Showing posts with label dutch oven. Show all posts
Showing posts with label dutch oven. Show all posts

4/28/2012

Staub Coq Au Vin Cocotte Review

Staub Coq Au Vin Cocotte
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I absolutely love this pot! Not only is it beautiful it cooks evenly, browns food wonderfully and leaves a nice fond in the bottom of the pan. A bargain for the serious cook, or those that just want a superior pot for braising, roasting and stewing.

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Product Description:
"Cocotte" in French means "casserole," but there are plenty of dishes that emerge delectably from this cast-iron French oven. Staub celebrates one of the most traditional French recipes - coq au vin, or chicken in wine - with a special version of its classic 6-quart cocotte. Released in an array of rich colors, this limited-edition piece comes topped by a gracefully sculpted, stainless-steel rooster - the "coq." Although the cocotte cooks up a perfect coq au vin, it's also an ideal choice for slow-cooked stews and soups, casseroles, and roasted chicken, as well as many other one-pot meals. Measuring 12 inches in diameter, the cocotte is constructed of durable cast iron with a black matte enameled interior and an enameled ceramic finish that extends to the pot and lid edges to prevent chipping. And with its decorative design, it serves as beautifully as it cooks.
Designed for oven or stovetop use, the cocotte features a smooth, heavy earthenware base that will never warp and can handle any cooking surface, including glass, induction, and convection. As with the pot itself, the handles and lid are cast iron (handles and lid knob do get hot, so use caution) for durability and even heat distribution and retention. The lid features self-basting spikes to continually redistribute juices back to the ingredients as they cook. The cast-iron cocotte doesn't need seasoning and, as cooking oils seep into the pores over time, will become self-seasoning. Oven-safe to 500

4/22/2012

Bayou Classic 7412 12-Quart Cast Iron Dutch Oven with Dutch Oven Lid and Perforated Aluminum Basket Review

Bayou Classic 7412 12-Quart Cast Iron Dutch Oven with Dutch Oven Lid and Perforated Aluminum Basket
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Got a fantastic deal on this with FREE SHIPPING. Whoo-Hoo! (This thing weighs a ton.)
Well made and solid. It does have a tendency to list a bit (off balance) when lifted by the handle (assuming you could, in fact, lift it when full).

This works great on open fires, grill, gas and electric burners, and especially our induction cooktop. I can cook corn on the cob for a whole party (and have on numerous occasions). Its great for gobs of chili too.

Haven't used it for deep frying. Too much oil to fill it (i.e., haven't had the need yet).

Click Here to see more reviews about: Bayou Classic 7412 12-Quart Cast Iron Dutch Oven with Dutch Oven Lid and Perforated Aluminum Basket

Product Description:
With quality construction that sets the industry standard, Bayou Classic Cast Iron Cookware is made heavy duty, rough, and rugged.This traditional designed cast iron dutch oven is the perfect choice for hunting, fishing, camping, scouting, and your own backyard.Use the Dutch Oven for slow cooking stews, gumbo, and chili.Fry fish, chicken, hushpuppies, and fries.

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2/29/2012

Le Creuset Enameled Cast-Iron 9-1/2-Quart Oval French Ovens Review

Le Creuset Enameled Cast-Iron 9-1/2-Quart Oval French Ovens
Average Reviews:

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I love this it is indispensable for entertaining. I make huge batches of stew in this and freeze them in portions. It heats wonderfully. Like any of their stuff it takes a long while for it to heat up but when it does it keeps its heat.
Word of warning don't use metal spoons or it will scrape the bottom. The cleaner that you can buy for it is a must and it brings it up beautifully.
Also it is very heavy especially when full and it does require a bit of strength to move it from oven etc.

this size is great if you entertain a lot or make batches of things. I use this size the most and I have a few of different sizes.

