( 23 reviews )
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Posted: Aug 10 2009
From what you read at the Le Creuset website, you would think there must be 1000 QC steps ensuring a perfect product before the product ships, but in my narrow experience the price does not absolutely justify the quality. Let me explain. My first, first quality 5.5 quart French oven was received (not from Amazon.com) with a VERY warped lid. I requested, and received the OK from Le Creuset USA to return the oven for exchange, they issued a call tag, and 3 1/2 weeks after I shipped the defective oven I received its replacement. The new oven's lid seems to be OK, but there is a small round discolored spot on the top of the lid, red over-spray inside the pot, discolored specks fused in the tan enamel, and the overall enamel on the bottom does not have a consistent texture (heavy toward the center). Seem picky?, maybe. But for a first quality $200+ enamel cast iron pot with such a self vaunted reputation for flawless quality, I expect more and don't want to have to use the warranty again for what seems like a pot that should have been marked "seconds". I can only hope what I now have will not effect the integrity of the enamel with use. I'm pleased that the warranty does seem to be honored; just the same I wish better QC could be used so that the hype lives up to the reality. After my recent experience, I believe I would only buy seconds sight unseen, not first quality. Not sure if 3 weeks and 3 days is the norm for warranty service, but I can tell you it would be nice if it could be expedited a bit if it is the norm. I write what I say to be constructive, and do not want to appear negative for what might seem negativity sake. I will say properly made Le Creuset French ovens work very well, are a joy to use, and make me a better cook. If you get a good one, you will love it and the results you receive.
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Posted: Aug 7 2009
Don't waste your money on a dutch oven that is "cheaper." This is really worth every penny you pay. I've tried the Lodge brand version of this, sure it's cheaper, but it's also made in China (yuck) and HUGE - in a wasted space kind of way (I was shocked by the lodge size when comparing it to this and it's only a 1/2qt size in capacity larger). This dutch oven for me is the perfect size and not nearly as heavy as I thought it was going to be. I also really love the cherry red color, don't settle for less than the best - this is dishwasher safe, can't say that for the other one. I'll be returning my lodge dutch oven and keeping Le Creuset for life!
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Posted: May 24 2009
I bought this brand after Steve Sando recommended it in his book Heirloom Beans. As I've replaced meat with beans in my diet, I needed cookware that would help me cook beans in a way that would not make me miss meat. I use my Le Creuset for making a variety of bean dishes that require slow cooking. After two dozen recipes, I haven't failed a dish yet. I partly attribute this to the even heat of this very heavy, sturdy French Oven. So far, my Le Creuset has been the most important purchase for my kitchen needs. Highly recommended.
