2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:
2.0 out of 5 stars
A pretty casserole, in need of improvement!, May 3, 2007
This review is from: Rachael Ray 3-1/2-Quart Cast-Iron Covered Oval Casserole, Orange (Kitchen)
These "made in China" casseroles are pretty, and similar to Le Creuset in appearance, enamel over cast iron, however people are noticing the enamel does not stand up well to heat, and it cracks. (See reviews on "Rachael Ray 3-1/2-Quart Cast-Iron Covered Round Casserole, Blue", and talk with people who handle returns at your dept. store.)
Additionally, the casserole has a cheap phenolic (plastic) handle on the top cover, which the manual says are "oven safe" ONLY up to 350 F temperature. This makes no sense, when recipes may call for 350-400 degree temperatures! A 350 degree handle is just as hot to the touch, be it made of cheap plastic or cast iron. Batali's cast ironware handles are good to 500 degrees, Le Creuset's handles are good to 450 degrees, Rachael's cheap plastic handle will be melted slime, long before then at just 350 degrees!
Quite a few bakers know that oven temps may vary from 50-75 degrees from what is "set", at times! While using plastic handles saves a small expense for Rachael, it may limit oven temp setting to 300-325 for some, to put in a margin of safety, to avoid lid handle meltdown. It just gives one more thing to worry about while cooking-to not let the handle melt into a puddle of goo.
Rachael, get better quality control with the next batch, and please give matching cast iron handles instead of cheap plastic, and make it easy on customers!
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
I love this pot, June 10, 2007
This review is from: Rachael Ray 3-1/2-Quart Cast-Iron Covered Oval Casserole, Orange (Kitchen)
I love this pot. I have made everything from soups, chowders,roasts, sauces, etc. It has even heat and is so easy to clean. No scrubbing is needed. Just soak for a few minutes and thats it. The only problem I have had is that the inside bottom is quite stained but I think it's because I use it so often cooking with red wines, etc.
It is the perfect size to cook for 4-6 people.
I have used this both for stovetop and oven. I say one review where it was said they were afraid of the handle. I've had the oven to 350 and it's fine. I use this more than any of my other pans and keep it right on my stove. Attractive looking. I would buy more of these pans.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No