Enamel cast iron Dutch ovens are my favorite when it comes to cooking dishes on stovetop and in the oven. They are perfect for braising, browning and baking, and they retain heat very well. I have a few different sizes and use them all the time – they really are a kitchen essential!
However, when I use them, I’m still worried that I might do something that might damaged my cookware. So, with few tips from my grandma and some research, I learned the things I should know about cooking with enamel cast iron Dutch oven.
If you’re like me, you might get a little anxious when using new cookware. It’s natural to feel quirks about something that’s unfamiliar. However, don’t worry! With these tips, cooking with your Dutch oven will be a comfortable experience.
What is Enamel Cast Iron Dutch Oven
The enamel cast iron Dutch oven is a type of pot that is made from cast iron and has a coating of enamel on the inside and outside. It is a heavy pot that can be used for cooking many different types of food, such as stews, casseroles, roasts, and more. The enamel finish on the pot makes it easy to clean and prevents the food from sticking. This is a great feature because it means that you won’t have to spend as much time scrubbing the pot clean, and your food will be less likely to get stuck and burnt on.
Enameled Cast iron Dutch Oven are Versatile
When I got my cast iron Dutch oven for the first time, my first question is if I can use it in an oven or any other heat sources. Based on what I’ve learned from my grandma, who’s a great cook, by the way, she said that Dutch ovens are definitely okay to use in the oven. In fact, we can use it on all source of heat either on stovetop, in the oven, grill or even on wood powered stoves. Dutch ovens are amazing because they are able to go from one source of heat to another without any issue. This means that we can start cooking our meal on the stovetop and then finish it off in the oven if we need to.
However, one tip I got from my Nana when cooking with Dutch oven is to avoid high temperatures. Dutch ovens are designed to cook food slowly over low temperatures, so if you try to cook food too quickly, it’s likely that it will either not be cooked all the way through or it will be overcooked and dry.
Preheating Dutch Oven are Fine
When I started cooking with my Dutch oven cookware, I usually don’t preheat it since I’m a bit worried that it might not be good for the cookware. But, I learned that preheating enameled cast iron Dutch oven are totally fine as long as I don’t preheat it on high temperature. I find that it works best if I just slowly heat it up and lower the fire or temperature. That way, I can control how quickly it heats up and avoid any potential burnt spots.
Cast Iron Dutch Oven Retains Heat
As I continued using cast iron Dutch oven to cook, I figured out that it has plenty of advantages. One benefit of cooking with cast iron dutch oven is the fact that it’s extremely sturdy and can retain heat really well. This means that your food will stay hotter for a longer period of time, allowing you to enjoy your meal at its ideal temperature.
Using Oil When Cooking with Dutch Oven is Necessary
My grandma mentioned once when I was asking her about cast irons that these cookware can offer non-stick properties if it’s properly seasoned. Seasoning dutch oven requires using oil when cooking with it. This will help to create a smooth surface on the cookware that is less likely to stick. If you use dutch oven without using oil, the food might stick to it and can get burned. To prevent this from happening, make sure to use oil when cooking with a dutch oven. This will help create a barrier between the food and the pot so that the food doesn’t stick and gets evenly cooked.
It’s Best for Marinating
Another great thing about enamel cast iron dutch ovens is that their vitreous surface makes them safe for marinating raw food. They are also durable enough to withstand marinating in acids or wine. This makes them a great option for those who want to prepare their meals in advance. It also means that you don’t have to worry about the dish being ruined if you accidentally leave it in the marinade for too long.
You can Sear right in the Dutch Oven
I was surprised to learn that with the solid and durable materials of a cast iron Dutch oven, it’s possible to sear the dish right in the pot. This method results in a much tastier meal, and I’m glad I took the time to learn about it. I was also able to create a well-seared dish that was also cooked evenly throughout.
Enamel Cast Iron Dutch Oven are Easier to Clean
When I first got my dutch oven, I was convinced that I would only use it for special occasions because I thought it would be difficult to clean. However, I found that the enamel coating made it much easier to clean than I had anticipated. I now use it regularly and find that it is one of my favorite pots to cook with. Although the coating will eventually overtime, it’s still great to have this kind of cookware.
Dutch Oven can go to the Fridge
If you’re wondering if you can use your Dutch oven to store food in the fridge, the answer is yes. I once put my Dutch oven in the fridge to prepare for making desserts and pasta salads, and it’s a great choice. Dutch ovens are perfect for storing food because they keep everything fresh and cooled evenly. My Nana always reminds me of the importance of cooling cookware before storing it in the fridge. She says that if I just cooked in the pot or pan, I need to let it cool down to room temperature first. Otherwise, the sudden change in temperature could cause the cookware to crack or break.
