How to Clean your Le Creuset Cast Iron Casserole

Le Creuset’s Cast Iron Casseroles have been made since 1925 and the good news is that thanks to the enamel interior they do not require the same level of care and detail that is needed for traditional raw cast iron pots and pans. Enamelled cast iron does not need to be seasoned before using, will not rust, can be washed with soap and is dishwasher-safe.

By looking after your Le Creuset Cast Iron Casseroles and especially the interior enamel appropriately, you’ll get the most out of these reliable kitchen classics that are designed to last a lifetime. Try these tips for taking care of both the inside and the outside of your beautiful collectable cookware – your efforts will help safeguard the integrity of these handmade heritage essentials.

Softly Does It

When it comes to removing stubborn marks, be sure to use a soft cloth or sponge – a scourer may be tempting but you want to maintain the smooth enamel finish that is so essential to successful Le Creuset cooking experiences. We love cellulose sponges – they work hard but are so soft.Tip:The beauty of Le Creuset Casseroles is that they are designed to work best on a medium heat – too hot and your chances of burning food are higher.

Burns Begone

It’s happened to all of us – that pot of potatoes that we forgot about or the pasta and meatballs that caramelised and ended up stuck and burnt on the bottom of our beautiful Casserole. Do not fear! Pop a teaspoon of dishwashing liquid and 2-3 Tablespoons of bicarbonate of soda into half a pot of warm water and simmer on low heat for 8-10 minutes – now use a spatula to ease off the burnt food. Remember that Le Creuset casseroles should only be used on highest for boiling water or liquid – for any other cooking, a medium heat is perfect since the enamel is designed to provide incredible heat retention and even cooking. Tip: You may need to repeat the above process if the burn is really bad – you can soak a Casserole in a litte warm water with the dishwashing soap and Bicarbonate of soda mix and leave it to stand overnight.

Scorch SOS

The underside of every Casserole gets a scorch mark every now and then and while they do not affect the reliability of your beautiful Le Creuset favourite in the least, it’s good to know how to clean them. Simply flip your Casserole over and make the same reliable bicarbonate of soda and dishwashing soap paste above (a teaspoon of dishwashing liquid and 2-3 Tablespoons of bicarbonate of soda) and wipe off with a soft sponge.Tip:Hot pots need warm water – thermal shock happens when you immerse a boiling hot pot in cold water. Keep your enamal perfectly intact by following this rule.

Top Tips for Caring for Casseroles

• All Le Creuset Casseroles are dishwasher safe but hand washing is still the best way to keep your prized pots perfectly clean.
• Seriously bad burn? Pop a dishwashing tablet into a shallow pot of water and leave it for an hour or two to ease off the burnt food and brighten the enamel interior.
• Always use Silicone Accessories when cooking in your Casserole.
• Short on space and need to stash Casseroles inside each other? Prevent scratches when storing your Cast Iron Casseroles by using sheets of kitchen towel in between each one.

Star Buy

Le Creuset specialised Le Creuset Pots & Pans Cleaner is a must for all passionate cooks and Le Creuset Cast Iron Casserole collectors. Use it every third or fourth time you clean your Cast Iron Casserole to keep it looking and working at its best.

To view the complete Le Creuset range, visit any Le Creuset Boutique Store or shop online at www.lecreuset.co.za where we offer free delivery in South Africa.