Baking & Roasting

Cast Iron vs Non-Stick - Which Suits Your Cooking Needs?

A cast iron Dutch oven, or French oven, is ideal for cooks who value depth of flavour and consistent heat. The Le Connoisseur range is crafted from premium cast iron, offering even heat distribution and excellent retention, perfect for slow-cooked recipes and oven-to-table serving. These cast iron casserole dishes are available in round and oval Dutch oven formats, combining performance with timeless presentation. Cast iron cookware requires simple care, including hand washing and occasional seasoning. You can learn more in our cast iron cookware guide or explore the full cast iron cookware collection.

For everyday convenience, non-stick casserole pots from STONE, NOOK, Granite and Rock offer a lighter alternative. These casserole dishes with lids heat quickly, are easy to clean and suit weeknight cooking where simplicity matters. Browse the full range of casserole pots and dishes to find the right fit for your kitchen.

The Right Roasting Pan For Your Kitchen

Choosing the right roasting pan depends on size, material and whether you need a roasting rack. A well-sized roasting pan should allow airflow around your meat, helping achieve even cooking and crisp results. Baccarat Gourmet carbon steel and stainless steel roasting pans with racks are designed for larger cuts, with the rack elevating meat for better heat circulation and fat drainage. A stainless steel roasting pan offers durability and easy cleaning, while carbon steel heats quickly for efficient roasting. Explore our full range of roasting pans and trays to complete your kitchen with reliable roasting performance.

FAQs

1. What is a Dutch oven and what is it used for?
A Dutch oven, also known as a French oven, is a heavy, lidded pot commonly made from cast iron or enamelled cast iron. It is designed for slow cooking methods such as braises, soups, stews and casseroles, where steady, even heat is essential. A cast iron Dutch oven also retains moisture, helping develop richer flavours compared to standard cookware.

2. What is the difference between a Dutch oven and a French oven?
The terms Dutch oven and French oven are often used interchangeably, but a French oven typically refers to an enamelled cast iron Dutch oven. This enamel coating makes the surface easier to clean and removes the need for seasoning. Baccarat’s Le Connoisseur range features French ovens that combine the performance of cast iron with a refined, low-maintenance finish.

3. Can you use a Dutch oven on the stovetop?
Yes, a cast iron Dutch oven is designed for both stovetop and oven use, making it one of the most versatile pieces of cookware. You can sear and brown ingredients on the stovetop, then transfer the Dutch oven pot directly into the oven for slow cooking. This flexibility is why Dutch ovens are a staple in many Australian kitchens.

4. What size roasting pan do I need?
The right roasting pan size depends on what you are cooking, but for a whole chicken or standard roast, a pan around 34cm is a reliable choice. Larger cuts of meat, such as lamb or turkey, are better suited to roasting pans between 39cm and 40cm to allow proper airflow. Choosing a roasting pan with a rack also improves cooking results by elevating the meat.

5. What is the benefit of a roasting rack?
A roasting rack lifts meat off the base of the roasting pan, allowing hot air to circulate evenly around it. This helps achieve crisp, even browning while preventing the underside from steaming in its own juices. A roasting rack also allows fats to drain into the pan, which can be used for sauces or gravy.

6. How do you care for an enamelled cast iron French oven?
To care for an enamelled cast iron French oven, wash it by hand using warm soapy water and avoid abrasive scrubbers that may damage the surface. Allow the pot to cool before cleaning to prevent thermal shock, which can crack the enamel. Unlike raw cast iron, an enamelled cast iron casserole dish does not require seasoning, making it easier to maintain for everyday use.