Is Le Creuset enameled cast iron non stick?
Le Creuset enameled cast iron is not non stick, as in it does not have a coating. But when used correctly, the surface is practically non stick. Correct use means making sure the surface is pre-heated before you put food on it, and using plenty of butter or oil.
Which is better: cast iron or enameled cast iron?
The answer really depends on what you personally prefer. The difference between the two is that enameled cast iron has an enamel coating, while cast iron does not. This enameled coating means you don’t have to season it, like you do with cast iron. The main benefit of enameled cast iron is that you do not get any excess iron absorption, and the enamel doesn’t react badly with acidic foods. The main benefit of cast iron is that the surface is durable and virtually non-stick.
Does enameled cast iron need to be seasoned?
No, enameled cast iron does not need to be seasoned, unlike regular cast iron. Seasoning is oil baked onto the surface of cast iron to prevent rusting while forming an easy to clean, non stick cooking surface. But enameled cast iron can be cleaned gently by hand, just as you would with stainless steel.
Is the enamel on Le Creuset safe?
Le Creuset enameled cast iron is safe. There is no risk of iron leach, since the cast iron does not touch the food. The enamel coating is also safe, as it has been tested and passes all of California Proposition 65 standards, which sets safe limits for lead and cadmium. According to California Proposition 65, lead has to be less than 0.1 micro grams per milliliter leached into a 4% acetic acid solution and cadmium has to be less than 0.049 micro grams per milliliter leached into a 4% acetic acid solution. Other independent tests have also found both the outside and inside of Le Creuset enameled cast iron to be safe from lead and cadmium.
However, I can not vouch for the safety of other brands of enameled cast iron.
Can you fry in enameled cast iron?
Yes, in fact, it’s a great choice for frying. The cast iron retains heat well for frying, and the light colored enameled interior makes it easy to see the doneness of your food. The heavy base is great for frying, and it cleans easier than stainless steel, which sometimes leaves rings of browned oil.
What can you not cook in enameled cast iron?
You can cook pretty much everything. The only thing I would personally be wary of is very sticky foods such as hash browns. Though I can cook eggs, and anything else, no problem. You don’t have to avoid using it for acidic foods as you do for regular cast iron.
Is Le Creuset enameled cast iron made in China?
Le Creuset enameled cast iron is not made in China. All the enameled cast iron pieces are made in the original foundry in France. However, most other Le Creuset pieces are made all over the world, including China. Check out my other article for more details about which Le Creuset pieces are made where.
Is Le Creuset enameled cast iron dishwasher safe?
Technically, yes, Le Creuset enameled cast iron is dishwasher safe, but it is not recommended. You can easily clean your enameled cast iron by hand with soapy water and a sponge. Do not use any metal scouring pads or abrasive cleansers, as the surface can chip or scratch. If you put your enameled cast iron in the dishwasher, it’s not ruined, but over time the edges which are bare cast iron can get corroded.
