8 best cast iron braisers

Product description

A flawless pairing of form and function, the Lodge Enameled Casserole is a classic way to both prepare and serve memorable meals. The 3.6 quart capacity and low, wide shape is perfect for baked favorites, roasted meats, or even paella. Great for cooking, marinating, refrigeration and freezing. The color porcelain enamel on cast iron can be used on gas, electric, ceramic and induction cooktops, as well as in the oven. Not recommended for use on outdoor grills or over open outdoor flames. Not for use in microwaves. Lodge Color Porcelain Enamel on Cast Iron cookware is cast from molten iron in individual sand molds. The porcelain surface eliminates the need to season cast iron. Use vegetable oil or cooking spray for better cooking and easier cleaning. The cast iron vessel has superior heat distribution and retention, evenly heating bottom sidewalls and even the lid. Tightly fitting lid seals in moisture. The excellent heat retention reduces the amount of energy needed for cooking. Two layers of very hard, glossy porcelain enamel are chip resistant and easy to clean. Use wooden, silicon or nylon utensils. Metal can scratch the porcelain. Lid knob is oven safe to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. The black rim on the pot is matte porcelain, not exposed cast iron. Hygienic porcelain enamel is non-reactive with food. Although dishwasher safe, hand washing with warm soapy water is recommended to preserve the cookware's original appearance. 11 3/4" diameter, 2 1/8" deep. Complete item measures 14.4" x 12.55" x 3.4".

• Broil, braise, bake or roast up to 500 degrees F. Saute, simmer or fry on any stovetop, including induction.
• Cast iron is unparalleled in heat retention and even heating. The smooth glass surface won't react to ingredients, plus eliminates the need to season.
• Lodge Enamel Casserole Dish is the perfect tool to marinate, refrigerate, cook and serve.
• Rims are black matte enamel, cooking surface is off-white. Stainless steel knob.
• Workhorses in the kitchen and show pieces on the dinner table, our enameled iron will become your go-to cookware.
• Dishwasher safe but hand washing recommended to preserve cookware's original appearance.
• Measures approximately 14.4" x 12.55" x 3.4", and is 11.75" diameter, 2.13" deep.

User questions & answers

Question:	Why is the red so much more than the blue
Answer:	My best guess is that it comes down to popularity. Red glazes also "pop" more that many other colors, making a smooth finish potentially slightly more difficult to achieve.
Question:	are enamel pots and their lid oven proof and what is max temperature
Answer:	They are oven proof. Not sure about max temp but I have put them in a 450 degree oven without any problems.
Question:	is weight really 16lbs as stated in product details
Answer:	LoL.....it's not quite 16 lbs. however it is heavy. I appreciate the weight of the cast iron and the quality of the product. I own all their (Lodge) enameled cast iron pieces and it's admired by even my mom who owns the other very expensive enameled cast iron.
Question:	Where is it made USA or China
Answer:	Just received (5/20/2020) the Lodge 3.6 qt. Casserole made in China.

Product features

Lodge 3.6 Quart Enameled Cast Iron Casserole Dish with Lid

Prepare your next casserole or savory souffle in this stunning 3.6 Quart Enameled Dutch Oven. Its flawless design allows you to prepare and serve memorable meals from the same dish. This vibrant Dutch oven has black matte enamel rims, its cooking surface is beige enamel, and the smooth glass surface won't react to ingredients. Use it to broil, braise, bake, or roast in the oven up to 500° F, and saute, simmer, or fry on any stovetop, as well as to marinate and refrigerate food.

Product description

Le Creuset Signature Cast Iron Shallow Casserole, 26 cm - Cerise.Heat Source :Ceramic Hob, Electric Hob, Gas Hob, Grill, Oven safe, Induction hob

• Colorful exterior enamel is shock-resistant to prevent chipping and cracking
• Sand-colored interior enamel has a smooth finish that promotes caramelization, prevents sticking and resists stains
• Dome-shaped lid locks in flavor by promoting continuous circulation of heat and moisture
• Wide loop handles provide a safe and comfortable grip
• No seasoning required