I didn't pay this price, though its not a bad one, I go to an outlet store to the le creuset store, get one slightly imperfect then wait for a sale.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Le Creuset Enameled Cast-Iron 9-1/2-Quart Oval French Ovens

Product Description:
You'll get a lifetime of use from this 9-1/2--qt. Oval Dutch Oven. It's deal for browning and searing in, slow-cooking, re-heating and simmering foods. Risottos will come out perfectly cooked and soups and chowders stay warm for hours. Secure lid seals in all the moisture and flavor. Roomy enough to cook a meal for the whole family. Move it from stovetop to oven when you're ready. Cast iron enameled Dutch oven retains heat well and is beautiful enough to bring right to the table as you serve. Features sturdy, cast handles on sides so you can lift and carry with ease. Safe to use with metal utensils. About Le Creuset...Since 1925, artisans have been crafting Le Creuset cookware in the French village of Fresnoy Le Grand. Each piece of Le Creuset cast iron cookware is handcast, polished, double enamel-coated and then fired, resulting in some of the finest quality cookware available. Cast iron is one of the best materials for distributing heat gently and thoroughly and is ideal for induction ranges. The strong enamel coating will not absorb odors or flavors, and is easy to clean. Heavy lids securely seal in moisture and flavor. Le Creuset cookware comes in a variety of sizes, colors and styles to match any kitchen and cooking preference. So lasting, you'll pass it on to the next generation of promising cooks

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1/27/2012

Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron 5 Quart Oval French Ovens Review

Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron 5 Quart Oval French Ovens
Average Reviews:

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We were reluctant to spend the money on this french oven but it was worth every penny.It heats up evenly and browns meat beautifully.We use this 5qt. french oven to make great one pot meals (4 servings).Just last night we made braised short ribs that were mouthwatering.We often use this pan on the stove for browning or searing and then transfer the dish to the oven for further cooking.Other times we use it for slow cooking on the stove.Clean up with the pan is super easy.Everything just wipes right out.The pan is really heavy but that's what makes it cook so well.My wife used to hate to cook (I used to be the only cooking enthusiast in the family) but she loves this french oven because all her recipes come out tasting so good.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron 5 Quart Oval French Ovens

Product Description:
L2502-2967For generations, families have come to cherish this everyday Oval French Oven (or Dutch oven, referred by most people). Ideal for simmering, marinating, poaching, braising, and browning; this piece moves from the stove or oven to the table and can store leftovers in the refrigerator or freezer! The tight fitting lid creates a blanket of heat, sealing in flavor and moisture, and is equipped with a phenolic knob which is oven safe up to 375 F. The Le Creuset enameled cast iron pieces evenly spreads heat and retains heat longer than other cookware materials. Features: -Striking Cherry color. -Lid traps heat and seals in flavor and moisture. -Phenolic knob is oven safe to 375 F. -Works well on all heat sources, including induction and oven safe. -Refrigerator and freezer safe. -Lifetime limited warranty. Specifications: -Material: Enameled cast iron. -Capacity: 5-Quart. -Cleaning and Care: Dishwasher safe, but handwashing is recommended.

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1/07/2012

Lodge Pro-Logic Pre-Seasoned 7-Quart Dutch Oven Review

Lodge Pro-Logic Pre-Seasoned 7-Quart Dutch Oven
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I've owned several other Lodge products, both natural finish and preseasoned.When possible, I've usually been willing to spend and extra buck or two to get the preseasoned version of a cookware, because they've been worth it.The preseasoned cast iron cookware comes pitch black, like someone has cooked 200 pounds of bacon in it.However, something is amiss with this 7qt Dutch Oven - it didn't meet my expectation of what a Lodge preseason cookware usually is.

When I got this Dutch Oven from Amazon, I was a bit shocked to find the finish was dark gray, instead of the deep black of evry other Lodge preseasoned item I own.But there were patches near the handle and rim of deep black coating.It seemed like something went wrong during the preseasoning process and that the coating had almost completely peeled off, leaving tiny remnants.There were several small pits on the lid as well.And the inside of the pot felt rough, not smooth like my other Lodge pans.

Amazon did not want the pot back and were nice enough to give me a refund without return.So I called up Lodge to see what was up.They have an incredibly friendly customer assistance team.They even returned my calls and remembered my name when I called them back.Lodge sent me a replacement dutch oven without any hassle.

