Le Creuset L2501-28-67 Enameled Cast-Iron 7-1/4-Quart Round French Oven, Cherry Red

Comment: When I retired from thirty-six years of teaching last month, I received a generous Amazon Gift Card. I used it to purchase this perfect cooking vessel; something I could never justify spending the money on before. What a joy the Le Creuset 4 1/2 quart round French Oven is to use. It cleans up beautifully and simply. Every recipe I have prepared in it has come out perfectly. Just remember to use very low heat when simmering stews, sauces, and soups for long periods of time. "Mi olla"(my pot)is a special gift to myself and joy to have!

Comment: I got a set of these from a cooking class and now use the bigger ones for making huge pots of homemade jam. My range is glass top, but no problems using these. I like the stability the mass of these pots naturally have, especially when frantically ladling out the last jars the pot stays put.

They are superb for pot roasts, and hold heat well thanks to all the cast iron. And unlike my other (non-enameled) iron, these don't need seasoning. You can also cook foods without imparting their odor / taste to the pot.

Recently, I have been reading a camping cookbook and several recipes call for a 'Dutch Oven'. I had no idea these covered pots were AKA Dutch Ovens. Apparently, one would prefer a non-enameled pot for an open fire or one of aluminum for backpacking, but having this pot allows for practice at home. I never thought of baking in a pot before, but that's what those books say to do. Pizza on the trail, courtesy the Dutch oven.

I have had mine for some time, and still learning how to use them : )

Comment: Enameled cast iron is unsurpassed for low, slow cooking both in the oven and on the cook top. Cast iron retains heat better than any other type of pan. The advantage of enameled cast iron is that it's relatively non-stick and doesn't react with acidic ingredients like tomatoes. Yes, this Le Creuset dutch oven is heavy (though not as heavy as some other brands). And yes it needs proper care. Use only wood or plastic silicon implements. Always cool it down completely before rinsing. We use a very mild liquid dish detergent. Never, ever use anything abrasive. It may sound complicated but isn't. Take care of your Le Creuset and you should have a wonderful pan that lasts indefinitely. I read in a review of another Le Creuset product that the pans need seasoning. Not true!! Unlined cast iron pans need seasoning and sometimes re-seasoning. Enameled cast iron could be destroyed by seasoning.

Comment: Very happy with Le Creuset casr iron French oven. Versatile, cooks evenly, no need to constantly watch pot. Browns items well without burning. Can go from stove to oven to serving to fridge. Very satisfied with purchase. Highly recommend.

Comment: The main thing I have to add about this beautiful piece is that it changes not just the outcomes of your cooking, but the actual cooking expeience. I've made soup, risotto, and veggies in the week I've had it, and it is a true pleasure to use. So much so, that I went and bought a 3 1/2 quart and a skillet (which was used to cook amazing seared tuna).