Le Creuset pans

[scrummyyummy]

I've just started to use a cast iron enamel pan like Le Creuset on the hob. I've never used cast iron enamel to cook before but thought they are supposed to be THE thing to cook with so I went out and bought one today. I'm cooking a paella sort of thing and I can see some of the ingredients have burnt onto the base of the pan! Is that normal and will it be easy to get the burnt food off? I wasn't expecting it to burn as I thought it was like non-stick. I hope I don't have to spend all night scrubbing it!

[madmaggot]

No, it's not like non-stick but it does make the heat spread evenly throughout the pan. You might find that the base discolours.

[pastafreak]

You may find it's a good idea to have the heat a bit lower than you would with other pots.

[ummmm]

Also....I watched somewhere. Put it on the heat, no oil, and leave it. Then when it is seriously hot add some oil and wipe out with a kitchen towel. It gives a better non stick affect.

[heathfield]

This might help...(Note the additional tips listed on the right of the page...

http://www.ehow.com/h...st-iron-cookware.html

[scrummyyummy]

Thanks so much for your replies! I think I must have had the heat on too high! I will try heating the pan hot before putting the oil in next time. The family enjoyed the paella but I had to spend time scrubbing the burnt bits off! Not a good start for my new pan but hopefully I've learnt my lesson for next time! Thanks again!

[ayabrea38]

Dont forget though,some recipes,specially ones that have bacon bits in them actually are improved by the 'burnt bits',they are deglazed with liquid(preferably wine!) and add flavour to the finished dish.
Burnt pans can be helped by soaking with bicarbonate of soda or soda crystals in some water.
Lastly,you said cast iron like Le Creuset,if it ain't the proper thing they can be a bit thin and not as effective in spreading the heat.
Enjoy experimenting!
Aya

[midgie]

I've had a Chasseur (Le Creuset type) for 3 years I use if I'm cooking on the hob. I had to learn its ways but now even take it if we're camping, despite the weight. It gets hotter over the cooking time so you have to pull it off the heat now and then but I wouldn't be without it. Bits still stick now and then but just boil some water in it afterwards with a spot of washing up liquid, good as new. Loving English asparagus, spring onions, frozen peas, then add cooked pasta (dnne in one of those cylinders you just add hot water to for 10 mins) and warm though pesto sauce. All in one pan, hob or open fire, gorgeous.