User questions & answers

Question:	What country is this made in
Answer:	I am answering directly for Cast Iron products from Le Creuset. The Foundry for those products is in France. So they are all manufactured in France. Other products are made in other locations such as Portugal. This is described in the LeCreuset entry in Wikipedia. Its interesting that they do this because there are some differences between the North American and European product distributions. (Mostly related to capacities). For example I have a small casserole I ordered from Hammacher Schlemmerer decades ago (made in France) which seems to not have a European equivalent. So when I bought its replacement in Europe (where I live) the new item is larger
Question:	What is the most popular color sold
Answer:	I would think traditionally red - but I have different pieces in different colors, but I also have fiestaware dishes, so I mix and match colors in my kitchen- I am not locked into one color.
Question:	inside dia and height, without lid
Answer:	Inside diameter appears to be 10 in. Inside height is 2 inches.
Question:	inside dia and height, without lid
Answer:	10" id, 2 1/8" ht w/o lid

Product features

Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast-Iron Braiser

The enameled cast iron braiser is uniquely designed for maximum performance, transforming tough cuts of meat and hearty vegetables into tender, flavorful dishes. Food is first seared over high heat, then finished slowly in a flavorful liquid. The wide base of the braiser allows ingredients to be placed in a single layer for proper searing; once liquid is added, the domed lid continuously circulates steam to lock in moisture and flavor.

Cooking with cast iron

Enameled cast iron is a remarkable and robust material that performs well with modern requirements for food preparation and cooking. Whether you choose to stir-fry, slow-cook a casserole, sear a steak or bake a cake, there is a shape that is suitable. Cast iron performs well for either slow cooking or high-temperature searing.

Cast iron can be used reliably on any heat source, including induction, and with any oven or grill. It has the ability to retain heat efficiently, which allows for use of lower heat settings in stovetop and oven cooking. On the table, a hot covered dish will keep food hot for second servings.

Cast iron can also be used to keep foods cold. A chilled dish becomes an ideal cold food server on a hot summer day. It can also be placed in the freezer for food storage or advanced food preparation.

Heat recommendations

Le Creuset cast iron cookware can be used on all heat sources including gas, electric solid plate or radiant ring, vitro-ceramic glass, induction, and ovens fired by gas, oil, coal or wood. When using any glass-topped stove, always lift the pan when moving it; never slide it, as this may damage the stovetop or the base of the pan.

Always match the pan’s base size to the stovetop heat zone to maximize efficiency, and to prevent overheating of the pan sides or damage to the handles.

Gas flames must always be confined to the base area, and must never extend around the sidewalls of the pan. Long handles should be positioned safely where they do not hang over the front of the stove or other heat zones.

Cleaning and Care

Always cool a hot pan for a few minutes before washing.

Do not plunge a hot pan into cold water. While Le Creuset’s enamel is designed to be the most durable on the market, thermal shock may still occur, resulting in cracking or loss of enamel.

If there are food residues, fill the pan with warm water and let soak for 15 to 20 minutes before washing. A brush can be useful for removing small food deposits, or for cleaning between the ribs on grills. Do not use scourers or abrasive cleaners on the cooking surface. To avoid damaging the enamel, do not use metallic pads or harsh abrasive cleaning agents.

Light stains or metal marks caused by metal tools can be removed with Le Creuset cookware cleaner. An occasional cleaning with this product will also retain the new appearance of your pans. Le Creuset enameled cast iron is extremely durable but it may be damaged if accidentally dropped or knocked against a hard surface.

Product description

Slow simmer a flavorful stew or bake up a new creation with the versatile Crock-Pot Artisan 5 Qt. Braiser Dutch oven with self basting lid. Made of quality cast iron with a beautiful and durable enameled finish, it looks great in the kitchen or on the table. The Artisan series is an updated American classic that every home needs. Cook delicious meals with this versatile braiser which distributes and retains heat evenly. Effortlessly take it from the stovetop to the oven and store leftovers in the refrigerator. It looks great in the kitchen or on the table. The lower profile is a true selling point for cooking, serving and storage. Oven and stove top safe. Order yours today!

