If you are considering purchasing a Dutch oven then you probably already appreciate how versatile and practical they are. The truth is that every kitchen should have one.

Of course, like many things, the Dutch oven is only as good as the manufacturer, that’s why you need to take your time when purchasing one of these ovens and make sure you get the right one for you.

Manufacture

Dutch ovens are an investment, they should last for years and the best way to ensure this is the case is to make sure you are buying a genuine product. That means thinking about the manufacturer first. There are several well-known brands, including this Crumble Dutch oven. If you choose a brand that is well-known and has earned a good reputation then you are off to a good start.

If you’re still not sure then speak to family and friends to see if any of them have experience with the Dutch oven you are considering. Failing that, you can look at social media and online forums to find what others are saying about specific Dutch ovens.

Remember, there will always be some negative comments, you can consider the oven good if most are positive.

Material

The original Dutch ovens were called braadpan and were made of cast brass. Using cast iron was a cheaper option that became mainstream in the early 18^th century. This is the preferred choice today.

However, if you are looking at cast iron it is best to go with the enamel coating. This simplifies the cleaning process and ensures an even distribution of heat across your food. A cast iron Dutch oven without enamel coating will need seasoning and the iron can influence food flavours.

It is also possible to get stainless steel Dutch ovens but these don’t generally have tight-fitting lids. The lightness of the material also makes it harder to have consistent heat.

Ceramic is also an option but it is more likely to shatter or crack due to dropping and extreme temperatures.

Size

If you’re looking to buy a Dutch oven then you need to know they come in a variety of sizes. Put simply, how many people do you usually cook for? Getting the right sized Dutch oven makes the process simpler and easier for you to control cooking time.

The Interior

Most people don’t think much about the interior of their Dutch oven but it’s worth considering. A light interior allows you to see the food better. This makes it easier to get the right texture and tenderness of your meat. Darker colours, such as black, are not easy to look into but they do generally look better.

In addition, a dark interior means you won’t see cracking and scratches in your Dutch oven, they normally appear after several uses.

Of course, the interior is affected by the exterior colour and there are plenty of colours to choose from.

Look At The Lid

A quick look at the lid is essential. If it has spikes of bumps then it is designed to catch steam and convert it back to water, keeping the dish moist and tender. It’s not an essential feature but it does help you make the best-tasting food.