Dutch ovens are the best vessel in the kitchen for braising meats, but they are useful for so much more. Sauteing and boiling vegetables, making soups and stews, and even deep-frying are all great ways to use them. We feel no kitchen is complete without the perfect Dutch oven, so we gathered a list of our favorites.
The warm beige interior is ideal for watching meats brown or sauces develop. When it's time to serve, you can easily carry this stylish enameled cast iron Dutch oven by the loop handles to the center of your table. The matte black enamel rim will hide any stray scratches or nicks left by cooking utensils, and both pieces are safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.
Many enameled cast iron Dutch ovens come in muted colors, but this version from AmazonBasics is offered in sharp blue, green, red, and a crisp white. The 4.3-quart capacity is just right for braising medium-sized cuts of meat, or for smaller batches of stew. This Dutch oven also comes in a large 7.5-quart size.
Save time and get better tasting meals thanks to this self-basting Dutch oven. The ridges inside the lid help to collect the steam and direct that moisture back toward your food. The medium blue color of this Dutch oven will remind you of a high-end brand like Le Creuset, but without the high price tag to match.
This newer Dutch oven style from Lodge has two main improvements in its design. First, the handles are angled upward, making them easier to grip. Second, the lid has rings on the interior, which collects the steam and drip the flavor over your food. This is the type of cast iron purchase that will last you a lifetime...or longer.
The perfect pot for any dish
The high sidewalls on Dutch ovens make them excellent at conducting heat around the food inside, rather than just from below. This is why they are great for preparing so many different types of meals. If you want to level up your cooking game in the kitchen, we recommend the Lodge Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven. The porcelain surface resists stains and is a bit more forgiving than traditionally seasoned cast iron. Multiple color choices will let you match this option to cookware you already own or turn it into a statement piece you keep on the stovetop.