• The original slow cooker distributes and retains heat evenly and has generous sized handles
• Self-basting lid creates a continuous basting environment
• Cast Iron with a non-stick surface
• Sturdy and moveable
• Easy to clean and rust free, hand wash recommended

User questions & answers

Question:	Does anyone know the Diameter of the lid
Answer:	This rug has a rubber backing, which is machine washable. It just depends on if your washer is large enough to hold a 5x8 rug. But yes, it is machine washable.
Question:	Is the black color braiser (the one that is labeled as "preseasoned" enameled? How wide the the mouth and the base of the braiser? Thanks
Answer:	Hi Marge, The thickness of this rug is 1/2 inch. Hope this helps!
Question:	can anyone tell me how deep the cooking surface is without the lid
Answer:	Yes, it doesn’t stick.
Question:	Does anyone have the interior cooking surface demensions? Especially the burner contact size
Answer:	I bought the earth tone color, mine has different shades of blues browns greys greens and tans, it's a very colorful rug. Hope this helps.

Product features

Crock Pot Artisan Cast Iron Dutch Oven, 5 quart, Sapphire Blue

Crock Pot 5 quart Cast Iron Dutch Oven with lid is perfect for an array of yummy meals for any size of family. Cook with cast iron and you’ll never want to go back. Cast iron is extremely versatile, making it useful for all of your cooking needs. No matter what you’re making, this cookware will always be ready to do whatever you need.

You can create everything from a delicious chicken piccata, a delectable homemade tomato sauce or many one pot meals are possible with this multipurpose Dutch Oven by Crock Pot.

Easy To Care For

The enameled cast iron is easy to take care of and allows for easy cleaning after every use. When pot is cool, we recommend washing it by hand with soap and water. This will help preserve the cookware giving you nearly endless uses out of this quality pot.

To prevent scratches, use nylon brushes when cleaning and wooden utensils during cooking. This will help prolong the integrity of the pot and let you enjoy more lovely dinners in the future.

Additional Colors: Scarlet Red

Additional Colors: Slate Gray

Additional Colors: Sunset Orange

Additional Colors: Teal Ombre

Product description

• 45% larger handles that provide a sure grip, even with oven mitts
• The superior heat distribution and retention of le creuset enameled cast iron
• An advanced sand-colored interior enamel with even more resistance to wear
• A larger composite knob that withstands temperatures up to 500ºF
• Colorful, long-lasting exterior enamel that resists chipping and cracking

User questions & answers

Question:	What is the diameter of the pot and what is the distance from one handle to the other. I have to make sure this fits my small electric oven
Answer:	It's 15.75 inches handle to handle. Fits perfectly in my Breville toaster oven. I make pan pizzas in it and into the Breville they go. It's a beautiful pan.
Question:	Where is this item made
Answer:	Hi. The item is made in France. I bought it from Amazon in 2014 not 2013. I have used all of 3 times, and it's in it's original box. Hope this helps.
Question:	what are the measurements
Answer:	Inside diameter is 10 1/4inches by 4 1/4in deep. That measurement is without the lid. With lid on it is 5 3/4 inches deep including knob.
Question:	can you use this on an induction stove
Answer:	Absolutely. I've been using mine on induction for years. (I am sure if an induction unit shorted out it had nothing to do with this particular cookware).

Product features

Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast-Iron Braiser

The enameled cast iron braiser is uniquely designed for maximum performance, transforming tough cuts of meat and hearty vegetables into tender, flavorful dishes. Food is first seared over high heat, then finished slowly in a flavorful liquid. The wide base of the braiser allows ingredients to be placed in a single layer for proper searing; once liquid is added, the domed lid continuously circulates steam to lock in moisture and flavor.

Cooking with cast iron

Enameled cast iron is a remarkable and robust material that performs well with modern requirements for food preparation and cooking. Whether you choose to stir-fry, slow-cook a casserole, sear a steak or bake a cake, there is a shape that is suitable. Cast iron performs well for either slow cooking or high-temperature searing.

Cast iron can be used reliably on any heat source, including induction, and with any oven or grill. It has the ability to retain heat efficiently, which allows for use of lower heat settings in stovetop and oven cooking. On the table, a hot covered dish will keep food hot for second servings.

Cast iron can also be used to keep foods cold. A chilled dish becomes an ideal cold food server on a hot summer day. It can also be placed in the freezer for food storage or advanced food preparation.

