My new best friends, Khara and Jamie at Cookware.com, were kind enough to write up a little info about Dutch Ovens. You know I cook with mine all the time and I've only had it for a few years and I seriously wonder how I EVER cooked without it! I hope you enjoy this bit of schooling - and if you need a new Dutch Oven then get yourself over to Cookware.com right now - well, after you read what Jamie has to say - because they are offering free shipping on orders over $69.00!!
Dutch Oven 101
Since its original inception back in 17th century
While many might associate a Dutch oven with one of those Colonial American museum displays or TV Westerns, a Dutch oven is very much relevant today. While many foodies might prefer the ease of one those stainless steel cookware sets, cast iron has many advantages.
Healthy Cooking
Cooking with cast iron has been shown to contribute to a healthy lifestyle. A well-seasoned cast iron Dutch oven is virtually stick-free, requiring less or no oil, which is good for a healthy heart. Additionally, by cooking with cast iron, you get more iron in your diet as trace amounts of iron are absorbed into the foods you cook. According to the World Health Organization, iron deficiency is the most prevalent nutritional disorder in the world, so wherever you can get that extra boost of iron you should take advantage.
Long Lasting
A high quality, well maintained cast iron Dutch oven will last you for a lifetime. When caring for your Dutch oven, make sure that you follow proper cleaning instructions. You want to let it cool before washing and never pour cold water while the oven is still hot, as this will crack the cast iron. You also want to avoid using soap, as this breaks down Dutch oven's naturally non-stick surface. Once the oven has cooled, put in some water and let it boil off. Scrape down the sides and empty out the dirty water. Put more water in and boil for a second time. Once it’s empty, rub in some oil at the bottom of the oven with a paper towel. This will help maintain your cast iron's seasoning.
Energy Efficient
Another advantage of cooking with a cast iron Dutch oven is how energy efficient cast iron can be. Cooking with cast iron uses less heat than other materials, as cast iron absorbs and retains heat very efficiently. This helps you cook your food much more evenly than you might be able to with a standard casserole or baking dish.
In comparing the job my Dutch oven does versus a casserole or baking dish, the flavors just always come out better in the Dutch oven. The tightly-fitting lid seals the juices and flavors in, producing a moist, flavorful better tasting meal. Don't let those images from the past scare you away from using a Dutch oven for your next meal. After just one meal, you'll be able to see the benefits and advantages that a cast iron Dutch oven has to offer.
Thanks Khara and Jamie - I couldn't have said it better myself! Oh one more thing...Dutch Ovens come in all sizes and in all prices - the one above on the right is only $40.00!! Get yourself a Dutch Oven - you'll thank me!