Unfortunately, the second Dutch Oven looked just like the first.Maybe it was from the same batch, but it just seems like Lodge isn't doing a good job of quality control with this particular item.There was also a half pound difference between the two pots; perhaps this is normal.In addition, the replacement pot had a broken handle.

Having gotten the pot for free, I decided to try it out.But first I washed the pot and seasoned it properly myself!I melted some Crisco, rubbed the entire pot and lid (inside and out) with a LIGHT coating, and placed it upside down in a 425 oven for 1.5 hours (put some foil on the bottom to catch the drips).I turned the oven off and let the pot cool in the oven (otherwise it can crack).Then I repeated the procedure twice.Now I finally had a nice deep black pot!Plus, the inside of the pot had actually become smooth as well!

Due to the enormous size of the pot (12" wide and 16 pounds), the walls seem thinner than the smaller size dutch ovens.So the pot doesn't seem to heat as evenly as Lodge's other products.But perhaps it has something to do with my burners not being large enough for this big pot.

Despite the faults, I actually do like this Dutch Oven.It has always browned meats well and is absolutely perfect for braising on the stovetop or the oven.There's almost no leakage of steam from the lid, so you don't have to worry about adding water during long sessions in the oven.The inside of the lid is different from Lodge's other lids:There are concentric raised rings, as opposed to the spikes on the other models.I like the rings better since it makes the lid easier to clean and season, but it might be less efficient at keeping the food moist.I wouldn't worry about it.I do like the more modern style of the Pro Logic series.

So, if you find this cheap enough (I got mine for thirty-seven bucks), get it and season it yourself.Don't bother paying a premium over the non-seasoned model.But there's also another line of preseasoned Lodge cookware that's not Pro Logic.I've seen that line's Dutch Oven at the stores and it seems to be properly seasoned.

Lodge is still a much better deal than other manufacturers, specially for Dutch Ovens.Ultimately, this is still a good product and will get the job done.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Lodge Pro-Logic Pre-Seasoned 7-Quart Dutch Oven

Product Description:
At 12 inches in diameter and 4-3/4 inches deep, this 7-quart pre-seasoned Dutch oven holds a heap of chili, chicken and rice, or fruit cobbler. And thanks to its heavy-duty cast-iron construction, it cooks beautifully, spreading heat quickly and evenly throughout the bottom and all the way up the sides. The unit's esteemed heat retention makes it exceptionally convenient when making one-dish meals. Start by browning meats or sauteing onions, then add liquid and other ingredients to finish on the stovetop or in the oven.
The Dutch oven hails from Lodge's Pro Logic line, which updates the classic Lodge look with contemporary rolled edges and graceful curved lines. Pro Logic items are also pre-seasoned through a proprietary "electrostatic" vegetable-oil spray system. The pre-seasoning process readies the oven for cooking right out of the box, making it far more convenient than old-style cast-iron items that required oil and oven seasoning before use. The timesaving process also generates a nonstick finish that helps preserve the cookware for generations. As with most cast-iron cookware, Lodge recommends washing by hand with a stiff brush and hot waterto protect the surface. Chefs will also appreciate the oven's self-basting cover that helps trap in heat, moisture, and nutrients, as well as its large cast-iron loop side handles that make it easy to lift and transport from the stovetop to the oven (up to 500 degrees F) and back out again. Made in USA, the seasoned Dutch oven carries a limited lifetime warranty.

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11/15/2011

Le Creuset Enameled Cast-Iron 7-1/4-Quart Round French Ovens Review

Le Creuset Enameled Cast-Iron 7-1/4-Quart Round French Ovens
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Just want to let you all know that the lid of this 4-1/2 quart pan also fits the 9-1/2" inch Tarte Tatin/Anniversary pan ...

In addition to buying this 4-1/2" round oven, I wanted to buy a small Buffet Casserole (the 2-quart size) to cook chicken & rice or pork chops when it's just my husband and myself, but I decided to buy the Tarte Tatin/"Anniversary" pan (same pan, two different names) instead for two reasons:

1) One less lid in the cupboard
2) I thought the shape of the anniversary pan's flat bottom would be a little bit more useful. I can make Tarte Tatin of course, but also regular cakes (come out delicious, just line this pan with parchment paper -- the cake comes out so perfect you may throw away your cake pans to make space for more Le Creuset cookware, lol), quiche, one pot breakfasts, etc.