Heat recommendations

Le Creuset cast iron cookware can be used on all heat sources including gas, electric solid plate or radiant ring, vitro-ceramic glass, induction, and ovens fired by gas, oil, coal or wood. When using any glass-topped stove, always lift the pan when moving it; never slide it, as this may damage the stovetop or the base of the pan.

Always match the pan’s base size to the stovetop heat zone to maximize efficiency, and to prevent overheating of the pan sides or damage to the handles.

Gas flames must always be confined to the base area, and must never extend around the sidewalls of the pan. Long handles should be positioned safely where they do not hang over the front of the stove or other heat zones.

Cleaning and Care

Always cool a hot pan for a few minutes before washing.

Do not plunge a hot pan into cold water. While Le Creuset’s enamel is designed to be the most durable on the market, thermal shock may still occur, resulting in cracking or loss of enamel.

If there are food residues, fill the pan with warm water and let soak for 15 to 20 minutes before washing. A brush can be useful for removing small food deposits, or for cleaning between the ribs on grills. Do not use scourers or abrasive cleaners on the cooking surface. To avoid damaging the enamel, do not use metallic pads or harsh abrasive cleaning agents.

Light stains or metal marks caused by metal tools can be removed with Le Creuset cookware cleaner. An occasional cleaning with this product will also retain the new appearance of your pans. Le Creuset enameled cast iron is extremely durable but it may be damaged if accidentally dropped or knocked against a hard surface.

• 🍲 [4Qt Gradient Blue Cast Iron Braiser] KOCH SYSTEM CS cast iron braiser pan adopts superb firing technology, it has a gradient blue enameled coating and is 100% free of PFOA and APFO. The 4-Quart capacity can cook a variety of delicious dishes.
• 🍲[Durable Cast Iron Enameled] The exquisite and beautiful cast iron enamel has heat resistance, cooking food can be heated evenly, with high wear resistance, the outer gradient blue enameled coating is, and the inner white enamel is combined with cast iron. it is durable and can prevent rust.
• 🍲[Looped Handle and Stainless Steel Knob] The cast iron has looped handle, it can easily move the pot; the stainless steel knob is embedded in the lid of the enamel cast iron braiser, which can withstand high temperatures to prevent burns. you can open the lid to view the food while cooking.
• 🍲[Suitable for A Variety of Heat Sources] KOCH SYSTEM CS enamel cast iron saucepan can be used for various heat sources, including gas stoves, electric ceramic stoves, ovens, etc. If you use a glass stove, please pay attention to lifting the pot when moving the pot, Do not slide it, otherwise, it may damage the bottom of the pot and the surface of the stove.
• 🍲[Easy to Clean and Maintain] The high gloss and the smooth inner wall of the enamel is easy to clean. If there are food deposits, add warm water to the saucepan and let it stand for more than 15 minutes. Use a neutral detergent and a soft abrasive brush to clean it. Please note that the hot saucepan that has just been used should not be directly exposed to cold water to avoid cracking or damage to the enamel surface due to thermal shock.

User questions & answers

Question:	Can this Braiser be used on conventional electric stove tops with spiral metal heating elements
Answer:	I have other enamel cast iron cookware and I used to use it on that type of stove. I have a gas range now but I really don't see why this braiser would be any different on an electric range.
Question:	Is Cast-Iron easy to clean
Answer:	Yeah, I only use a soft abrasive brush and neutral detergent to clean after frying and stewing. Sometimes, If I make some food deposits, I will add warm water to the saucepan and let the water stand for more than 15 minutes. Then, I clean the food deposits quickly.
Question:	Do the cast iron skillet stick when it uses to fry the food because cast-iron I have used is very sticking
Answer:	NO, it doesn't. This cast iron skillet is different from other brands. There is a skillet coating. It has a similar function to the non-stick pan. Awesome!
Question:	what is the deep and width of the Braiser
Answer:	The Cast-Iron is 2.5 inch deep,12.3 inch wide and 16 inch wide (including handles).

