MariaS

Looking for feedback from members who use Le Creuset cookware. I have heard great things about this but am reluctant to purchase any pieces. In addition to being expensive, this cookware line is very heavy and I have a glass cooktop, which I'm afraid could be damaged if I make one "slip" Am interested in hearing your reviews on this

Jenyfari

The other day we were in at a local cookware store and were talking to the owner who happened to be a chef. We run a consumer guide to cookware so we tend to hang out a lot in kitchen stores.

My friend told him of her experiences with the cheap Dutch oven she had bought many years ago and how she could really notice the difference when she purchased a Le Creuset.

I then told him about my Chasseur Dutch oven. The chef immediately told us how the Chasseur model chipped constantly and wasn't as good as Le Creuset which goes through so many more checks in the manufacturing process.

Well my Chasseur hasn't chipped yet but I have only had it for a few months but it was good to get confirmation from a chef as to how good Le Creuset actually is.

Cooks Illustrated also tested Dutch ovens and the Le Creuset came in as the best cast iron version. The All Clad 8qt won the best stainless steel version.

The Le Creueset is also lighter than the Chasseur even though they are the same size. I have been told the cheaper enameled cast iron products use scrap metals in the mix so that is why they are heavier.

If you have a concern about paying all that money then Lodge is a good alternative. It has also received really good ratings but is much cheaper.

But I would be checking first with the manufacturer of your stove top to ensure that you can use enameled cast iron.

We've written about the Le Creuset Dutch oven here if you want more info...

Dutch Ovens: stainless steel, enamel and cast iron dutch ovens

And also a comparison of cast iron brands....

Cast Iron Cookware: Enamel Cast Iron Cookware Sets, Skillets, Pots and Pans

__________________
Only Cookware
http://www.only-cookware.com/