Le Creuset Enameled Cast-Iron 8-by-11-3/4-Inch Rectangular Baking Dish, Cobalt Blue Review

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(More customer reviews)As a classically trained chef, I have an extensive collection of kitchen items not always found in a typical home. I tend to think of kitchen products from a professional point of view, although I enjoy many items made for home use. Le Creuset is uncommon in professionally kitchens; however they manufacture quality and effective products.

Le Creuset's porcelain enameled cast iron cooking vessels are cast from molten iron formed in single use sand moulds. Covering cast iron with porcelain enamel not only looks good, but has multiple benefits. The enamel, being a solid coating, is one of the most hygienic surfaces to cook on, does not stain, absorb odors, retain flavors, and is easy to clean eliminating the need for seasoning and preventing rust issues. Limit cooking tools to plastic or wood to prevent damaging the enamel.

Cast iron is a highly efficient material which absorbs and distributes heat efficiently. For this reason, it is recommended to use on low to medium heat. There are a few exceptions like boiling water where cooking on high heat is appropriate and okay. Otherwise, cooking with high heat may cause food to stick, discolor the enamel coating, or unevenly cook the food. Cast iron also retains heat, keeping food warm while serving.

This pan holds 2 1/2 quarts of food, measures 7 3/4 x 11 1/4 x 2 inches internally, and weighs 6 pounds 10 ounces. 2 1/2 quarts will typically feed 4 - 6 people when it comes to casseroles, consider the larger roaster to feed more. Except for roasts, the roasting pan tends to do best if at least 3/4 full. Any less and you may overwhelm your food with the pan's evenly dispersed heat.

Two features people tend to complain about are the cost and weight. The cost seems steep compared to common pans made from other materials. Compare to quality cookware, and the cost may seem more reasonable. When comparing to the old cast iron pans past generations have used for cornbread and camping, Le Creuset seems expensive. However the manufacturing process requires making a mould for each and every pan produced. They then go through the enameling process before shipping these heavy pans. If you take what goes into making and distributing these high quality cast iron products, the cost tends to make sense. Then consider this pan will easily last a lifetime when taken care of. Additionally cast iron is a heavy material. The enamel doesn't add much to the weight, when comparing to a similar cast iron product, the weight is going to be comparable.

I find the many benefits of Le Creuset make this pan a worthy purchase. This pan adds a desirable crispy texture to dishes like mac-n-cheese. Add a roasting rack and this pan is perfect for roasting chickens. The enamel is attractive, while the cast iron keeps the food warm for serving. Cleaning and caring for this dishwasher safe pan is easy. When properly taken care of, this pan will last a lifetime.

Knowing the benefits and the pleasure I get from using Le Creuset, I don't hesitate to recommend this pan. If you choose to purchase this pan, and use it for its strengths you won't be disappointed.

PROS:
Efficient heat absorption and distribution
Hygienic enamel cooking surface
Does not stain, absorb odors, or retain flavors
Easy to clean when not abused or misused
Can be transferred from stove top to the oven to the table
Dishwasher safe
Can easily last a lifetime

CONS:
Its heavy, as cast iron tends to be, weighing 6 pounds 10 ounces

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Product Description:
Excelled in evenly distributing and efficiently retaining heat, this enameled cast-iron baking dish with its sleek, low profile makes a useful and versatile addition to any busy kitchen. The rectangular-shaped roaster measures 8 by 11-3/4 by 2-3/4 inches and can hold up to 2-1/2 quarts. Use it for a variety of home-cooked meals--from oven-roasted chicken breasts and homemade lasagna to casseroles or even a side of roasted new potatoes.
Like other pieces in Le Creuset's line of enameled cast iron, the cookware's exterior features a colorful, long-lasting enamel that resists chipping and cracking, while its durable, nonreactive sand-colored enamel interior offers a smooth surface for cooking and an optimal palette for food presentation. As cast iron is unexcelled for even heat distribution and superior heat retention, and enamel is impervious to acids and odors, the baking dish cooks food uniformly and gently without hot spots and can be used for marinating, cooking on the stovetop, or finishing in the oven. The cookware also provides integral side handles for a secure grip, and it can be safely used at any oven temperature, under the broiler, and on any stovetop, including induction. Best of all, it moves gracefully from the oven to the table for serving to the refrigerator or freezer for storing leftovers after a family dinner, party, or holiday meal. The rectangular roaster should be hand washed for best results and carries a lifetime limited warranty.

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