Le Creuset is one of the best brands when it comes down to purchasing cookware. This is because the company has designed an exceptional range of pots and pans to make sure there is something for everyone’s cooking needs and kitchens.
However, Le Creuset braiser vs everyday pan is a common comparison because these two pieces of cookware are suitable for every kitchen function.
Le Creuset Braiser vs Everyday Pan
Le Creuset Braiser
To begin with, the braiser is known to have a traditional shape, which is why it has shallow and sloped sides with a wider base. It’s a middle ground between a skillet and a Dutch oven, which makes it a versatile piece of cookware. As the name suggests, it is a great option for braising – braising is the conventional culinary technique that is all about applying even and steady heat to transform tough cuts into tender and soft meat (it softens the meat and builds up moisture).
The braiser can be used for simmering meat in thick sauces. Le Creuset braiser is available in multiple sizes, such as enameled cast iron braiser and toughened nonstick pro. It has a multipurpose shape, which is why it can be used as a skillet on the stovetop for making stews and casseroles. Moreover, its shape makes it suitable for steaming as well as shallow frying – you can also use it for serving because it can be shifted from the oven to your dining table.
A braiser is designed with sloped sides, which tend to be shallow as compared to a Dutch oven and deeper as compared to a skillet, making it deep enough to cook stews and sauces. In addition, the braiser has a curved bottom, making it easier to toss the food and stir the ingredients (yup, it will be easier to make stir-fries). Moreover, it will be easier to scoop the food from the braiser. When it comes down to the design, there is a large and wide cooking surface, so you can sear the veggies and meat.
The best thing about the cooking surface is that it prevents overcrowding, and it helps reduce the liquid, so you can thicken up the sauces. The braiser is designed with a tight-fitting lid, which means the steam buildup and circulation will be exceptional; it also helps lock in flavor and moisture. Le Creuset has made the braiser over-safe, and you can also use it on the stovetop. As far as the applications are concerned, it can be used to make chili, stew, curry, lamb shanks, fennel, short ribs, and other pot meals. All in all, it’s available in four sizes.
Le Creuset Everyday Pan
As the name suggests, Le Creuset has designed it as an everyday pan, so you can cook a variety of food, irrespective if it’s lunch, breakfast, or different. It is made from enameled cast iron, promising durability, and a convenient cooking experience. The everyday plan is available in two sizes, ranging from 3.5-quart to 5-quart, so you can cook food for small and medium families.
The pans are oven-safe, and the maximum temperature range is 500-degrees Fahrenheit (easier baking!). The best thing about Le Creuset’s everyday pan is that it’s dishwasher-safe, so you won’t have to worry about cleaning it with your hands. In addition, there is a lifetime warranty available for the pans, so you can get free repair and replacement of handles and other parts of the pan.
It is available in various colors, such as fig, white, pink, cream, cerise, graphite, and many more. Interestingly, the everyday pan is manufactured in France, which is the ultimate proof of durability. The everyday pan comes with a tight-sealing lid, which helps create the oven-like effect, promising easier heat buildup and retention. The cleanup is pretty easy as you can put it in the dishwasher.
When it comes down to the usage, the pan can be used in the oven, and the lid knob is also oven-safe. As compared to the braiser, the everyday pan is only available in two sizes, so you can cook food for six people (yes, it’s maximum).
The Bottom Line
At a surface level, both these pans are pretty similar as they are manufactured from the same material and can be used in dishwashers and ovens. In fact, even their temperature thresholds are the same. The only difference is the availability of sizes because braiser has four sizes while everyday pan has two sizes!