Customer Reviews

Le Creuset Enameled Cast-Iron 7-1/4-Quart Oval Doufeu Oven, Cherry

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Best Dutch Oven. Meat could not be more tender. Pot Roast done 3 1/2 hours at 350 degrees is more tender than one done in slow cooker for 8-10 hours (I actually did this side-by-side test.)

This Doufeu is the perfect size and shape for long roasts and stews. It has all the heat retaining, even heating and easy clean-up qualities of the regular Le Creuset enameled Cast Iron French Ovens.

Pros:

1) The oval shape keeps the liquids and other accompaniments close to the roast. The shape also enables one to put a larger roast in the same capacity pot.

2) It is the perfect size and shape for a very large chicken, a duck or a mini-turkey.

3) The close fit of the lid and pot help keep the roast moist.

4) The little spikes on the underside of the lid are supposed to encourage condensation to drip back on to and baste the meat while it's cooking and the well on the topside of the lid is for ice-cubes and iced water to help speed that process up.

5) The double handles make it easier to lift the heavy cast iron lid than the traditional single handle.

6) The flatter lid makes it easy to store other large-bottomed pots and pans on top of it.

Cons:

1) Only available in Red or Blue in N. America.

2) Heavy (as cast iron should be)

3) Pricey. The Doufeu costs more than a regular oval Le Creuset of the same capacity. And Le Creuset itself is not cheap to begin with.

I have this pot and I use it at least twice a week in the winter months. I have bought 2 more of these as Christmas gifts for friends and family.

The Doufeu

I purchased my first Doufeu three days ago. I have wanted a Doufeu for some time but could not justify the cost.

The first thing I cooked was a chicken. The results are a bird that is as tender and moist as butter. The broth that is rendered is a gift from the Gods and if you make soups you will know what I mean. Richly flavored and colored, the goodness and essence of all the ingredients cooked in the pot.

I did not use ice, just browned the chicken and added vegetables and seasoning.

I did not lift the lid too often, I am very pleased with the results.

I wish I had purchased a Doufeu sooner. It is a practical and beautiful addition to my cooking tools.

What can you say, it's Le Creuset. Cooked beef roast with the veggies and the self-basting was fabulous. Such flavor in such a simple meal! Clean up was easy.

The oval shape is a nice addition to my Le Creuset, as well.