Le Creuset sits up there as one of the main premium brands for cooking equipment. I wanted to find the cheapest Le Creuset Dutch oven. I found one that is affordable, but it comes with a caveat.
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Cheapest Le Creuset: Signature Oval Dutch Oven
The cheapest Dutch oven is Le Creuset’s Signature oval Dutch oven. Unfortunately, in the realm of Le Creuset’s products, the word ‘cheap’ doesn’t exactly apply. This particular item has just a 1-quart capacity and it costs over $150.
Don’t let the small size deter you, though. A 1-quart capacity Dutch oven is exactly the right size for one person. So whether you’re buying this for a single friend or a son or daughter about to leave home for university, it’s a high-quality Dutch oven that they’ll be eternally grateful for.
Full Review
Le Creuset Dutch ovens are famed for their high-quality and high prices to match. In fact, they are some of the most expensive single-item pieces of cookware out there. A quick search on Amazon shows most products with a minimum price of $300.
The single exception to that particular price range is found in the 1-quart size Signature oven. (One quart is around 945 ml). At this size, it’s the very definition of a single portion cooking vessel. But is it worth the money? Here are some pros and cons.
Pros
✅ Large handles: these provide excellent grip, even if you’re using oven mitts.
✅Durable: the company is famed for its long-lasting products. The exterior enamel is highly resistant to extremes of heat and chemical changes.
✅Beautiful colors: whatever color you choose, Le Creuset products always excel with eye-catching colors that don’t fade over time, and this is no exception.
✅Easy to clean: the enamel cast iron is incredibly easy to clean, saving time and hassle.
✅Good for portion control: you can see the small size as a positive or negative. On the positive side, it’s great for portion control!
✅Great for students or single people: the versatility of Dutch ovens is such that this small size would make a great kitchen gift for students or single people.
Cons
❌ Very Oval: I know it says oval in the description but I was slightly surprised by just how oval it is. Would prefer a more circular shape.
❌ Tiny: it really is pretty useless for a couple or a family.
What do you use a Dutch oven for?
Dutch ovens are very versatile pieces of cookware suitable for cooking dishes relying on moisture, such as stews, sauces, soups, curries, and braises.
Why is cooking in a Dutch oven better?
Dutch ovens are better because they excel at low and slow cooking. Due to their versatility, a single piece of gear can replace a slow cooker, stockpot, and deep fryer. cast iron in particular provides superb heat distribution.
Dutch ovens and Thai food?
For cooking Thai food, Dutch ovens work quite well for two main types of Thai dishes: curries and noodle soups. You can also do some really delicious braised Thai ribs, chicken, and more.
Closing Thoughts
It might be the most affordable Le Creuset Dutch oven, although I’m happy to be corrected. The use case for actually buying it is pretty limited though to people who live on their own and only ever cook for one person. If that’s not you, you’re better off checking out several other larger Dutch ovens, whether made by Le Creuset or another company. And don’t forget to check out my other cookware recommendations for Thai food.