Kitchen Gear: Staub Cast Enamel
Most home chefs might think of Le Creuset when they ponder enamel coated cast iron pots, and why shouldn't they? It is some of the best cookware you can buy. But what many people do not know is that there is a lower cost alternative that is just as good as Le Creuset. I am talking about Staub.
This Christmas, Santa Claus granted my wish for a cast-iron enamel coated cooking pot. When I received a Staub Blue Cocotte, I didn't know what to expect. My first reaction was that of fear; feat that this pot was a cheap knockoff found on the shelves of Tuesday Morning or the 99ยข store. Honestly, that was my ignorance since I didn't know any better.
Now after a number of uses, including this totally awesome batch of chili, I am sold on the quality of Staub.
Like Le Crueset, Staub is a French company. But the prices on the Staub Pots (aff)
The pots are cast iron, which we all know has great heating properties such as even heat distribution and extended heat retention. When the enamel coating is added, the value of these pots jump way up. The enamel gives the pot a non-stick property as well as protecting the food from reacting with the iron. Some food tastes good with iron, some does not. And acidic foods will not eat away at the enamel coating as they would on bare iron.
Combine all the above properties and you get a versatile piece of cookware that is able to go from stovetop to oven and back or directly onto the grill or smoker. Any soot or ash will wipe right off.
I have been nothing but pleased with Staub, and I thank Santa Claus very much for getting my letter and granting my Christmas wish. No more will I think of Le Creuset as the answer to the enamel pot question.