Posts tagged Dutch

Question : Enameled Dutch Oven vs Electric Slow Cooker?
Earlier I posted a question which was not clearly written. Now, I like to take the opportunity to post the question again.

What do you prefer? An enameled dutch oven or an electrical slow cooker. Both cookware are excellent in slow cooking, non-reactive toward foods, and relatively easy to clean. An enameled dutch oven allows a wider range of temperature variation, but it requires more attention, its temperature is not as easily controlled, and it is more expensive than an electric slow cooker. I think the most expensive slow cooker is the All-Clad one ($ 180?) and it costs no more than an average dutch oven, as Le Creuset French Oven can be >$ 300. (Yes, the Le Creuset ones called their the “French Oven”, but they are the same thing)

Please state your own personal preference and give a few reasons. I am not looking for someone to agree with me. I am just looking for some interesting opinions. Thank you for your time.
Mrs. Risley, very interesting points you have. Can you tell me why you prefer y our French Oven? Is it because you get to fine-tune it and so the food turns out the way you want it? Or it is because it give you a more even cooking surface? Just curious.
Toffy…. Hmm, now that you mentioned it, I really need to start a post on spa…. What the huck is wrong with you women! Ha ha ha. Just kidding, but seriously, I don’t get that spa thing.
all clad slow cooker

Best answer:

Answer by Christopher K
That really, for me, depends on what I’m preparing.

The “crock pot” or “electric slow cooker” can be great, if you do a LOT of unattended cooking, or you can not be in attendance while cooking.

For those that are “at home” more often than not, the Oven Method of using the Dutch (or Le Cruset’s “French Oven”) Oven does require a LOT more hands on approach.

I use both, but for different reasons and times:

Crock Pot is usually winter, and for longer periods than I would have to invest in standing around an oven and checking the contents every hour or so………

The Dutch Oven comes out when I want to make stocks, or things that I spend a lot more time with.

Each has it’s merits, but one VERY nice thing about a Dutch Oven, it’s NEVER going to go “belly up” electric wise……..Or during a power outage, if you have a gas stovetop……..

Christopher