Lodge 5.68 litre / 6 quart Cast Iron/Porcelain Enamel Dutch Oven/Casserole Dish, Red

About Lodge - 100 Years and Still Cooking Originally established by Joseph Lodge in 1896 - and with over 118 years of experience - Lodge is renowned for producing the finest cast iron cookware in the world. The family-owned company, based in South Pittsburg (Tennessee), is the only remaining manufacturer of cast iron cookware in the USA. The business has survived two World Wars and the Great Depression and continues to prosper today due to its legacy of quality and dedication to improving manufacturing methods. The Evolution of Lodge Lodge’s legendary foundry has undergone several notable upgrades as the company has grown. In order to respond to increasing demand, it was converted from a hand-pour operation to an automated moulding process in 1950. This led to safer and more efficient manufacturing procedures. In 1992, with an emphasis on conservation, Lodge’s coal-fired cupola furnaces were replaced by an electro-magnetic induction melting system. With consumer demand beginning to exceed foundry capacity, Lodge recently completed a comprehensive expansion of its facilities that cost in excess of 30 million dollars. This included new melting and sand systems, an additional moulding line and enhanced seasoning capabilities. These developments have increased capacity by almost 50% and have ensured that Lodge’s foundry is now the most technologically-advanced in the world. Lodge Enamel - the Beauty of Porcelain In 2005 Lodge’s tradition of excellence continued as the company introduced its range of vibrant enamel cookware. The assortment combines the benefits of cast iron with the beauty of porcelain enamel and offers all of the style and function of the distinguished French brands at a value that is unique to Lodge. What is Porcelain Enamel on Cast Iron? After the cookware has been cast from molten iron in individual sand moulds, a glass particulate called ‘frit’ is applied. The products are then baked in specialised ovens at temperatures between 1200 and 1400 degrees Fahrenheit (648 and 760 degrees Celsius). This causes the ‘frit’ to transform into a smooth porcelain surface that is then bonded to the iron. There is no exposed cast iron on Lodge’s enamel cookware. The black pot and lid rims are made from scratch-resistant matte porcelain. Why Lodge Enamel Cookware? As with Lodge’s renowned cast iron items, porcelain enamel cookware is also incredibly versatile. It is suitable for gas, electric, ceramic and induction cooktops and can be used in any conventional or convection oven up to a temperature of 500 degrees Fahrenheit (260 degrees Celsius). The heat retention of cast iron and the benefits of porcelain enamel combine seamlessly during a vast array of cooking methods, including sautéing, frying, searing, braising, stewing, roasting, broiling and baking. Porcelain enamel’s resistance to acidic and alkaline foods also enables the cookware to be used to marinate, refrigerate and freeze. It is not compatible with microwave ovens or outdoor grills and campfires. What you Need to Know Before Cooking with Lodge Enamel 1) Wash and dry your porcelain cookware prior to using it for the first time. 2) If your cookware is accompanied by rubber bumpers when unpackaged, keep them safe and use during storage. 3) Although the porcelain (glass) finish is hard, it can be chipped if banged or dropped, so handle with care. 4) Interior protection should be used to prevent chipping if the cookware is stacked. 5) Always lift your cookware when moving it (don’t drag it along surfaces). 6) For added longevity, pre-heat and cool your cookware gradually. 7) Use oven mitts to protect your hands from hot cookware and the stainless steel knobs. 8) Safeguard surfaces by placing hot cookware on trivets or heavy cloths. Let’s Cook! It is advisable to use vegetable oil or spray on your enamel products in order to enhance both cooking and subsequent cleaning. When cooking on the hob, low and medium settings provide the best results due to the natural heat retention of the cookware. Wooden, silicone or nylon utensils are suitable. Metal tools can scratch the porcelain. Caring for Your Lodge Enamel Cookware 1) Allow the cookware to cool naturally prior to washing. 2) Although dishwasher safe, hand-washing with warm, soapy water is recommended in order to preserve the original appearance of the products. 3) Use only nylon pads or scrapers to expel food residue. Metal pads will damage the porcelain. 4) Remove minor stains by rubbing them with a damp cloth and baking soda. For persistent stains, soak the inside of the cookware for 2 to 3 hours using a mixture of 3 tablespoons of household bleach per litre of water. 5) To remove stubborn, baked-on food, boil 2 cups of water and add 4 tablespoons of baking soda. Apply the liquid to the food and use a nylon or wooden scraper to loosen. 6) Dry your cookware thoroughly before storing. Lodge’s Limited Lifetime Warranty Lodge Porcelain Enamel is warranted to the purchaser by Lodge Manufactu