We all want to create that amazing meal that will wow our family and friends. With the right recipe and cooking equipment, we can do just that. One of the best cooking tools around is the Dutch oven. And in this review article, we will be taking a look at some of the best Dutch Oven Uses.
This old friend is both versatile and sturdy. Many cooking novices hear the term Dutch Oven and think of it just for baking meals in the oven. This is far from the only use of this timeless piece of equipment.
Modern Dutch ovens are great for many applications and can be used on a variety of stovetops as well as in the oven at temperatures in excess of 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This is why we wrote this article on the Top 6 Dutch Oven Uses.
Modern Dutch ovens are great for many applications and can be used on a variety of stovetops as well as in the oven at temperatures in excess of 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This is why we wrote this article on the Top 6 Dutch Oven Uses.
The following list is just a small sample of what modern Dutch ovens can do. A quick online search will show you just how versatile this little tool is. From baking bread to casseroles you can be sure that a Dutch oven is a perfect addition to any family kitchen.
This list is not in any particular order of importance and should not be taken as the only uses for the modern day Dutch oven. To get a better overview of Dutch ovens and how to choose the right one, check out our article on the Things To Consider When Selecting a Dutch Oven. So here goes…
Top 6 Dutch Oven Uses:
Searing:
What better way to seal in juices and flavors of your favorite cut of meat than to pan sear. Doing this before baking or roasting a cut of meat will allow the juices to become trapped inside preventing all of that coveted flavor and moisture from seeping out and into the pan.
Frying:
Like searing, pan frying is yet another great use for your dutch oven. Whether you are frying potatoes or deep frying chicken, you can’t go wrong with a Dutch oven. Dutch Ovens heat up oil very evenly making temperature control a lot easier than with other pan types.
Just a word of warning though. Some ceramic enameled or coated Dutch ovens cannot handle the higher frying temperatures and you should always consult with the manufacturer before deep frying in any Dutch oven.
Casseroles:
Cooking A Casserole is a great way to throw a bunch of ingredients together and create an amazing meal for a large family. The unique ability of Dutch ovens to go from stovetop to oven will make meal creation a breeze.
You can cook pasta and meats on the stove top, then transfer to the oven with vegetables and a sauce of your choice to the oven to bake. Check out our review of the Gibson Home 92138.02 Hummington 5-Quart Ceramic Non-Stick Dutch Oven Convenience and great taste, what could be better?
Stews and Soups
What better way to feed your family nutritious yet convenient meals than to take meat, vegetables, and noodles or rice to create the ultimate soup or stew. Great for leftovers, your family will thank you as all of the flavors will meld into one amazing meal.
Dutch ovens make great heat conductors and are perfect for slow cooking as well as holding meals at temp until the whole family can enjoy your wonderful creation. Use your dutch oven to soak and cook beans for a hearty chili. Make a healthy vegetable soup or a meaty stew. The possibilities are near endless.
Roasting:
Dutch Ovens are very good at conducting and evenly distributing heat in many directions. If you purchase a dutch oven with an oven-safe lid then you will be able to seal in moisture as well as flavors preventing your meals from drying out.
The added benefit is that because Dutch ovens are so efficient at holding and circulating heat, you will use less energy compared to other types of cookware. Dutch ovens are perfect for roasting vegetables and meats the whole family will enjoy.
Baking:
One of the last uses on our Top 6 Dutch Oven usage list, is baking. From bread to cinnamon rolls, modern Dutch ovens are great for all or most of your baking needs. The efficient heat distribution lends itself well to creating soft fluffy bread with a crispy crust.
Just top your dutch oven with an oven-safe lid and watch as it bakes the perfect treats. The Dutch oven will even act like a stone pizza oven. Sealing in flavor while creating that crunchy crust we all desire. Try baking your next sweet treat or a buttery loaf of bread in your Dutch Oven. Your family will thank you.
Camping:
Last but certainly not least on this list of Dutch oven uses is camping. This is where Dutch ovens excel, outdoor cooking. And look no further than the Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Deep Camp Dutch Oven. And to read our full review, you can click here. This workhorse is specifically designed for rough and rugged outdoor use. So, how and when to use a Dutch oven while camping you ask? Well, continue reading below for some quick tips.
How To Use A Dutch Oven While Camping:
The great thing about cast iron Dutch ovens is the fact that most models can be placed directly in a fireplace or firepit. Likewise, this cookware type can whether harsh outdoor conditions while preparing top-notch meals. That is why our pick is the Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Deep Camp Dutch Oven. This Dutch oven is extra deep for larger meals that will feed even the hungriest of families.
Top 6 Dutch Oven Uses Conclusion:
Well, there you have it. Our article on the Top 6 Dutch Oven Uses. This is by no means a be all end all list. Search for more wonderful recipes and Dutch oven uses for yourself. With that said, if you are interested in a unique article on Dutch Oven Versus Slow Cooker, then click here.
You will be pleasantly surprised at the versatility and simplicity a Dutch oven offers you. Whether it’s for your Sunday family meals or a potluck for the office, you will not regret purchasing your new Dutch Oven.
We hope this list was helpful and if you like you can check out some of our Dutch Oven reviews, like the Calphalon Classic Nonstick Dutch Oven with Cover. This dutch oven is both sturdy and versatile making it a great and affordable addition to any kitchen. Thank you very much for your time and please take care.
