the most popular as it’s easy to stir and comfortably fits all burners.
Ready to Shop?
- Round Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven
- 5.5 QT · Harbour Blue
- $249
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Now that you know all about Dutch Ovens, it’s time to purchase one for yourself. Our Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven was a labor of love many years in the making. We partnered with artisans in Northeastern France who have been pouring cast iron for over a century.
We start with a cast iron core that’s then sent up the road to be hand-enameled to give it a smooth exterior and interior. This piece of heirloom quality Cookware is even beautiful enough to serve from and if cared for properly, can last for years to come.
