How to care for your Le Creuset Cast Iron Products
Investing in a piece of Le Creuset cast iron cookware can be a daunting decision during your shopping experience. Then once you receive it, learning how to look after it can be just as bad! But fear not, we are here to provide you with a simple step-by-step guide to ensure you take care of your Le Creuset cast iron cookware the right way – in particular, the iconic casserole dish. If you look after your cookware, it will look after you and provide endless years of wonderful culinary experiences that can be passed down through the generations.
The beauty of a Le Creuset Cast Iron Casserole is its versatility- you can transfer from hob to oven then straight to the dining table for an immediate impression. Furthermore, the casserole dish can do so much more than just cooking casseroles, you can fry, boil, roast and even bake in them! The Le Creuset casserole dish will be your go-to cookware for every meal.
History of Le Creuset
In 1925, two Belgium industrialists met at a Brussels fair. One was an expert in casting and the other, a specialist in enamelling. Together they ‘cracked the code’ to enamelling cast iron and created the first working prototype, an enamelled cast iron cocotte (casserole dish). From there, Le Creuset was born and nearly 100 years later, we still use the very same design as the original prototype. The iconic volcanic orange colour that we know and love today was the first colour Le Creuset produced when it launched in 1925 and was inspired by the fiery orange of the molten iron used in the casting process.
So, you have received your very first Le Creuset Cast Iron Casserole – how do you look after it?
First things first. You need to remove all the packaging and labels. Now wash the pan in hot soapy water, then rinse and dry thoroughly. That’s it! No further preparation required – you’re ready to cook!
Cooking on a Stovetop
One of the great benefits of Le Creuset Cast Iron cookware is that it’s suitable for use on all hob types, including induction, but it’s important to remember to always lift the pan when moving it; never slide it, as this may cause damage to both the pan and the stovetop.
Enamelled cast iron should not be heated whilst dry – The only exception to this rule is when using the Le Creuset Cast Iron Grills, which can be heated when dry. Your choice of liquids, whether that be water or oil, should cover the base of the pan completely before heating begins.
A key note to remember when cooking with Le Creuset cast iron cookware is that a medium or low heat will provide the best cooking results. High heat should never be used to preheat a pan as this will cause food to burn or stick . In most cases, high heat temperatures should only be used for boiling water or reducing the consistency of sauces of stocks.
One of the things to think about, the pan’s base size must match the stovetop’s heat zone to prevent the pan sides from becoming overheated and causing damage to the handles.
The cast iron handles and lid knob will become hot during stovetop and oven use so always use oven mitts or a thick dry cloth when handling. Furthermore, always place hot cookware on a protected surface whether that’s a wooden board, trivet or a Le Creuset Silicone Cool Tool.
Tools & Utensils
We recommend using silicone, wooden or heat-resistant plastic utensils when cooking with Le Creuset as this will help prevent scratches and damage to the enamel. The Le Creuset Craft Utensil range is ideal as you can detach the silicone heads and place them in the dishwasher for easy cleaning. Metal utensils may be used, but require special care when handling. Do not knock metal utensils on the rim of the pan as this will cause damage to your cookware.
Cleaning
Once you have finished cooking with your Le Creuset Cast Iron Casserole, do not immediately plunge the hot pan into cold water. Although Le Creuset Cast Iron is designed to be one of the most durable on the market, thermal shock may still happen, resulting in loss of enamel or cracking. Always wait for a hot pan to cool completely before proceeding with cleaning.
If you have food residue remaining in the pan, fill with warm water and allow to soak for 15-20 minutes before washing. A brush or soft abrasive pads can be used to gently remove stubborn remains but please avoid using scourers or abrasive cleaners as this will damage the enamel.
Any light stains or marks caused by metal utensils can be removed with occasional use of the Le Creuset Cast Iron Cookware Cleaner.
All Le Creuset pans with integral cast iron, phenolic handles or stainless-steel knobs are dishwasher safe although constant dishwashing may leave to some dulling of the enamel finish. Please ensure that the cookware is thoroughly dry before storing.
Cast Iron pans with metal handles can be washed in the dishwasher, but this greatly reduces the development of a patina; as a result, grills and skillets will require seasoning more frequently. Pans with wooden handles are not dishwasher-safe.
So, there you have it! A whistle stop guide to looking after your Le Creuset Cast Iron Casserole Dish. If you’re still a little unsure whether Le Creuset cast iron cookware is right for you, Le Creuset guarantees its enamelled cast iron cookware for a lifetime, so if you do face any issues, there’s always the lifetime guarantee to fall back on, giving you peace of mind when purchasing.
If you do have any questions regarding Le Creuset Cast Iron cookware then please do not hesitate to drop us an email at customerservice@philipmorrisdirect.co.uk .