Product features

About the KOCH SYSYEME CS

KOCH SYSYEME CS,since the 1980s, is a kitchenware brand of Carl Schmidt Sohn, in Solingen, Germany. Building on our expertise, since 1829, in the development of knives and cutlery, KOCH SYSYEME CS has been expanding into further kitchenware product categories with focus on flatware and cookware concepts that perfectly meet the needs of our customers.KOCH SYSYEME CS core product lines are characterized by flexibility and individuality

The brand KOCH SYSYEME CS is available in many different parts of the world and distributed worldwide through our international brand officers in Los Angeles and in Hong Kong. Due to the international representation as well as the experience and expertise in kitchenware, KOCH SYSYEME CS can meet the needs of its business partners.

4QT Capacity and Cast Iron Material

CSK casserole and Dutch oven series, durable cast iron material, moderate capacity, satisfy your daily cooking, bright colors embellish your kitchen.

Nonstick Casserole

The enamel cast iron surface is smooth and non-sticky, very suitable for frying, frying, stewing, stewing, baking and more! Using a lower heat setting will prevent food from sticking. Metal utensils will scratch the surface of porcelain, so please use wooden, silicone or nylon utensils

Looped Handle for Easy Grip

The round and easy-to-grip handle allows you to transport dishes from the oven to the table easily and safely. Please pay attention to using heat insulation pads or heat insulation gloves when you need to take out the food in the oven. In addition, because this cast iron casserole is made of heavy cast iron, please note that move it carefully to other counter tops after finishing cooking.

Easy to Clean &Maintain

When using it for the first time, pay attention to use warm water and neutral detergent to clean it before use. Since the non-stick surface of the enamel can be cleaned more thoroughly, dishwasher safe and hand-washing is also very convenient. It is not recommended to use strong detergent for cleaning, it may damage the enamel surface of the cast iron saucepan.

Which Casserole Cookware You Want Choose to Decorate Your Kitchen?

CSK enamel cast iron cookware will be one ideal choice for you, this 4QT brasier can be used as hot pot, soup pot, medium, and small fire stew pot. It is even ideal for containers used to store food. The nontoxic enamel coating and cast iron layer, smooth exterior, you can total have healthy meals every day. The stainless steel knob is embedded on the lid, sturdy cast-iron structure, large capacity, suitable for a variety of boilers, you can choose a variety of cooking methods with your family.

• 🔥 Capacity: 3.8-Quart; Enameled cast iron pan for braise, bake, broil, saute, simmer and roast
• 🔥 Heavy-duty Cast Iron Core with Vegetable Oil Coating, providing excellent heat retention and heat distribution, also easy to clean
• 🔥 Porcelain Enamel surface will not react to food, nor absorb the smell; Ideal for cooking, sousing and storing food
• 🔥 Perfect-fitting Lid, no more worries about the steam leaking; Wide and comfortable handles for easy and secure grip
• 🔥 Oven-safe to 540 degrees F, compatible with all cooking surfaces; Hand washing with warm water is recommended (Not dishwasher safe)

User questions & answers

Question:	What is the weight of this product
Answer:	I put it on my kitchen scale and with the lid, it's 14 pounds 3.5 ounces.
Question:	Can you use metal utensils in this pan
Answer:	This pan has a non-stick coating on the inside. It is always a good idea to avoid metal utensils in any pan that has been prepared to avoid food from sticking. With that said, I've been using this pan for several months and the non-stick coating is done well - it doesn't flake or get damaged with normal cooking like some cheaper pans do. This pan is used more than any other pan we own. It is extremely durable and is outstanding for cooking a family meal in one pan. My wife and I both love it!
Question:	Where is this made
Answer:	the box says "Made in China"
Question:	Is this made in China
Answer:	yes

Product features

Quality Casserole, Large Capacity

Heavy-duty enameled cast iron pan designed for preparing and serving your meals;

3.8 Quart pan, cast iron core combines with porcelain enamel, super heat tolerant, enjoying cooking with no worries.

Thoughtful and Practical Design

Humanity details design: perfect-fit lid with convenient handle, no more steam leaking and easy to lift up;

Two wide and sturdy handles on the side, convenient to carry the pot without worrying the heat burning your hands.

