Dutch Ovens Cookware

A Dutch Oven is a cylindrical, heavy gauze cooking pot with a tight fitting lid used either on top of a range or in an oven. Made from heavy metal or ceramic, it provides even, constant, multi-directional radiant heat to the food cooked inside.  Dutch Ovens are an all purpose piece of cookware with a huge place in today's kitchens.

Dutch Ovens used for hundreds of years in many cultures. The basic pot originally designed with feet to sit above hot burning wood or coal in fireplaces.

Today Dutch Ovens are used on a stovetop in place of stockpots and baking dishes. Due to their heavy gauge, metal or ceramic construction can withstand a range of temperatures and cooking methods.

Dutch Ovens, great for simmering soups, stews over a long period. Due to their thick construction, size and shape, when used for roasting meats and vegetables, Dutch Ovens conduct heat and transfer heat to the contents from all direction thus using less energy for these long slow cooking times. The tight fitting lids retain moisture and prevent meats and vegetables from drying out during long cooking hours.

Dutch Ovens often are used to bake breads and other baked goods. The radiant heat acts like a stone hearth of bread or pizza ovens and the tight fitting lid holds in moisture and steam to create a crispy crust.

Many varieties exist with differences in prices. A quality Dutch Oven should feel very heavy indicating a solid construction and heat conducting capabilities.  The lid should fit tight, walls thick and the handles safe and secure.

Dutch ovens have the tendency to get hot – too hot. This is why you need a pair of gloves so you can transport it from place to place, burner to burner. You will need some heavy-duty oven gloves.
These are especially handy when you are working outside in the campfire. Leather is still the best material when it comes to gloves, preferably with a lining of insulation on the inside. This protects your hands fully from the heat and flames. If you are cooking outside, you might also want to bring a shovel with you. This allows you to stir coals or briquettes. You will also be able to handle the pieces easier, as some cooking methods require you to place them right on top of the pot.

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