Why We Love Cast Iron Casseroles

Cast iron casseroles are no stranger in the kitchen. It can be used in many ways, last forever with proper care, are almost indestructible, and unlike most things you have in the kitchen, cast iron cookware gets better with age.

Cast iron pots are also known for its superb quality, functionality and durability. This versatile cookware is perfect for stewing, roasting, searing, and braising. It absorbs and retains heat very well to keep food hot and works well on all cooktops including induction. What's more, modern cast-iron cookware comes coated in beautiful vitreous enamel and a myriad of striking, bold colours many have come to adore.

You'll find that various cast iron cookware brands such as Le Creuset, Staub, and Chasseur have taken centre-stage in many Australian households. Below are our top three favourite cast-iron casserole brands and what makes them a well-loved staple in the kitchen.

Le Creuset

Le Creuset is internationally recognised for making quality, world-class cookware. Established in 1925 from its foundry in Fresnoy le Grand, France, Le Creuset began producing its first porcelain enamelled cast-iron pots. While Le Creuset has incorporated advanced modern technology into its production process, there is still a strong initiative in maintaining traditional techniques. Let’s not forget Le Creuset’s range of bright retro colours with Volcanic orange as its trademark. Till today, Le Creuset's cast iron cookware is made through handcrafted techniques maintained from its original forging and manufacturing process.

What’s great about Le Creuset's cast iron cookware is its toughened double enamel coating that has a greater stain resistance making it easier to clean after use. The handles of the pot have been increased by 45% making it convenient to transfer from hob to oven to table even when wearing oven mitts. The knob has been replaced with stainless steel making the handle more durable, heat resistant and comfortable to grip.

Chasseur

Chasseur's cast iron cookware first started at the Invicta foundry in 1924 in Donchery, France. It is the French Champagne Ardenne region best known around the world for its food and wine. It has now expanded to different sectors such as culinary pottery, decoration, furniture, wood heating and even barbecues.

The beauty of Chasseur's cast-iron casserole is that it does all that a quality cast-iron cookware piece does, while being reasonably priced in comparison to Le Creuset and Staub. Most cast-iron casseroles are oven safe except the ones with wooden handles or plastic knobs. Chasseur’s stainless steel knobs on the cast-iron cookware make it suitable for use in the oven.

Staub

Staub's cast iron cookware marries traditional craftsmanship with modern technology. Originating from Alsace, France, Staub specialises in cast iron cookware ideal for both professional chefs and home cooks alike. Being one of the leading cast-iron cookware brands, famous restaurants around the globe value the high quality of Staub’s cookware till today.

We love Staub cast iron cocottes because its lid features unique under-spikes that collect moisture and bastes your food as it cooks. The black matte porous interior makes it hard-wearing and creates a non-stick coating over time. What's more, the cocotte requires no seasoning and it won't react to acidic foods.

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