Because the lid of this 4-1/2" oven fits on top of the anniversary pan, I can also use that anniversary pan to cook dishes with rice in them, poach chicken breasts, etc.

Of course, read all the other reviews about this 4-1/2 quart size pan. It's the perfect size pan to cook meals for 6 people.

FYI: If you are trying to decide what size to buy, just to let you know Le Creuset recommends that you choose a pan size where the contents of what you are trying to cook fills the pan at least 50%, if not three-quarters of the way full to the top, to make the most of the radiant heat qualities of cast iron (with this cast iron pan, the heat not only travels through the bottom of the pan, but also up the sides -- very different from your usual stainless steal or aluminum pan, which is why you use lower heat with these pans than with stainless steel pans).

If you use too large of a pan, your ingredients may dry out before they are cooked all the way through. Also, if you are cooking rice, if there is too much space at the top (if your pan is only 25 percent full), you may not get enough steam pressure to cook the rice all the way through.

If this is your first Le Creuset purchase, buy the size of pan you'll use most of the time, not the size you use when you cook for company. These pans are so addictive, you'll can always buy the bigger size later for specialty recipes.

This 4-1/2 quart is perfect for cooking for 3 to 6 people.

The 3-1/2 quart is perfect for 2 to 4 people.

The 2-1/2 quart is good for 1 or 2 people, or rice for 4 people.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Le Creuset Enameled Cast-Iron 7-1/4-Quart Round French Ovens

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Product Description:

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10/25/2011

Lodge Camp 12-Inch Dutch Oven Tote Bag Review

Lodge Camp 12 inch Dutch Oven Tote Bag
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This tote bag is made to carry and protect your beloved dutch oven.Why a tote bag you may ask? It not only protects your valuable $50 or antique dutch oven, but it keeps your other items clean if your oven has soot on the outside.These come in different sizes just like the ovens themselves. This particular one will fit a dutch oven up to 8 quarts or 12" in diameter which is the standard size used by scouts and other groups. It has a padded bottom to protect the legs, a heavy duty zipper closure, and carrying straps.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Lodge Camp 12 Inch Dutch Oven Tote Bag

Product Description:
Tote bag includes a padded bottom, heavy duty self healing zipper, polypropylene straps and is sewn together with heavy duty thread.This tough carrying bag fits both standard and deep size Dutch ovens up to 12 inch diameter

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10/18/2011

Emile Henry Flame Top 12-Inch Brazier Black Review

Emile Henry Flame Top 12 inch Brazier Black
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It's clear from the condition of the Brazier that was shipped to me that Emile Henry has sloppy quality control. The cooking surface had obviously defective glazing, with small pebbles creating sharp bumps that will break off when cooking to expose the clay underneath.

This is the kind of thing you need to buy from a shop where you can check the quality before you leave the store. Now Amazon is telling me that I won't be able to get a replacement for a month. Great.

The price at Amazon is not discounted at all, so just go to Williams Sonoma or Sur La Table or another local dealer if you want Emile Henry cookware.

The Brazier itself it lighter than Le Creuset, which is a big advantage. And clay retains heat for very even cooking. It's a good idea with bad quality control.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Emile Henry Flame Top 12 Inch Brazier Black

Product Description:
Emile Henry Flame Top cookware, a technological innovation. An innovation in ceramics technology, Emile Henry's new line of Burgundy Clay Flame-Top ceramics products work directly on a gas flame or an electric or halogen hob without a diffuser, without any fear of cracking or breaking.Much lighter, (30%), than many types of comparable metal cookware products, Flame-Top is microwave and dishwasher-safe, cleans up very easily, is extremely strong and durable, goes under the broiler, and can go directly from a freezer or a refrigerator to a hot oven to the table, where it will retain the cooking heat for a very long time. This recent innovation from Emile Henry is a break-through in ceramics technology. Unlike most metal cookware products, Flame-Top cookware can sit on a very hot open flame for an extended period of time without any ingredients in the cook pot, and they will not crack, discolor or break. Perfect for braising, browning and slow cooking due to the incredibly gentle heat distribution properties of Burgundy Clay, Flame-Top products cook evenly and thoroughly when used on top of the stove, in the oven or even in the microwave.Enhancing this gentle cooking action are raised dots on the underneath side of each lid that evenly distribute evaporated juices directly back into the cooking food.This self-basting technique produces a more thoroughly cooked, tender and moist dish than with traditional lids, which force liquids to run down the sides of the pot, and which contribute to uneven cooking. Emile Henry Flame-Top ceramic cookware is light and versatile, and better brings out the flavors of all cooked foods.

