The Best Tools & Supplies I Actually Use for Dutch Oven Bakes & Stews
When I first dove into the world of Dutch oven cooking, I was overwhelmed by the sheer number of tools and gadgets available. I quickly learned that while some tools look fancy and promising, only a select few are truly essential. Over the years, I've gathered a collection of tools that I actually use and love, and today, I want to share them with you. Whether you're baking a crusty loaf of bread or simmering a hearty stew, these tools will improve your Dutch oven experience.
1. Your Trusty Dutch Oven
Let’s start with the star of the show: the Dutch oven itself. I own a few, but my absolute favorite is a 6-quart enameled cast iron Dutch oven. It’s the perfect size for most recipes, and I love how evenly it distributes heat.
My Pick: Le Creuset 6-Quart Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven Price: Approximately $360 Why I Love It: The color options are beautiful, but more importantly, it’s durable and can go from stovetop to oven with ease. Plus, it’s easy to clean!
2. A Sturdy Wooden Spoon
There’s something about stirring a pot with a wooden spoon that just feels right. I’ve tried silicone and metal, but nothing beats a good ol’ wooden spoon for stirring stews and sauces.
My Pick: OXO Good Grips Wooden Spoon Price: Around $10 Why I Love It: It’s sturdy, heat-resistant, and has a comfortable grip. Plus, it doesn’t scratch my beloved Dutch oven.
3. A Cast Iron Lid Lifter
If you’re cooking over an open flame or in the coals, you’ll need a way to lift the lid without burning your hands. A lid lifter makes this task a breeze.
My Pick: Lodge Cast Iron Lid Lifter Price: About $15 Why I Love It: It’s lightweight and easy to use, making it a must-have for campfire cooking.
4. A Reliable Thermometer
When it comes to cooking meat in a Dutch oven, a good thermometer is essential. I used to guess the doneness of my meats, but now I rely on my trusty instant-read thermometer.
My Pick: ThermoWorks Thermapen Mk4 Price: Approximately $99 Why I Love It: It gives me an accurate read in seconds. No more overcooked or undercooked meat for me!
5. A Silicone Spatula
A good spatula is essential for scraping the sides of your Dutch oven, especially when making sauces or gravies.
My Pick: OXO Good Grips Silicone Spatula Price: $15 Why I Love It: It’s heat-resistant, flexible, and doesn’t scratch the enamel; plus, it’s dishwasher safe!
6. A Good Quality Trivet
If you’re serving your Dutch oven directly at the table (which I highly recommend for the lovely presentation), a trivet is essential to protect your dining surface.
My Pick: RSVP International Marble Trivet Price: About $25 Why I Love It: It’s both functional and beautiful, adding an elegant touch to the table.
7. Oven Gloves
Handling a hot Dutch oven requires proper gloves. I've learned this the hard way with burns that left me swearing off cooking—never again!
My Pick: Ooni Pizza Oven Gloves Price: Around $25 Why I Love It: These gloves are heat-resistant, flexible, and allow for a good grip.
8. A Good Knife
Chopping ingredients efficiently can make or break your cooking experience. A sharp, reliable knife is an essential kitchen tool that I can't do without.
My Pick: Victorinox Swiss Army Chef's Knife Price: Approximately $40 Why I Love It: It’s lightweight, super sharp, and perfect for both small and large chopping tasks.
9. A Heavy-Duty Ladle
When it comes to serving up stews or soups, a ladle is a must-have. I’ve learned that a sturdy ladle makes dishing out portions much easier.
My Pick: Norpro Stainless Steel Ladle Price: Around $12 Why I Love It: It feels solid in my hand and has a generous bowl that holds plenty of soup or stew.
10. Cast Iron Cleaner
Keeping my Dutch oven clean is important, but I’ve learned that not all cleaners are created equal. A good cast iron cleaner will help maintain the seasoning and integrity of the pot.
My Pick: Cast Iron Cleaner Scrub Brush Price: About $10 Why I Love It: It’s gentle yet effective, ensuring my Dutch oven lasts for generations.
My Dutch Oven Essentials at a Glance
| Tool | Price | Why I Love It |
|---|---|---|
| Le Creuset Dutch Oven | $360 | Durable, beautiful, and versatile. |
| Wooden Spoon | $10 | Sturdy and heat-resistant. |
| Cast Iron Lid Lifter | $15 | Lightweight and easy to handle. |
| Instant-Read Thermometer | $99 | Accurate and quick readings. |
| Silicone Spatula | $15 | Flexible and non-scratch. |
| Marble Trivet | $25 | Functional and elegant. |
| Oven Gloves | $25 | Heat-resistant and flexible. |
| Chef's Knife | $40 | Sharp and lightweight. |
| Stainless Steel Ladle | $12 | Solid and generous bowl. |
| Cast Iron Cleaner | $10 | Gentle yet effective. |