Product description

The enameled cast-iron 4 Qt covered braiser is part of Tramontina's Gourmet collection of premium products engineered and manufactured with the finest design, materials and workmanship, outperforming similar products within the market and delivering the best quality and value to the cooking professional and enthusiast alike. Prized by cooks for heat retention and even cooking, this enameled cast-iron 4-qt covered braiser comes in a vibrant, gradated porcelain enamel exterior finish offering an elegant kitchen to table serving option. The self-basting condensation ridges on lid uniformly collect and direct vapors onto food, producing moist and savory dishes making the braiser a perfect vessel for those slow cooking recipes, braised meats, baking dishes and even for frying. For added versatility the lid from the Tramontina Gourmet enameled cast iron 4 Qt covered braiser fits the 12-inch skillet from the same family perfectly! The heavy-gauge cast-iron covered braiser cooking surface is coated with off-white, smooth and easy-to-clean PFOA- and PTFE-free porcelain enamel and the sturdy side handles make handling a filled pan more manageable. Hand-wash only, compatible with all cooktops and oven-safe to 450 F. This product is assembled and packaged in USA and offered under a lifetime warranty.

• Easy-to-clean, PFOA- and PTFE-free porcelain enamel cooking surface
• Self-basting condensation ridges on lid uniformly collect and direct vapors onto food, producing moist and savory dishes
• For added versatility, shares the lid with Tramontina's 12-inch cast-iron skillet (item # 80131/055DS)
• Compatible with gas, electric, ceramic glass and induction cooktops; Oven-safe up to 450°F (232°F)
• Hand-wash only; Lifetime Warranty

User questions & answers

Question:	How much does this weigh (6.5qt
Answer:
Question:	what are the four black plastic-wedges that sit on the edge of the pan for and how do you use them
Answer:
Question:	what is the measurement for this pan? I am looking for one that is at least 14 inches in across the actual pan and at least 2-3 inches deep
Answer:
Question:	Is it made in China
Answer:

Product features

Tramontina Enameled Cast Iron

Make each piece of cookware a part of your family. The Enameled Cast-Iron line is prized by cooks for unprecedented heat retention and even cooking, and it’s heirloom-like durability allows you to pass down culinary traditions to generations to come.

Each piece comes with a vibrant, gradated porcelain enamel exterior finish, offering an elegant kitchen to table serving option. The heavy-gauge cast-iron interior is coated with an easy-to-clean porcelain enamel finish, while the sturdy side handles make transport easy. The self-basting condensation ridges on lid uniformly collect and direct vapors onto food, producing moist and savory dishes making this cookware perfect for slow cooking recipes, braised meats, baked dishes, and even for frying. Each piece of cookware is compatible with all heating surfaces and is oven safe up to 450F/232C.

This cookware is part of the Tramontina Gourmet Collection of premium products engineered and manufactured with the finest design, materials and workmanship, outperforms similar products within the market and delivers one of a best quality and value to the cooking professional and enthusiast alike.

Superior Heat Retention and Distribution

Distributes heat slowly and evenly to tenderize meats, poultry and vegetables.

Durable Porcelain Enamel Exterior

The cookware’s colored enameled cast iron finishes are striking, easy to clean and long lasting.

Smooth, Porcelain Enamel Interior

Integral handles provide added support.Most pieces in the line feature a smooth, off-white porcelain enamel interior that provides easy clean-up.

Stainless Steel Lid Knob

Solid cast construction is extremely durable and oven-safe.

Integral Handles

Integral handles provide added support.

Self-Basting Condensation Ridges on Lid

Uniformly collect and direct vapors onto food, producing moist and savory dishes.

Tramontina's Legacy At Work

Tramontina is part of a global manufacturing legacy established in 1911. We design innovative products, and are proud of our domestic manufacturing, distribution and logistics. We strive to provide exceptional service to our customers, while supporting nearly 1,000 direct jobs within the United States.

Product description

With the signature collection bruiser, the cook employs both wet and dry heats to break down tough cuts of meat and tenderize fresh vegetables. The pan's flat base allows for more than braising, including techniques like poaching, searing, roasting, stir-frying and browning. The signature collection bruiser also features a low profile that makes it a convenient serving solution for crowded tables and buffet-style settings. From rich risottos and spicy curry to Jasmine rice for stir-fry, every Le creuset bruiser is well-suited for preparing a wide range of main courses and side dishes that require careful moisture control.

