Dutch ovens

I love my man who speaks Dutch fluently...but equally important in my life are my Dutch ovens.

Someone asked me why it was important to use a Dutch oven for the Spanish mussels recipe.  The answer is pretty much in the definition of a Dutch oven.  According to Wikipedia...the source for ALL information *tongue in cheek* says that it is "a thick-walled, usually cast iron, cooking pot with a tight-fitting lid".  You want it heavy so that it can handle high heat and the tight fitting lid prevents any steam from escaping.  Any meat you cook will remain moist and succulent because the stem will rise to the lid, form condensation and then drip back onto the meat...it's self basting!

Another great thing about Dutch ovens is that they can be used in the oven and on the stove top. 

Now, I prefer Le Creuset....even though they call them French ovens...whatever.  They did not pay me for this endorsement (though I would love to be a spokesperson). 

Yes, they are a bit...OK...a lot...pricey.  But a Busy Chick knows that you never have to pay full retail for anything.  I found most of mine at Marshall's, TJ Maxx and even Ross Dress 4 Less.  Just keep your eyes peeled and you can find them for around $100...even less than the cost at the outlet store.  They will last a lifetime as well.

Here is my favorite one...It's a 9 1/2 quart oval in Lemongrass.  This is great for gumbo, about 5-6 pounds of steamed mussels and a good sized roast.  This also happens to be the accent color in my purple kitchen...so it's perfect.

 

This one I found for something like $40 at a Marshall's in Los Angeles about 10 years ago.  This was my first baby.  It's a 5 quart oval in red.  This one is usually in the oven.  Great for baked chicken, roast and pork loins.

  

And my go to piece for smaller meals is a 4 1/2 Round, also in red.  Most often used for chili, stew, greens and even a super easy faux peach cobbler. 

 

I even turned my mom onto these.  Shhhhh...don't tell her that I am looking for the opportunity to "borrow" her HUGE 13 1/4 quart round one in Azure blue.  That's the gumbo party pot...one day.

As always, I welcome questions and comments.  I would love to know other brands that are equally heavy and durable.  If you have the info, pass it along!