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10/04/2011

Staub Oval Roasting Dish, 11 Inch, Pimento Red Review

Staub Oval Roasting Dish, 11 Inch, Pimento Red
Average Reviews:

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This is a good roasting dish.It's 11 inches long and 8 inches wide.Good for side dishes for small entrees.Too small for main dishes.If you have any kind of enameled cast iron you know what to expect.If not: excellent for even cooking, great for cooktop-to-oven foods, and easier to cleanup than regular cast iron.Downside: can't handle rapid heating or cooling (the enamel will crack) and you should use silicon utensils with it to avoid scratching the enamel.I've put mine through the paces with no complaints and banged it a few times with no chipping.Staub and Le Creuset make the best enameled cast iron out there so while it cost a little more it will last a lot longer.

Price wise this goes on sale for about $40 now and then - so if you are on a budget watch for a sale.

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Product Description:
Prized by professional chefs and home cooks alike, Staub enameled cast iron roasting dishes go from stovetop to oven to table with ease. Exceptional heat distribution across the pan facilitates searing while its heat retention qualities and shallow sides ensure thorough roasting. Durable interior is easy-clean and smooth enamel base help prevents surface scratches. Made in France

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9/13/2011

Lodge Logic 5-Quart Double Dutch Oven and Casserole with Skillet Cover Review

Lodge Logic 5-Quart Double Dutch Oven and Casserole with Skillet Cover
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I have been cooking with Lodge cast iron for about 7 years and own 8 pieces from their inventory. The Double Dutch Oven is my favorite Lodge cookware due to its versatility.

When using a dutch oven, I usually sear the meat first to add flavor. Usually, this requires searing the meat in several batches. The best part about the Double Dutch is that you can sear the meat in the big pot and in the lid simultaneously, thus reducing the time needed to brown the meat by half. Since the lid is then used for the braising step (after deglazing), you're not increasing the number of items to be cleaned later.

I like the lid so much that I often use it by itself for pan frying. Due to the smallish size (about 10 inches in diameter) and the inherent properties of cast iron, the lid can get incredibly hot if you want it to. Perfect for cooking a steak (it puts on a better crust vs my 12" Lodge skillet). I've even used it as a pie pan in a pinch. When properly seasoned, the lid also works great for cooking eggs without them sticking.A seasoned cast iron pan is the original nonstick and will outlast any synthetic-coated nonstick pan in the market (and without the toxic fumes).

When used as a Dutch Oven, it works like it should. It retains heat well and cooks evenly. There is very little steam that escapes. The smaller 5qt capacity (vs a 7qt Dutch Oven, which I use less now that I've got this one) is also better for cooking moderate amounts of food. Generally, you want little empty space when using a Dutch oven.

In response to the reviewer who has problems getting the lid off, I suggest the following. When setting the lid on the pot, don't align the handles of the two. This will allow you to remove the lid easily, without having to worry about injuries. I've owned another Lodge 5qt Dutch Oven
with a more traditional handle - I don't miss that one at all...nor do I miss not having a standalone 10" skillet.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Lodge Logic 5-Quart Double Dutch Oven and Casserole with Skillet Cover

