Few kitchen items are nearer and dearer to my heart than the Dutch oven, and my favorite of the many I've tested is the chic and sturdy Staub cocotte. The enameled cast-iron pot is definitely an investment -- the 4-quart version is currently listed for $370 at Williams Sonoma -- but it's worth the money in my opinion.
So why do I fawn over my Dutch oven so much? Where to start...
It's one of the most versatile pots you can own. Cast iron retains heat as well as anything and distributes it evenly, making this a perfect vessel for slow and low braising or smaller roasts in the oven. The tough enamel coating is designed for easy release so cleanup is a breeze. The 4-quart cocotte will also come in handy for a slow Sunday sauce or simmering stew, and Staub's time-tested, quality construction will last for decades, if not longer.Â
And last but not least, this piece of cookware just looks good. I keep mine -- which I sadly paid retail for -- on display at all times. Using it is a pleasure, but even looking at it is a joy unto itself.Â
This size is perfect if you're mostly cooking for three or four. For larger batches of stew or Sunday meatballs, you might spring for the 7-quart. For more cooking-related discounts, here are our favorite meal kit deals and the best kitchen gifts.
