Le Creuset Enameled Cast-Iron 5-Quart Buffet Casserole, Cherry Red

Product Description Inspired by traditional French braisers, which employ both wet and dry heat to break down and tenderize tough cuts of meat, this versatile buffet casserole comes in handy for a variety of culinary endeavors. Its gently curved sides, shallow profile, and wide, flat base allow for techniques such as poaching, searing, roasting, and browning. The buffet casserole measures approximately 13-2/5 by 16 by 5-4/5 inches and holds up to 5 quarts--perfect for preparing rice dishes or gratin potatoes for a large crowd. Made of heavy-duty cast iron, the cookware's colorful, long-lasting exterior enamel resists chipping and cracking, while its durable, nonreactive sand-colored interior enamel offers a smooth surface for cooking and an optimal palette for food presentation. As cast iron is unexcelled for even heat distribution and superior heat retention, and enamel is impervious to acids and odors, the unit browns and cooks food uniformly and gently without hot spots and can be used for marinating, cooking on the stovetop, or finishing in the oven. The casserole comes equipped with two cast-iron loop side handles to facilitate convenient transport, and its secure-fitting lid locks in heat, moisture, and flavor. The lid also comes fitted with a black phenolic knob that's oven-safe to 350 degrees F. Beautiful enough for the table yet durable enough to outlive its lifetime limited warranty, the cookware can be safely used on any stovetop, including induction, and should be hand washed for best results. Amazon.com This five-quart Le Creuset buffet casserole is individually sand-cast of rugged cast iron, then clad in two coats of hard, colorful enamel. The result? Cookware so durable it's covered by a lifetime warranty, and so attractive you'll proudly bring it to the table or buffet, where it'll stay hot indefinitely. Cast iron retains and distributes heat evenly, making this round pot with its tight-fitting lid and non-abrasive bottom excellent for braising, simmering, browning, or poaching on any type of stovetop burner. And, because the black phenolic lid knob is oven-safe to 400 degrees, the pot and lid can be used to bake a casserole whose cheesy crust can be browned under the broiler with the lid removed. You can also use the nonporous enameled pot for marinating meats and storing leftovers in the refrigerator. The buffet casserole measures 16-3/4 inches from one loop handle to the other, and comes in several bright, modern colors. The enamel interior resists cracking and staining and is best cared for when the contents are stirred with nylon, wood, or silicone utensils. It's also so smooth that food particles tend not to stick, making cleaning by hand or in the dishwasher a snap. Made in France, Le Creuset cast-iron cookware is guaranteed to be free of defects for the lifetime of the original owner, whether self-purchased or received as a gift. --Ann Bieri