Product Description:
Lodge cast-iron cookware has long been admired for its superior heat retention and even heat distribution, but now the company adds another enticement with its Lodge Logic line. All Lodge Logic cookware, including this 5-quart Dutch oven, comes preseasoned via a proprietary "electrostatic" vegetable-oil spray system and is ready for cooking right out of the box--unlike traditional Lodge cookware, which needs seasoning in your home oven before use. During the timesaving pre-seasoning process, oil penetrates deeply into the cast-iron surface while a high-temperature gas oven seals it in, preserving the cookware for generations and creating an attractive heirloom finish.
The Dutch oven measures 10-1/4 inches in diameter and 4 inches deep--an ideal size for making a large batch of stew or outdoor casserole. The vessel is also suited for boiling water, making rice, or heating up soup, as its cast-iron material delivers a smooth, consistent temperature without wasting heat. The unit's esteemed heat retention particularly enhances slow-cooking recipes that call for tender meats and rich, seasoned flavors. For added versatility, the Dutch oven can be used without the lid as a casserole, and its 1-1/2-inch-deep domed lid doubles as a skillet--perfect for silver-dollar pancakes, eggs, and other breakfast fare. Sturdy, integrated side handles on the oven and its lid help ensure safe, secure transport. With proper care, Lodge Logic cast-iron cookware will last a lifetime. Lodge recommends hand washing the oven, which carries a lifetime warranty, with a stiff brush and hot water.

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9/12/2011

Magnalite Classic 5-Quart Dutch Oven with Rack Review

Magnalite Classic 5-Quart Dutch Oven with Rack
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Best Dutch over I've ever owned!Perfect for chili, spaghetti sauce, pot roast, and soups of any kind!If you put it in the dishwasher (I do), be sure to season the pan each time you use it for the first year, after that, it's "dishwasher safe."

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Product Description:
Magnalite Classic 5-Quart Dutch Oven With Rack. Includes 1-Each Magnalite Classic 5-Quart Dutch Oven With Rack.Magnalite cookware feature vessels and lids constructed from hand-poured cast aluminum.The vessels feature a thick base that won't warp.Heavy domed lids lock-in moisture, transfer heat from the vessel side wall, and help facilitate convection style heating.Features phenolic handles and lids which are oven safe to 350 degrees.Line has earned a loyal user base who appreciates its uniquely even heating.

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8/17/2011

KitchenAid 12-Inch Cast-Iron Chicken Fryer, Garnet Review

KitchenAid 12 inch Cast-Iron Chicken Fryer, Garnet
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Love the color, matches my kitchen, cooks evely and makes great homemade fried chicken.The only drawback is that this is a VERY HEAVY fryer.I am a man and find it heavy....a woman may find it difficult to reach up and take it off a high shelf.Best stored on a lower cabinet where you can easily lift it rather than high up where it will come crashing down on your head.

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Tall ribs in the bottom of this vessel perform double duty holding foods above the fat when grilling and allowing oil to circulate around foods when deep frying.The self-basting cover holds in spatter and moisture keeping the stove clean and foods tender.

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7/30/2011

Calphalon Unison Sear Nonstick 5-Quart Dutch Oven Set Review

Calphalon Unison Sear Nonstick 5-Quart Dutch Oven Set
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I've been using Calphalon cookware for about 20 years. Some of my pieces are pretty worn out and frankly, I was getting a bit tired of always having to wash them by hand.

I have Professional Nonstick, Commercial Nonstick, Copper Triply, Stainless Triply, One, etc. etc. etc. Overall my pots and pans have served me very well and have taken an enormous amount of abuse. I lived in Mexico for several years and they came with me then and back again. I used to cook for 10-12 people every day, so they got a lot of use.

I hadn't been too tempted to retire my old workhorses, especially since the newer Calphalon lines were far from great. I HATED the new 'commercial' nonstick that I bought a few months ago. The pans were lighter and flimsy.

I saw the ads for Unison and was intrigued. Not so thrilled with the prices, but Amazon's great for comparison shopping.

I got this little set on Kitchen Kapers for [...], a bargain indeed. And 100% dishwasher-safe? YES!!!

So....Sear and Slide, huh? One of the biggest drawbacks to nonstick cookware is the lack of 'stickiness' necessary to achieve a truly great sear on meats and other foods. Does this new Sear stuff work? Last night I made my favorite pot roast recipe in this cute little 5 quart Dutch Oven. It's just big enough to make a braise for 2-4, a 3 pound chuck roast fit in it just right.

