A Dutch oven is a heavy duty cooking pot with a close fitting lid. The most commonly seen Dutch ovens are made of cast iron. Cast iron Dutch oven cookware has been in use for centuries in many different parts of the world.

Despite the availability of all kinds of fancy modern cookware, Dutch ovens remains favorites of both home cooks and celebrity chefs. When properly seasoned cast iron makes a better nonstick cooking surface than many other materials. It distributes heat evenly and can be used on top of the stove and in the oven, too. It is inexpensive and very durable. It is not unusual to find Dutch ovens still in use today that have been passed down from grandmothers and great-grandmothers.

Cast iron Dutch oven cookware is always a popular item in antique shops and vintage goods dealers. One reason for this is that an old Dutch oven will have been well seasoned over many years of use. Some modern cooks are intimidated by the seasoning process and there is even one manufacturer who sells pre-seasoned Dutch ovens and other cast iron ware.

Seasoning a brand new Dutch oven is actually not very difficult. The pan should be washed and dried while the stove is preheating to 350 degrees. Warm the oven gently on low heat on the stovetop. Spread a tablespoonful of canola, corn or other plain unflavored oil over the inside surface of the Dutch oven with a basting brush. It should be completely covered. If there is any excess oil, remove it before putting the Dutch oven in the heated stove. Leave it to bake for one hour, then turn off the heat and let it cool off as the stove does.

Seasoning will cause the Dutch oven to take on an appealing dark, smooth look that will be enhanced the more you use it. Clean it with hot water and a non-scratch scouring pad and the seasoning will remain in good condition.

Cast iron Dutch oven cookware maintains an even heat over a range of temperatures. This is why they are excellent for any recipe that calls for browning meat over high heat, then deglazing the pan and adding liquid to make a braise. Soups, stews, and casseroles are other favorite Dutch oven recipes.

There is now enameled cast iron Dutch oven cookware available. Some cooks prefer these because they are easy to clean. No seasoning is necessary and the Dutch oven can be placed in the dishwasher. Also, because of the enamel coating they are not reactive with acidic foods such as tomatoes.

When properly cared for, the humble Dutch oven will provide good service for years to come.