Dutch Ovens

A Dutch oven is a large, thick pot, usually made out of cast iron or aluminum, with a heavy cover.  One of the most versatile pieces of cookware, they are used for baking, roasting, simmering, stewing, boiling, and steaming. Modern Dutch ovens can be placed in a conventional oven for cooking, but they are also commonly used as an outdoor cooking receptacle.

Outdoor cookin'

The Dutch oven, also sometimes called a casserole oven or French oven, usually has three legs, which ensure balance in outdoor cooking. Leg height is also an important factor, because a Dutch oven should sit evenly in or above the coals of a fire.  A tight rimmed lid with a raised edge is equally important, so that coals can be placed on top of the Dutch oven.  A raised edge also ensures the proper amount of cooking heat within.

Aluminum or cast iron?

If you are considering purchasing a Dutch oven, you'll need to decide if you want it made out of aluminum or cast iron.  Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of each:

Aluminum dutch ovens are lighter than cast iron ovens, a bonus if you are hiking or camping. Another advantage to aluminum is that it doesn't rust, which makes cleaning and maintenance much easier.  Aluminum also tends to heat faster than cast iron, minimizing prep time. 

The downside?  Aluminum can melt if it is put into direct contact with burning coals.  Additionally, aluminum doesn't retain heat for a long period of time. Some would assert, as well, that food cooked in a cast iron oven tastes better.

Cast iron dutch ovens are solid and durable.  Even on a windy day, a cast iron is able to heat food evenly (or at least more evenly than an aluminum oven!)  Cast iron is also able to retain heat for a much longer period of time than aluminum.  Cast iron reacts more slowly to temperature changes, which means you are less likely to burn your food if a strong wind comes along.

The Disadvantages?  Weight is definitely the number one downside to a cast iron Dutch oven. Likewise, cast iron can be hard to clean, and it rusts very quickly!  If not properly maintained, rust can develop within a matter of days.  

Clean-up time
 
Cleaning your Dutch oven is relatively easy and painless, particularly if it's made out of aluminum.  For cast iron, simply scrape away food and then wipe with warm water.  Do not use soap, or let water stand inside the oven!  This will cause your future food to taste soapy and rust to form. 

For aluminum, simply scrub with a rag or brush and hot soapy water, like any other piece of aluminum cookware. 

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