Dutch Oven

The walls of a Dutch oven should be the same thickness all the way around. The lid should fit tight and lie flush around the entire circumference of the Dutch oven. The bail, or handle of the Dutch oven, should be heavy gauge wire.

When choosing a Dutch oven, material should be considered as well. Generally Dutch ovens are made of either cast iron or heavy aluminum. Cast iron Dutch ovens are "seasoned;" this process involves a coating of cooking oil baked into the entire surface of the Dutch oven. The baking hardens the oil into a protective coating over the metal. This process is done initially before cooking with the Dutch oven. Since cast iron is cleaned only with warm water and not soap, any cooking done in a cast iron Dutch oven only enhances the flavor. The convenience of using soap and water to clean aluminum Dutch ovens makes them easier to care for. But those who cook with Dutch ovens often generally prefer cast iron.

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