• 45% larger handles that provide a sure grip, even with oven mitts
• The superior heat distribution and retention of Le creuset enameled cast iron
• An advanced sand-colored interior enamel with even more resistance to wear
• A larger composite knob that withstands temperatures up to 500F
• Colorful, long-lasting exterior enamel that resists chipping and cracking

User questions & answers

Question:	Is the 5 qt braiser number
Answer:	The pan is 12" wide, excluding handles. The cooking surface (the part that lays on the stove) is 9 1/2" The handles protrude out 2" inches on either side making with with handles 16".
Question:	Most recipes are for 3.5 qt. Do you have to adjust for 5 qt
Answer:	In China.
Question:	I have a family of four. Is this a good size
Answer:	It seems to be about 9 1/2 inches in diameter. I love the pan. Very heavy and very useful in oven or top of stove
Question:	Does anyone own both the 3.5qt and the 5qt braiser? I'm torn on what size to get...I have a 4qt round and a 9.5qt oval for other jobs. Family of
Answer:	Heating is very similar to regular cast iron. It gets hot and holds heat well. The enameling means it doesn't need to be seasoned (except maybe rubbing a little oil around the rim edge, which is exposed and not enamel-covered}. It is also more non-stick, rust-proof, even heating and can be deglazed very easily, and in general, is easy to clean. You can also cook acids without it affecting the pan. Be careful not to bang it too much with metal utensils, as it will chip the useful and attractive enamel, however if it does chip, it has no affect on cooking, as it is just regular cast iron underneath. Regular cast iron can be used on outdoor grills and over campfires (open flames), but not recommended with enameled. Also in the case of this pan, it can also be covered to work as a dutch oven, though not as deep, more like a skillet version.

Product features

Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast-Iron Braiser

The enameled cast iron braiser is uniquely designed for maximum performance, transforming tough cuts of meat and hearty vegetables into tender, flavorful dishes. Food is first seared over high heat, then finished slowly in a flavorful liquid. The wide base of the braiser allows ingredients to be placed in a single layer for proper searing; once liquid is added, the domed lid continuously circulates steam to lock in moisture and flavor.

Cooking with cast iron

Enameled cast iron is a remarkable and robust material that performs well with modern requirements for food preparation and cooking. Whether you choose to stir-fry, slow-cook a casserole, sear a steak or bake a cake, there is a shape that is suitable. Cast iron performs well for either slow cooking or high-temperature searing.

Cast iron can be used reliably on any heat source, including induction, and with any oven or grill. It has the ability to retain heat efficiently, which allows for use of lower heat settings in stovetop and oven cooking. On the table, a hot covered dish will keep food hot for second servings.

Cast iron can also be used to keep foods cold. A chilled dish becomes an ideal cold food server on a hot summer day. It can also be placed in the freezer for food storage or advanced food preparation.

Heat recommendations

Le Creuset cast iron cookware can be used on all heat sources including gas, electric solid plate or radiant ring, vitro-ceramic glass, induction, and ovens fired by gas, oil, coal or wood. When using any glass-topped stove, always lift the pan when moving it; never slide it, as this may damage the stovetop or the base of the pan.

Always match the pan’s base size to the stovetop heat zone to maximize efficiency, and to prevent overheating of the pan sides or damage to the handles.

Gas flames must always be confined to the base area, and must never extend around the sidewalls of the pan. Long handles should be positioned safely where they do not hang over the front of the stove or other heat zones.

Cleaning and Care

Always cool a hot pan for a few minutes before washing.

Do not plunge a hot pan into cold water. While Le Creuset’s enamel is designed to be the most durable on the market, thermal shock may still occur, resulting in cracking or loss of enamel.

If there are food residues, fill the pan with warm water and let soak for 15 to 20 minutes before washing. A brush can be useful for removing small food deposits, or for cleaning between the ribs on grills. Do not use scourers or abrasive cleaners on the cooking surface. To avoid damaging the enamel, do not use metallic pads or harsh abrasive cleaning agents.

Light stains or metal marks caused by metal tools can be removed with Le Creuset cookware cleaner. An occasional cleaning with this product will also retain the new appearance of your pans. Le Creuset enameled cast iron is extremely durable but it may be damaged if accidentally dropped or knocked against a hard surface.