In addition to size differences, Dutch ovens are available in a variety of materials, such as cast iron, aluminum, and ceramic.  Generally speaking, cast iron pots are the main ones. Cast iron Dutch ovens are known for their excellent heat retention and durability, making them ideal for long, slow cooking.  

    Cast iron Dutch ovens have been a staple in the kitchen for centuries, and for good reason.  The material a Dutch oven is made of plays a vital role in its use and functionality.  When it comes to Dutch ovens, cast iron is the material of choice for many home cooks and professional chefs alike.

“There are a few things to consider when you’re buying cookware, including how you cook, durability, and price,” says Lance Nitahara, an assistant professor at the Culinary Institute of America (CIA) in Hyde Park, N.Y. “On the low end of the price scale are nonstick and cast iron; copper is on the high end. But each does a different thing.”

Below, you’ll find advice on how to choose the right frying pan for how you cook, plus highlights of top-performing pans from CR’s tests, listed alphabetically and not by rank. You can see how all the pans we test perform in our frying pan ratings and learn more about the different types of pans in our cookware buying guide.

    For oyster lovers, a cast iron oyster grill pan is a must-have.  The individual indentations hold the oysters in place, allowing them to cook with their own juices and absorb the smoky flavor from the grill.  Cast iron oyster grill pan this method of grilling oysters brings out the natural saltiness of the oysters and adds a pleasant charred flavor.

Skillets and sauté pans appear very similar, but the main difference lies in their shape.

 One of the main advantages of enameled cast iron cookware is its ability to evenly distribute heat.  This ensures food cooks consistently and prevents hot spots from causing uneven cooking.  Enamel coating also makes cookware easy to clean and maintain because it resists staining and does not require the same degree of seasoning as traditional cast iron.

 Enamel pots are a timeless and versatile addition to any kitchen.  These enamel pots not only provide cooking functionality but also add a pop of color and style to your cooking space.  Whether you're an experienced cook or just starting out in the kitchen, enamel pots are a must-have for cooking enthusiasts.

French skillets are perfect for cooking steaks and other meats that require high temperature and char.

Home Cooking: Black cast iron griddles and grill pans are popular in home kitchens, offering a convenient and effective way to achieve professional-quality searing, grilling, and cooking results. They are suitable for a variety of cooking techniques and are easy to maintain.

    Another important piece of enamel cookware is the Enamel Fondue Set.  Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just want to enjoy a cozy evening, a Enamel Fondue Set is a fun and interactive way to dine.  The enamel coating not only adds a pop of color to your table, but it also provides a non-stick surface for easy soaking and cleaning.

Even big manufacturers such as Cuisinart have shifted much of their skillet production to China. One approach to finding out where a skillet came from is to look underneath.

Benefits of Sizzling Steak Plates and Platters:

Enamel Cookware Set Advantage

Lightweight Enameled Cast Iron Cookware