Cast iron dutch ovens > Info > Seasoned dutch ovens

Seasoned dutch ovens

Seasoned dutch ovens are usually a bit more expensive than your standard dutch ovens, and for that reason you should know why you're paying more.  For many of you, seasoned dutch ovens is a great choice.  For others, it's entirely unnecessary.  Which group do you fall into?  Let's find out.

The main advantage to seasoned dutch ovens is that they're already seasoned for you.  But what does that mean?  What effort is it saving you, exactly?  Seasoning your dutch oven is a time consuming process where you'll be heating your dutch oven and making it into a lovely, non-stick surface that adds a bit of flavor to each meal.  It can take anywhere from about an hour to three hours, but you won't always be working during this time.

Buying a seasoned dutch oven means that you don't get to control which flavor is used, but that's hardly a sacrifice compared to the time.  What you have to add up is the time, the extra money you're spending, and the lack of control you have over the flavor with seasoned dutch ovens.  Also, remember, when you're seasoning your own dutch ovens they're easier to re-season, but also get worn down more readily by acidic foods.  On the other hand, seasoned dutch ovens don't wear down as easily, but can be very tricky to re-season.

Whatever you choose to go for, dutch oven cooking is definitely the right choice.  The food turns out better, the options are great, and you get a lot of advantages over standard cookware.  Good luck, and happy grilling!