Did it sear better than my other pots? Marginally. It did sear just fine, but so do my other dutch ovens. I refuse to put out a couple hundred dollars for LC and then have to hire someone to lift the thing off the stove for me. Does it create the classic 'fond' so loved by foodies? Nope. But then I've never really needed one to make fabulous food, either. It's a tossup.

This little oven worked just great on top of the stove and in the oven. The only drawback to the entire line that I can see so far is that the lids do not fit well at all, they slide around too easily, allowing steam to escape and cause a burn hazard, as well as the potential to burn a pot dry. I double sealed the lid with parchment when I used it, but still feel that my braise came out drier than usual.

I also have the 'covered omelet' (strange configuration) and its lid is just as loose. A bit disappointing, but overall, taking into consideration the new 'rougher' nonstick surface and the ability to wash it in the dishwasher, this line deserves a solid 4 1/2 stars, as long as you can get them for [...] or less.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Calphalon Unison Sear Nonstick 5-Quart Dutch Oven Set

Product Description:
A useful addition to any cookware collection, this 5-quart Dutch oven, which measures 16-1/2 by 15-1/2 by 11-1/2 inches, offers a spacious interior that easily accommodates a hearty batch of vegetarian stew, lentil soup, or Texas-style chili. Use it for cooking up the main course when hosting a dinner party or transport it to a potluck or picnic on a beautiful summer afternoon. Accessories include a black-and-white towel and a nylon stirring/serving spoon. The towel comes treated with an anti-microbial agent, which inhibits the growth of bacterial odors and helps prevent deterioration caused by mildew. The nylon spoon resists heat up to 400 degrees F and offers an easy-grip, stay-cool, soft-touch silicone handle with a hole at the end for convenient hanging storage. The set also makes a great gift idea for bridal showers or housewarming parties.
Constructed from heavy-gauge hard-anodized aluminum, the cookware heats quickly and evenly (no hot spots to worry about), plus it provides a specially textured Sear nonstick interior, which prevents food from sticking without the need for excess butter or oils. In addition to effortless food release, the Sear nonstick coating helps seal in flavor, offering restaurant-quality results for foods such as steak, pork chops, summer vegetables, and more. To protect the nonstick cooking surface, be sure to only use nylon, coated, or wooden utensils. Oven-safe up to 500 degrees F, the cookware supplies a domed, tempered-glass cover--complete with a stainless-steel rim and riveted handle--that helps retain heat, moisture, and nutrients, plus allows for checking on cooking food at a glance. The oven's stainless-steel side handles come riveted for strength and stay cool to the touch on the stovetop. When finished, the cookware cleans up easily by hand or in the dishwasher and carries a limited lifetime warranty.

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7/18/2011

Staub 5 Quart Oval Cocotte, Black Review

Staub 5 Quart Oval Cocotte, Black
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I own the predecessor of this Staub pot, the same model but with a domed lid. I received it as a gift a couple of years ago. I am a serious cook-- have taken some culinary classes and enjoy cooking immensely. This pot is quite simply the best roasting pot I have ever owned. It is a very heavy cast iron pot which has been double coated with enamel. The lid and pot fit together perfectly. The craftsmanship is excellent. There are dots protruding from the inside of the lid that essentially channel condensed moisture (steam) back down as liquid onto whatever you're cooking-- sort of creating your own little rainforest in the oven. (You can also use the pot without the lid if you prefer dry heat.)

The design of the lid ensures moist cooking, which tenderizes meats. Cooking a whole chicken (and this pot easily accommodates a very large roaster) with spices and vegetables results in fall-off-the-bone moist, flavorful meat. Cooking a roast of beef or pork? Ditto-- the meat is tender, and the spices are roasted in. Vegetables more your style? This baby makes perfect stews, either on a stovetop or baked.

Best of all, if you season your pot correctly before you use it (instructions are provided), cleanup is a breeze. Just fill the pot with warm soapy water for 15-30 minutes and then wash with a nonabrasive utensil (so as not to scratch the enamel). Even the worst baked on sauces come off easily. Love it.

