Calling all cooks :)

[indysteel]

I had a response to add to this thread that I didn't have time to post that basically echoes Oak's suggestion about enameled cast iron. Until a few years ago, I didn't do much cooking. Now I cook all the time, and my enamel dutch ovens are my most loved and most used pieces of cookware. They provide even cooking, are non-reactive when cooking with acids, go from stovetop to oven, and are easy to clean. The main thing that I don't use them for is roast chicken. For that, I used a heavy stainless roasting pan with a rack.

I don't have any Le Creuset because of their cost. I have two from Lodge and another from Tramontina, which Walmart sells (I normally avoid Walmart like the plague, but Cook's Illustrated gave it a good review so I beg for mercy). So far, they've all held up well.

As for electric roasters, they are a versatile tool. Just be warned that they are not good for browning. So, if you like crispy skin on your turkey or chicken, you might not be happy with the results.

[Catrin]

Indy - thanks for the comment about the Tramontina, I think that might have been what I saw at Meijers the other day but I could be mistaken. I will consider this along with my other options. I've never used enameled cookware so really hadn't considered it but it sounds like there is a lot in their favor. Thanks!

[indysteel]

Indy - thanks for the comment about the Tramontina, I think that might have been what I saw at Meijers the other day but I could be mistaken. I will consider this along with my other options. I've never used enameled cookware so really hadn't considered it but it sounds like there is a lot in their favor. Thanks!

I don't think Meier carries Tramontina, but there are a number of other brands out there so you may have seen something similar. Again, I'm no Walmart fan, but their prices on it are pretty good. I've gotten some good deals on Lodge at Amazon, too. Cooking.com often runs email specials, if you sign up for them. In any event, given what you've shared about what you're looking for, I'd look for 6.5-7.5 quart models. Perhaps they'll be big enough for your needs.

[Owlie]

Agreed on the enameled cast iron. Mom got a Le Creuset set as a wedding present and only recently dug them out. Some of the pieces are too heavy for her to lift, but there are smaller ones she uses all the time.

It's expensive, but they do go on sale every so often, and if you can find a Le Creuset outlet near you, you could always check them out. (I know there's one near Dayton/Cincy, but that's quite a drive.)

[Becky]

Check Marshalls/TJ Maxx/Home Goods too. I often find Le Creuset and other enameled cast iron pieces there.