9 Reasons Why You Need a Dutch Oven in Your Kitchen

Let’s talk about the unsung hero of the kitchen – the Dutch oven! This is my absolute favorite and number one kitchen tool. Honestly, I regret not buying it sooner. What was I waiting for? Let me tell you what a Dutch oven is and why this item is a must-have in your kitchen arsenal.

What is a Dutch Oven

Dutch oven, is originally called a braadpan in Netherlands or translated as roasting pan. It is a heavy-duty pot usually made of cast iron, with a tight-fitting lid. Nowadays, it often comes enameled in various lovely colours. It withstands high temperatures and distributes heat evenly, making it ideal for a wide range of cooking methods, including baking, roasting, frying, simmering even used in the open fire while camping.

Why You Should Have a Dutch Oven

1. One-Pot Meals

There is nothing easier than dumping all the good stuff inside one pot, adding a bit of oil, popping on the lid, and forgetting about it. Seriously, the Dutch Oven does wonders here! And the best thing about it is that you save so much time. Great for busy folks with busy lifestyles. Plus, fewer dishes to wash later, so that’s another win.

2. Heat Distribution

Since the base of the Dutch Oven is cast iron, a material that helps with even heat distribution, it allows the food to cook more consistently, preventing hot spots or uneven cooking. As a result, your meals come out perfectly cooked every time! The cast iron also retains heat well, keeping your food warm longer after cooking. Just put the lid back on, and the food will stay at the perfect temperature for a bit longer – no need to hurry.

3. Time-Saver

We are all juggling a million things: work, kids, errands, and everything in between. Who wants to babysit dinner? Definitely, not me! With the Dutch oven, whatever you cook takes less time. Less time for cooking – more time for us, right? Check – another win!

4. Versatility

You can literally cook everything you want: a sourdough bread can be baked to perfection in the morning, then you can sear your meat and veggies on the stove for dinner, and then slow-roast them in the oven. If you want to take one step further, you can deglaze the surface later and make a delicious gravy/sauce. From cooking casseroles, pasta dishes, baking to desserts. The possibilities are endless! I love my Dutch oven so much!

5. Built to Last

The Dutch Oven is made from cast iron, which makes them super durable and built to last for generations. In fact, the manufacturer’s guide even says that the older it looks, the better it gets! I’ve seen this myself with my orange one. It might look worn and a little rough to some, but to me, it’s perfect! There is so much history and memories behind us – and all good ones.

6. Colorful Perfection

Are you a kitchen fashionista? These Dutch ovens come in all the beautiful colours of the rainbow: from a bright orange (like my adored 4-quart one), bubble-gum pink, to stunning turquoise, like my latest one. The brighter the colour it is – the more obsessed I am with it!

7. Easy Cleanup

If there’s something I dislike, it’s washing dishes, pots, and pans. All that scrubbing, ugh! The Dutch oven helps cut down on pots and pans, meaning fewer dishes to wash. Many are dishwasher safe, too. Seriously, I couldn’t believe how easy it could be. However, I highly recommend getting an enamelled one, as it is more user friendly and easier to clean. Regardless of which type you choose always, make sure you read carefully the manufacturer’s instructions for use, to ensure you do not damage it.

Over time, the appearance of the enamel may age or show some wear, but this doesn’t compromise its performance. In fact, the seasoned cookware often improves the flavours and gives better results. Make sure you take good care of it – clean it gently and avoid using abrasive tools or strong cleaning solutions. Be gentle!

8. Diversity of Sizes

They come in various shapes and sizes to fit your kitchen needs. For small families, simply choose a 4-quart size. Or you can go with a larger one, 7-quart for bulk cooking! Also, make sure you have at least two – one deeper for your stews and soups and one shallow for everything else.

9. Taste

And let’s not forget, the taste of meals cooked in a Dutch oven is absolutely out of this world. The flavours meld together perfectly, making every dish a masterpiece.

So, if you’re looking for the greatest kitchen tools ever that saves time, makes cooking easier, and looks stunning doing it, the Dutch oven is your new best friend. My life in the kitchen totally changed since I got my orange 4-quart companion. From baking bread to slow-cooking stews, this pot has got your back. I don’t even think it is possible for me to bake my sourdough bread without it! So, what are you waiting for? Check out a few of the selections I recommend as my top 3 picks for you.

My Top 5 Dutch Oven recommendations for you

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I’ve had the pleasure of trying out a few different Dutch oven brands, and I’ve compiled a list of my top 5 Dutch Oven brands to help make your choice easier. These are solid picks based on quality and practicality… and the colours they offer. I know, I know…that is a bit factor for me:

Le Creuset

Pure classic. It is an investment, I know, but it will last you a lifetime (or two). The vibrant colour they offer are incredible and so cute! From bold red, calm blue, and sunny bright happy yellow. Cooking feels extra special when your pot is this pretty. I won’t talk about the quality and tech part much, as they are simply described – incredibly good!

Lodge Enameled Cast Iron

Lodge are the budget-friendly ones and widely available almost everywhere. It is perfect for slow-cooking without breaking the bank. The colours are simple but lovely, from neutrals and a few bold choices to brighten your kitchen. I love how they offer so many different size variations! From small saucepan size to large casserole-like family size ones.

Staub

A stylish cousin of the Le Creuset. It is a bit heavier and with a self-basting lid for juicy roasts and even better gravies. The colour palette is so sophisticated: from forest green and deep plum purple.

Cuisinart Cast Iron

And this is something affordable, but reliable. It’s not as fancy, but it gets the job done very well. The colours are straightforward, but classic. From red, blue, and white – great for an everyday kitchen.

Lagostina Cast Iron

And this was my first buy, and I truly love it! It is so durable, classic, with neutral colour choices. In general, it is an incredibly good buy. It is affordable compared to others, so if getting one seems a bit too large of an investment, try this one or the Lodge one.

And that’s it! Or… probably not. Let’s be honest, I could talk about Dutch ovens all day, as they’re just that amazing. I truly believe everyone should have at least one in their kitchen, so stay tuned for more tips, recipes, and chatter about this best friend of mine. Until next time!