One word of caution: cutting anything with a sharp knife in your pot may ruin the enamel coating. It's okay to slice into something to test it as long as the knife tip doesn't hit the bottom or sides of the pot. To me, this slight trade-off of convenience is well worth it, given how well the pot works.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Staub 5 Quart Oval Cocotte, Black

Product Description:
The Staub journey begins in Alsace, France.Rich in history, food, and craft, it is a region renowned for hearty one-pot recipes. Staub has been producing the best cast iron products for professional and aspiring cookssince 1974. Staub's French oven is a timeless standby for stews, roasts, soups, casseroles and other one-pot classics.Staub has perfected this tradition in our signature "La Cocotte" French Oven, the choice of some of the world's best chefs.La Cocotte moves beautifully from the stove to your table.

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6/26/2011

Kinetic Color Cast 2.6-Quart Round Roaster/Casserole with Self-Basting Lid Review

Kinetic Color Cast 2.6-Quart Round Roaster/Casserole with Self-Basting Lid
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Outer enamel looks like a topographic map - peaks, valleys, drips and a couple of pinholes for good measure.Wouldn't even qualify as a le creuset second.There are reasons why Chinese-made cast iron pots are so cheap - and quality control is evidently one of them.

I needed this small size for very occasional use only; otherwise I'd have coughed up the money for the good stuff - or at least waited for a sale. We'll see now how long the interior enamel lasts.It's not as sloppily finished as the exterior.This line appears to have nice designs and design-wise this pot is nice; too bad about the exterior finishing.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Kinetic Color Cast 2.6-Quart Round Roaster/Casserole with Self-Basting Lid

Product Description:
This round roaster/casserole with self basting lid is a 2-IN-1 as in TWO PRODUCTS for the price of one set! The roaster /casserole has a nice 2.6quart capacity and the lid is indented in the center and has special bumps to ensure perfect self basting every time. The round roaster/casserole has a beautiful red porcelain enamel exterior and creamy porcelain enamel interior body and lid. The cast iron absorbs heat evenly and spreads it gently while cooking. Best of all the porcelain enamel interior and porcelain enamel exterior allows for fast and easy clean up. These two pieces work with all heat sources: gas, electric, induction and ceramic top ranges

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5/10/2011

Lodge Color Enamel 4-1/4-Quart Roaster, Cafe Brown Review

Lodge Color Enamel 4-1/4-Quart Roaster, Cafe Brown
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This is an excellent open roaster. It is very sturdy and cleans up well.
Bewarned though - it is extremely heavy - but that's cast iron for you:)

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Product Description:
This 4.25 Quart color enamel roaster is great for roasting meats as well as vegetables. Lodge color porcelain enamel on cast iron cookware is cast from molten iron in individual sand molds.The porcelain surface eliminates the need to season cast iron. The cast iron vessel has superior heat distribution and retention, evenly heating bottom, sidewalls, and even the lid.Two layers of very hard, glossy porcelain enamel are chip resistant and easy to clean.Hygienic porcelain enamel is non-reactive with food.Knob is oven safe to 400 degrees.Tightly fitting lid seals in moisture and the excellent heat retention reduces the amount of energy needed for cooking.Handwashing with warm soapy water is recommended to preserve the cookware's original appearance.17 x 10 5/16 x 2 1/4Cafe

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4/09/2011

IInnova Color Cast Porcelain-Enameled Cast-Iron 7-Quart Oval Roaster, Red Review

IInnova Color Cast Porcelain-Enameled Cast-Iron 7-Quart Oval Roaster, Red
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I bought this over a year ago and have made so many wonderful meals in this roaster! I love it. Take care of it, hand wash and it will last forever. Why pay more for the other brand? A keeper!

Click Here to see more reviews about: IInnova Color Cast Porcelain-Enameled Cast-Iron 7-Quart Oval Roaster, Red

Product Description:

    7-Quart Porcelain Enameled Cast Iron Oven Roaster with Lid
    Finish: Red
    Material: Porcelain enamel cast iron
    Cast Iron absorbs heat evenly and spreads it gently while cooking
    Work well on the stove, over a low flame or in the oven.
    Easy to clean interior and exterior
    Dishwasher-safe
    Item offers 25 years limited warranty.


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