Lodge Dutch
The word “easy” is used in hundreds of reviews of this Dutch oven from Lodge, and dozens of five-star reviewers say that it’s particularly excellent for making no-knead bread, like one who says, “This beautiful little cast-iron pot is perfect for making 7-inch artisan ‘no-knead loaves of bread.’ The food is so crusty and chewy. Using parchment paper, I never need to wash the cast-iron Dutch oven.” Other reviewers favorably compare this cast-iron Dutch oven to those from pricier Dutch ovens, including one who writes, “As a woman who bought the first Le Creuset her friends had ever seen, over 30 years ago, I must say that while they are v-e-r-y pretty and in far more colors than were out back in the early ’80s, nothing will ever replace a good old cast-iron skillet. You could buy an entire set of genuine Lodge cast-iron for the price of one large Le Creuset Dutch Oven! Neither set can make you a better cook — but one will make you a smarter shopper.”
Most reviewers agree this Lodge Dutch oven lasts, too, as long as you take care of it properly. One reviewer bought this Dutch oven two years ago, and they admit, “In the beginning, I wondered if it was the right choice, as in the beginning I had to build up the seasoning a bit and you also have to get used to the weight of the pan and the hot handle.” But they continue, “I make amazing eggs with a little oil/butter on a low heat … Meanwhile, I have been tough on other 3 Tefal pans, which don’t last. This pan is amazing if you love it in the right way. Don’t get upset if, in the beginning, you don’t understand him right away! The oven holds up over the years as long as you’re aware of how to properly care for cast-iron.”