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Best Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven
The Best Enameled Cast Iron Cookware can be something that is very subjective. Colors, Price, Enamel Durability, Weight, Brand and Shape are all factors that can be used to judge what is the best enameled cast iron cookware. We will be looking at all these factors across different brand. With this information in hand, hopefully, you can make your own judgement on what is the best.
Le Creuset Dutch Oven
Le Creuset Dutch Oven Quick Summary
Categories
Le Creuset 7qt Dutch Oven
Performance
Good
Colors
They have the widest selection of colors for their Enameled Cookware, ranging from pink to palm green. What they are known for is their signature flame color. Most of these colors are usually vibrant and pastel in hue. I personally believe they have one of the best line up of all the manufacturer today.
Oven Safe Temperature
500 Degree Fahrenheit
Brand Awareness
America
Country of Manufacturer
France
Shape
Depending on the model, the handles are generous in size and there is ample amount of cooking surface on the bottom. Most other manufacturer follow the design that was set by Le Creuset with slight variation.
Price
Given the fact that they are one of the most well known cookware manufacturer, they are also one of the most expensive. The price range as for this article goes from 100-300 dollar. To check the most recent price, click Here.
Enamel Durability
Le Creuset has one of the most durable enamel coating compared to other manufacturer. That is not to say that it doesn’t chip but it seems to have a reduced amount reports.
Thoughts
One of the best known cookware manufacturer in the world. They are a french based cast iron manufacturer that has been making cookware since 1925. Most if not all of the cast iron cookware are covered in enamel. However, they also carry other type of cookware such as stoneware that are not made in France, but rather Thailand or China. Regardless, they are seen as one of the best in the world.
While Le Creuset colors are more bright and vibrant, I would say that Staub is more dark and deep in hue. The colors that they represent are most similar to what you get in automotive paint. I personally think that these colors are the best type.
Shape
Much like Le Creuset, it is more wide than tall. This gives the dutch oven room ample room to sear food. This reduces cooking time and prevents food from steaming. It is a little heavier than Le Creust with a slightly smaller capacity.
Price
The prices are comparable to that of Le Creuset. It is not cheap but you cant beat the fit and finish. During Black Friday, you might be able to get the 4qt model for 100.
Enamel Durability
They have one of the better reputation for Enamel Durability. That is not to say they it does not have any chip. My personal dutch oven definitely have some paint chip missing..
Thoughts
Some regard Staub as one of the best enameled cast iron manufacturer in the world. In France, it is almost as common as Le Creuset. They do not have the long history that Le Creuset have but they do have their own stunning range of colors. Which in my personal opinion is better. Their dutch oven lids have the special spikes called chistera. Which automatically baste food when you are cooking.
Their colors are limited, they do not provide the range that Le Creuset or Staub has. They do not the classic red, blue and black so for the masses, what they offer are perfect. For cooks who like some individuality, you might want to go with Le Creuset or Staub..
Shape
Lodge Dutch Oven is one of the widest of the bunch. This means you have more room to sear food. However, liquid will also evaporate quicker. This might be a good or bad thing depending on your situation. The inside has a gentle curve to allow for easy whisking and stirring.
Price
One of the most competitively priced dutch oven on the market. They literally cost a fraction of what Le Creuset and Staub charges. Performance wise, you will see any difference.
Enamel Durability
While not as durable as Le Creuset or Staub, they are still pretty decent. If you manage to avoid hitting it. It should last a good long time.
Thoughts
Lodge is one of America’s oldest cast iron manufacturer. Since 1896, they have been manufacturing cast iron cookware for the mass. They certainly have the experience that newer company lacks. However, their primary cookware utensils focuses on bare cast iron. For whatever reason, their enamel cast iron cookware is manufactured in China. They perform well and is relatively affordable than other manufacturer. They offer the best value of any cast iron manufacturer.
A little bit more limited. But they do have all the basic color that most people want.
Shape
Their Dutch Oven is more tall than wide. This makes stirring a little more difficult. It also results in longer cooking time. If you try to sear everything in one batch, food will steam. This design is not as good as their competitor.
Price
One of the best bargain dutch oven on the market. If you need a cheap dutch oven, this is the way to go.
Enamel Durability
Their enamel coating is prone to chipping. If you are looking for something that will last a lifetime, I recommend the other alternative.
Thoughts
Tramontina is one of the largest cookware manufacturer around. Their products are priced competitively and they are of good quality. While they do not have the same flair or other brands, they work just fine as a cookware.
Limited Range of colors but they have the basic color most people want.
Shape
Wide dutch oven that helps in searing. Handle are generous and large making it easier to transport. Overall good design and you cant go wrong. It is designed very much like Le Creuset.
Price
One of the best bargain dutch oven on the market. Priced to be competitive and in reach for the average consumer.
Enamel Durability
Their enamel coating is prone to chipping. This can be said for all dutch oven that is made in China. For superior durability, go french.
Thoughts
Overall good design. They are shaped like Le Creuset so you should get similar performance. What is odd is the oven safe temperature. Supposedly it is 350 degree fahrenheit, much lower than their competitor. Other reports suggest its at 500. If it is truly 350, I recommend other brands than this one.
This is my personal list of some of the Best Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven on the market. While in no particular order, you should buy one that suits your need. Me personally, my favorite one is the one by Staub. The color is simply stunning and like no other. Get one that fits your style, they should all perform about the same.
I hope you found this Best Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven Article to be informative, If you would like to see more, please visit our Pots and Pans Review page.