Top positive review
5.0 out of 5 starsToo small... Too pricey... Just right.
Reviewed in the United States on December 11, 2017
I have all cast-iron, cast-iron with enameled exteriors, and fully enameled cast-iron cookware from Le Creuset. When it comes to cooking, cast-iron's heat conductivity, in my opinion, cannot be beat on any type of cooking surface; but Le Creuset can get really pricey for larger pots, so I opted for a different brand when I had purchased my initial braiser.
It was a 3 quart size and made by Lodge, but my son (the dishwasher of the family) demolished it by constantly leaving it "soaking" with metal utensils in the bottom of it, so over time the exposed cast-iron edges rusted, on top of the enameled surface getting nicked up. It was a good braiser, but I always wished it was larger when I prepared certain dishes in it.
I had been tirelessly searching for its replacement, and narrowed it down to this one. It arrived fairly quickly, and when I prepared our lamb roast for Thanksgiving, it didn't disappoint. It's very solid and well built. It was perfectly wide and deep enough (given its 5 quart size). I don't particularly care for the steel/metal finish on the handle instead of it being black, but it's doable. It was a fraction of the cost of a 5 qt. Le Creuset braiser, and it handles meals just as well, too. I love that it has the lighter finish on the interior and none of the enamel had any blemishes or imperfections upon arrival.
I have read other reviews during my search for enameled cast-iron braisers, where customers complain about their weight...
Well... It IS cast-iron, and the larger the pan, the heavier it is. So if you cannot handle a heavy pot or desire a light one, this pan is not for you.
Now that my son is older and has learned the value of things, I see this one lasting a lot longer than its predecessor, and I am not left wishing it was just a little bit larger when I am cooking, either.
