Le Creuset is an amazing brand, they produce quality cookware, but not everyone can afford all the equipment they provide, and your probably stuck between their stoneware, and cast iron cookware.
Well in this article, we will be covering the main differences between Le Creuset stoneware and Le Creuset cast iron, so you know exactly which one you need.
Brief History
Le Creuset is the name of a cookware brand for those people who love colorful pots and pans. It was founded in Fresnoy-le-Grand, Aisne France by Armand Desaegher and Octave Aubecq and since the year 1925 when it was founded, Le Creuset has been well-known as the colorful French cookware companion in the kitchen all across the globe.
The first cookware that they had was utilitarian having a black or dull gray but because of continued innovation on the color and designs, their operation expanded, product range, and global reach continued growing and expanding. Today, Le Creuset has been a renowned cookware brand internationally with a product range that has various categories like stainless steel, cast iron, nonstick, stoneware, dinnerware, wine accessories, and more.
Their kitchen cookware is pure made of ceramics using clay and sand quartz as the two main components. Their legacy of having the finest quality and craftsmanship continues up to the present and that’s the reason why they are loved by many people.
So the question some people want to know is which is better to use Le Creuset Cast Iron or Le Creuset Stoneware? So let’s find out because this time I will share with you some important info about Le Creuset stoneware vs cast iron.
Le Creuset Cast Iron & Enameled Cast Iron
If you are passionate about searing, Le Creuset cast iron is the best cookware to use because the bottom of the pot will not burn up and it can tolerate the extreme temperatures needed for searing. But it’s heat tolerance doesn’t just make it good for searing, it’s also great for frying.
Le Creuset also produce enameled cast iron, these pots are designed with a porcelain surface that won’t react with acidic food items like tomatoes, pickles, berries, and chutneys unlike regular cast iron. This makes their cast-iron range versatile, suitable for a variety of dishes, and convenient to use. These are good kitchen investments as they are built to last for years and more years.
If you need to choose one, then it really comes down to the recipes you cook. Cast iron will be better for those who love meat and cook lots of it, where enameled cast iron is more suitable for braising and simmering.
Le Creuset Cast Iron Cookware Advantages:
- Best cookware when it comes to heat distribution. This can lead to the best cooking results because it distributes the heat evenly.
- It requires little oil when you cook which is a healthy way of cooking.
- Cast-iron porcelain coated cookware is non-sticky which means you don’t need to season it like regular cast iron for a non-stick surface.
- It can go from the stovetop to the oven.
- It is best for heat retention.
- You can use any type of utensils with it at the same time like silicone, metal, or wood.
Stoneware
Le Creuset stoneware makes roasting, baking, or serving at the table to become more delightful. This stoneware range is handcrafted and it only means every pot and pan is extremely unique.
These stoneware products are resistant to scratching and chipping. The good thing about using stoneware is you can use this if you want to store food in the fridge. This is good for baking banana bread and for making lasagna. This kitchen cookware will not absorb the odor and flavor.
The stoneware range has also mugs that can be used in microwave ovens, dishwashers, freezers, and fridges. It has great heat distribution and retention and makes sure that the food is cooked and uniformly brown to perfection.
Stoneware is dishwasher safe and scratch-resistant. The colorful glaze is non-sticky for easy cleanup and it resists stains.
Their Differences: Their Uses and Product Range
Cast iron is great for high heat recipes such as searing stakes, or frying foods. While stoneware is good choice cookware for baking or recipes like quiches or casseroles. Stoneware sets have special features like stone lids and handles which makes them perfect for staying in an oven even if the temperature is high.
Pieces of Advice Before Using Cast Iron and Stoneware
Each piece of their high-quality cookware is designed for versatility and is easy to use. Before using your purchase Le Creuset Cast Iron and Stoneware especially if it’s your first time using it, please read these simple pieces of advice and guidelines.
Cast Iron
- First, remove all packaging and labels before using it. Wash the pan in a hot water and clean with a dishwashing liquid soap, then rinse and dry it well.
- You can use cast iron cookware in all heat sources like gas, ceramic glass, induction, electric solid plate or radiant ring, coal, oil, or wood. When using a glass-top stove, lift the pan always when moving and never slide it as this may cause damage to the stovetop or the base of the pan. Always match the pan’s base size to the stovetop heat zone for you to maximize efficiency and to prevent the pan to overheat.
- When cooking, allow the pan to heat gradually for efficient cooking results. Once it is hot, all cooking can be done on a lower setting.
- For boiling water, vegetables, or pasta, or for reducing the consistency of sauces or stocks, high heat temperatures should only be used this time.
- Do not leave the pan unattended and do not allow the pan to boil dry as this can damage the enamel.
- The maximum oil level must not exceed 1/3 full for deep frying. This depth will allow enough height above the oil for it to rise once the food is added.
- For safety purposes, an oil frying thermometer must be used and a lid must be available always in case of overheating.
- The enamel surface is not ideal for dry cooking with grills exception.
- For correct searing and grilling, the cooking surface must be sufficiently hot before cooking begins.
- Always use a dry thick cloth or mitts when lifting because the handle, stainless steel knobs, and phenolic knobs will become hot when it is used.
- Cool a hot pan first for a few minutes before washing it with water. Do not plunge an immediately hot pan into the cold water.
- Store pans in an airy space away from steam and while they are still damp, never store the pan.
- Check and maintain regularly the tightness of all handles and knobs.
Stoneware
- Stoneware is safe for use in a microwave, refrigerator, freezer, dishwasher, oven, and even under the grill at a minimum distance of 6.5 centimeters from the heating element.
- For first use, remove the label first and wash it well. Rinse it and dry it thoroughly.
- Don’t use any Stoneware piece on the stove or any direct heat source such as flames.
- For lifting, use oven gloves at all times.
- When using under the grill, allow a gap of no less than 6.5 centimeters between the heat source and the top of the dish.
- Handles can become hotter during long hours of microwave use, especially if the handles have plastic wrap being enclosed. You need to just cover the open top of the dish and just leave the handles being exposed.
- When you have a frozen dish, do not place it in a pre-heated oven. Place the frozen dish first in a cold oven and set the temperature right and allow the two to heat together.
- If you clean the dish, cool it first for a few minutes before washing and drying and never leave a dish to fully immersed in the water. Wash in the normal way using a sponge or plastic brush.
After knowing all those info and uses of Le Creuset stoneware vs Cast Iron, which of the two do you think is the best? Well, the two have their positive uses and they are important for you to cook your important dish. So choose, buy and use the two cookware instead because there are different competitive cookware brands in the market but Le Creuset is the best and tested cookware brand of them all. Their innovative designs and product range continues and they are always true to their mission and vision. Put some colors to your meals and savor lasting memories with your family and friends by using the kitchen cookware of Le Creuset. Their pots and pans will add flavor to your shared stories and laughter while you are having bonding with your loved ones. So what are you waiting for, go to the nearest store of Le Creuset or shop and order online before stocks will run out of supply.
