Nothing Exceptional but Gets the Job Done
I’ve owned this 4.5 Qt. Amazon Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven for almost two months and have used it three times to date. Upon arrival and at first glance, the gradient blue color is beautiful and super glossy; most importantly, the pot is heavy for its size - as it should be. It looks exactly like the product pictures, with a globular shape than square shape as others. Unfortunately, I also noticed that there was one pin hole and two tiny uneven protrusions on the enamel inside the pot. I own three other enameled cast iron cookware from two other brands (photos attached for size comparison) and performance wise, this cast iron by Amazon performs equally to them. The pot isn’t exceptional or special but it gets the job done. Other than the pin holes and protrusions, I have no complaints. This isn’t my first rodeo so when heating up the pot and while cooking, I have zero issues. I am starting the pan off at 4-Stars and will update my review as time progresses, or if I have any major issues with its durability or performance in subsequent months. For the amateur home cook, or for anyone who is new to cast iron cooking, below I’ve included tips that you may find useful while using this or any other enameled cast iron cookware. ================================ Regarding the 3 Photos and 1 video I've Attached: (Note: all photos were taken with an iPhone under kitchen lights during the evening. Photos have not been edited nor enhanced.) Photo 1: Size comparison of this Amazon Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven compared to three other enameled cast iron cookware that I own from two other brands. From left to right: 7 qt. Tramontina, 4.5 qt. Amazon, 3 qt. Lodge 4 qt. Tramontina. Photos 2 and 3: fresh produce shown next to 4.5qt Amazon Dutch Oven for color and size contrast. Video: 4.5 qt. Amazon Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven on gas stove over medium heat, with food cooking. TIPS THAT YOU MAY FIND USEFUL While Using your cast iron dutch oven: (Note: I included these similar tips in my review of a different enameled cast iron pot from a different brand. My tips can apply to all enameled cast iron cookware) 1. If you find that you have issues with food sticking, it could be that you are not heating up your cast iron pot properly to prevent undue hot spots. I heat my pot up gradually starting at low, then medium, then high heat. After my pot is very hot is when I add my fat/cooking oil. As the oil is heating up in the pot, I lift it and swirl the oil around to coat all sides of the pot that will come in contact with food. 2. Take into consideration the temperature of the items you are adding to your heated pot. As a general rule for cooking: when ever possible, ensure that the items you are adding to a hot pot are at room temperature, rather than ice cold from the fridge; this will assist with even cooking. 3. Also, get comfortable with adjusting your heat by lowering and raising it based on what you’ve added to the pot. In general, you will need more heat at the beginning of the cooking process, and less heat towards the end. If you cook by recipe, I highly recommend that you read all the steps ahead before starting, so that you become familiarized with all the procedures, allowing you to maneuver accordingly when you start cooking. 4. At the exception of searing meat to achieve a brown crust, deep frying, or when caramelizing onions, you should be stirring your pot (I recommend using a wooden spoon) every few minutes when cooking in cast iron that is placed over high heat. If you are braising on the stove at low heat versus braising in the oven, the frequency of your stirring will need to be adjusted. No matter how you’re cooking though, a watchful eye on the pot plus stirring, should both be a habit not an afterthought. 5. For all cooking vessels in general but especially for cast iron: after cooking, allow your pot to cool down completely before cleaning. NEVER immerse a hot cast iron pot into cold water, nor pour cold dish water into hot pot. You risk not only being scald by dangerous steam, but you also risk weakening the enamel, therefore lessening the durability of your pots over time. 6. This cookware and others like it from Tramontina and Lodge are economical and if used correctly, will perform well for most cooking; if used correctly, they should also last for years. Nonetheless, if you can afford it, authentic enameled cast iron cookware made in France by Le Creuset is the best way to go. Le Creuset is the gold standard in cast iron cookware and their quality is second to none. I definitely recommend this Amazon dutch oven but if you can afford to splurge, Le Creuset's reputation is stellar. As a professional chef, I've used them in high end kitchens and their quality and performance is premier.
