Le Creuset is one of the most popular names in most households. Enthusiasts have recognized the high quality of the casseroles and cast iron pans since the early 1920s. The Le Creuset Doufeu has an appealing appearance and is specially used for the Doufeu cooking method. This method involved the use of ice or cold water on the lid to enhance condensation inside the pan allowing more water to settle inside.
The main aim of this cooking method is to increase the flavor of your meals and ensure that cooked meals are tender. This is a detailed review that details the specifications that make the Le Creuset a must-have in all kitchens.
Material
The Le Creuset Doufeu is made using enameled cast iron. This material is affordable and thick enough to enhance the even distribution of heat to the food inside the Doufeu. That said, a Doufeu Dutch oven works perfectly when used on a circular burner. To ensure that the heat spreads evenly and does not allow any cold spots, it is advisable to preheat the oven before you use it.
Design
The Doufeu pot has an amazing design that allows you to prepare meals that require low and constant heat. The name Doufeu means gentle heat. Its unique design features a concave lead. The design is meant to allow you to add ice on top. This will increase condensation and improve the meal you are preparing. The water, when heated, will rise to the lid as steam. Since the lid will be cold, it will cool the steam, which will in turn form droplets on the lid. The lead is dimpled underneath. Therefore, the condensed water will flow back into the pot easily. This process works similarly to a pressure cooker. Instead of preventing the steam from escaping, it cools it down, returning it to the pot.
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The Handles
The handles on a Doufeu Dutch oven have heat-resistant plastic. The plastic parts are dishwasher safe and can be used in an oven. However, it is important to note that temperatures higher than 450 degrees Fahrenheit will mess up the plastic. When using the Doufeu in an oven, you should check to make sure that the handles do not touch the sides of the oven. These areas have higher temperatures than the rest of the oven. This temperature would definitely burn the plastic.
Some of the products, however, have metal handles. You can use a pot with metal handles on an oven or under a broiler. Regardless, the temperature should not exceed 450 degrees Fahrenheit. When cooking, the handles get extremely hot. For that reason, it is highly advisable to use heat-resistance mitts when handling these parts.
The Base
The base of the Le Creuset Doufeu oven has a smooth finish that is applied to each piece of their products. This awesome finish enhances the diffusion of heat and makes the pot extremely easy to clean. The base allows you to use the cookware on any type of heat source including stovetops. One of the best ways to maintain the quality of this base is to always lift it when placing it on the burner or when taking it off. Dragging, knocking, or dropping it on a hard surface would reduce the base’s integrity.
The Manufacturing Process
The Le Creuset manufacturing process is meant to ensure perfect quality in all pieces before they are shipped off to the market.
First, there is the melting of the raw materials inside a Creuset, which is a large vessel shaped like a cauldron. The raw materials are heated at temperatures above 2000 degrees Fahrenheit.
A sand casting is used for the shaping and cooling process. The molten iron goes into the mold after which it is removed when cooled. The mold only serves one use and is destroyed, ensuring that each piece is unique.
The cast-iron pot goes through scrutiny and is checked for imperfections. The burrs and rough edges go through a process known as fettling and are removed. Before enameling starts, each piece will be blasted by small metal pellets. It will create a uniform surface.
The first coat of enamel is added to all sides of the pot and placed in an oven at a temperature of 1600 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the grey color seen at the oven’s lip.
Each of the items is sprayed with additional enamel coats. The first coat is internal and the bright color is sprayed on the outside. The pieces are then returned to the oven at a temperature of 1450 degrees Fahrenheit. The process ensures that the enamel is embodied in the cast iron, which increases resistance to damage during use.
There is a final inspection of the product before it is packed and released to the market.
Also, Read:
- Difference Between Cast Iron And Stainless Steel Cookware
- Matfer Bourgeat Black Steel Frying Pan Review
Proper Use
Before you use the Doufeu pot, you should remove all the packaging and labels. Use hot and soapy water to wash it and rinse it thoroughly. You can use gas, induction, radiant ring, or any heat source to cook with a Le Creuset Doufeu pot.
To increase efficiency, you should match the size of the base to the stovetop’s heat zone. It will also prevent overheating of the sides or damage to the handles.
You will realize the best results if you use low or medium heat. These settings are ideal for searing or frying. After preheating the pot, continue cooking using the lower settings. You can use high temperatures for boiling or reducing the consistency of sauces.
Pros And Cons
Pros
- + High-quality heavy gauge pot for braising and simmering
- + Made of enameled cast iron distributes heat so well
- + Lifetime Warranty
- + A great design for retaining liquid.
Cons
- – Heavy, even when empty
- – Very expensive.
Conclusion
Le Creuset Doufeu is one of the most amazing cookware in kitchens. You can find one from a range of different sizes and colors. Simply find one that suits your need and enjoy preparing the most amazing meals.
Feel free to share your observation with me in the comments section!
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