cook’s illustrated dutch oven review results

Introduction

As a home cook, I know that having the right equipment can make a huge difference in the outcome of a dish. That’s why I invested in a Dutch oven, a versatile and essential tool in any kitchen. For those who are not familiar with Dutch ovens, they are typically made of cast iron, have a tight-fitting lid, and are used for a variety of cooking methods such as braising, stewing, and baking. But with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That’s where Cook’s Illustrated comes in. This trusted source for kitchen equipment reviews put several Dutch ovens to the test, and I’m here to share their results.

Cook’s Illustrated Dutch Oven Review Results

Cook’s Illustrated tested several Dutch ovens, evaluating them based on their heating ability, durability, and ease of use. The top three Dutch ovens reviewed were the Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven, the Lodge Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven, and the Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Enameled Cast Iron Casserole.

Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven

The Le Creuset Dutch oven is known for its expensive price tag. However, Cook’s Illustrated found that it was worth the investment. It performed the best in all categories, with excellent heat retention, even cooking, and a durable enamel coating that is resistant to chipping and scratching. The lid fits tightly, ensuring that moisture stays inside, and the large handles make it easy to maneuver in and out of the oven. The downside is, of course, the price. This Dutch oven can cost upwards of $300.

Lodge Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven

The Lodge Dutch oven is a more affordable option that still performs well. Cook’s Illustrated found that it heats evenly and retains heat well, but the enamel coating is not as durable as other options, and the handles can get very hot. On the plus side, it costs much less than the Le Creuset, and it still has a tight-fitting lid and large handles.

Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Enameled Cast Iron Casserole

The Cuisinart Dutch oven is another budget-friendly option with decent performance. It heats evenly, but not quite as well as the other two options. The enamel coating is also not as durable, and the handles are smaller and less sturdy. However, it is still a good choice for those who want a Dutch oven without breaking the bank.

Cook’s Illustrated Recommendations

Based on the review results, Cook’s Illustrated suggests that readers should choose a Dutch oven based on their budget and cooking needs. If money is no object and top-notch performance is a must, then the Le Creuset Dutch oven is the best choice. However, for those who want to save some money, the Lodge or Cuisinart options are still good choices.

Cook’s Illustrated also suggests that readers take proper care of their Dutch oven to ensure longevity. Don’t use metal utensils or abrasive cleaners on the enamel coating, and always store the Dutch oven with the lid off to prevent moisture buildup.

For those who can’t justify the cost of a Dutch oven but still want similar performance, Cook’s Illustrated recommends using a heavy-bottomed pot with a tight-fitting lid, such as a stainless steel or aluminum stockpot.

Conclusion

Investing in a quality Dutch oven is worth it for any home cook who wants to take their cooking to the next level. While the Le Creuset Dutch oven may be the best overall, there are more affordable options that still perform well. Cook’s Illustrated is a valuable resource for anyone looking for kitchen equipment reviews and recommendations, and I encourage readers to check them out for more information.

Our Testing of Dutch Ovens

People also ask

What is Cook’s Illustrated Dutch Oven Review Result?

Cook’s Illustrated Dutch Oven Review Result is a comprehensive review of various Dutch ovens available in the market, conducted by Cook’s Illustrated team. The review includes the analysis of the design, performance, durability, and other factors that determine the quality of a Dutch oven.

How many Dutch ovens were reviewed?

Cook’s Illustrated team reviewed 12 Dutch ovens from different brands to determine their quality and performance.

What were the criteria for evaluating the Dutch ovens?

The Dutch ovens were evaluated based on their design, performance, durability, and ease of use. Cook’s Illustrated team also tested each Dutch oven for its heat retention, evenness of heating, and stew-making ability.

Which Dutch oven got the top rating?

The Dutch oven that got the top rating in Cook’s Illustrated review is the Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast-Iron Dutch Oven. It received a rating of 98 out of 100, making it the highest-rated Dutch oven in the review.

What are the other top-rated Dutch ovens?

Other top-rated Dutch ovens include the Staub 5.5-Quart Round Cocotte, the Lodge Color 6-Quart Enameled Cast-Iron Dutch Oven, and the Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Enameled Cast Iron 7-Quart Round Covered Casserole.

What are the pros and cons of the top-rated Dutch oven?

The Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast-Iron Dutch Oven has excellent heat retention, even heating, and durability. However, it is also the most expensive Dutch oven among the ones reviewed.

Where can I read the full review of Cook’s Illustrated Dutch Oven?

You can read the full review of Cook’s Illustrated Dutch Oven in the Cook’s Illustrated magazine or on their official website.