Kitchen

[NYCMOM]

Hello Everyone, 

I am in the shopping for my first Pot - finially decided I need to do this.  My stainless steel ones are not cutting it anymore.  I need an all-around pot with good heat distrubution for making stews, soups, meats, maybe a bread loaf.  I would like to leave it out as I have no cabinet space.  Any suggestions we are a family of 4.  And does anyone know if there will be a TSV for Le Creuset soon? 

Thank you All !  

[Toot1920]

@NYCMOM, it looks like there will be a Le Creuset TSV on September 21st. Doesn't say what if will be. My advice would be to check the outlet stores if you have one nearby. Sometimes you can find them at TJ Maxx, Marshall's, or Home Goods. You can also call an outlet store to see what they have and the prices, especially if there's a sale. If you're after a certain color, you might not find it on a sale price. I think that a good place to start is a 4 or 5 quart Dutch Oven. You can't add more to a smaller pot. 

[TheMemphisVette]

2 for 1

skillet is lid for pot when needed

nice size for stove top or oven baking

good price

https://www.qvc.com/le-creuset-cast-iron-375-qt-saucepan-%26-95-skillet.product.K99453.html?sc=navli... 

[spumoni99]

@TheMemphisVetteThat link is for denim and co clothing.

[sunshine45]

for a first time purchase, family of four, i definitely would not go any less than something in 5 quarts if you are going to purchase a dutch oven.

the lidded oval casserole is also a nice one to start with.

[faeriemoon]

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@sunshine45 wrote:

for a first time purchase, family of four, i definitely would not go any less than something in 5 quarts if you are going to purchase a dutch oven.

the lidded oval casserole is also a nice one to start with.

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Completely agree.  I also think you should not get it from the Q if they are offering it with a glass lid.  Glass lids have their place I suppose, but I think a 5 qt round Dutch oven with the enamelled lid is an excellent first purchase for your family.  Shop around, including the LC website.  Often retiring colors go on sale.

[wagirl]

I would go to a kitchen shop or to a dept store to look at them first and handle them. . This brand is incredibly heavy especially when filled . I found that they chipped easily and then the inside crazed and turned a dirty tan color after using them for awhile. I couldn't get that out no matter what I used. And just way to pricy per  one pan, IMO, of course. 

[spumoni99]

I have a copy cat brand from Sams, had it for years and it works great, it was under 40 dollars.

[PamBeesley]

My advice for your circumstances, a family of 4 for all of the things you mentioned you want to cook/bake is to purchase a 5 1/2 quart round dutch oven. 

I have several peices of LC and almost always use this peice. It must be popular, because I rarely see this size on sale. 

As far as color goes, if this is soemthing you are going to keep out on your stovetop (as I do) because its so beautiful, I recommend (if it is in your budget) to purchase a color that you LOVE. Not just what is on sale. I have had the same OYSTER on my stovetop for years, and have never regretted spending the money on this. 

[Sooner]

The 5 quart round for sure.  I have been buying them since 1992, and been to their main outlet 25 times. . . so I have a few.

The oval are lovely, but the round does it all!  I would also call a Le Creuset outlet and chat with them, like mid morning weekdays when they aren't so busy, before holiday rush.  I have never had one let me down and they have fabulous specials, and can steer you to perfect or 2nd quality--and personal shop for you!

The hard part is chosing the color and you MUST MUST learn how to cook in one or you will turn the heat up too high and scorch the bottom maybe.  Not to scare you here, but treat it well and it will last you a lifetime and longer, and provide countless good meals and good looks!