Be it casseroles or braisers, both of them make great additions to any kitchen because they are versatile cooking utensils. For instance, they can be used for roasting, frying, braising, sautéing, and much more.
Le Creuset has launched casseroles and braisers for their users, but many people have a hard time understanding the differences. So, with this article, we are sharing a Le Creuset buffet casserole vs braiser comparison to help you choose the right one!
Le Creuset Buffet Casserole vs Braiser
Le Creuset Braiser
If we look at history, the braisers were first designed to cook tougher cuts of meat because they would steam the meat to make it soft and tender. This is because steam can break down the meat’s collagen. Having said that, Le Creuset designed an array of braisers that can handle the searing and sautéing jobs pretty well. In addition, the braisers can be used for simmering, baking, poaching, and slow cooking. The braiser has been designed with cast iron material, and all the braisers are hand-crafted.
According to the company, they use sand molds for casting the braisers. In addition, the braisers are finished with high-end enamel, which prevents cracking and chipping – three layers of enamel are applied to ensure durable performance. As far as the material is concerned, Le Creuset has used pure cast iron, which promises even heating and maximum heat retention to prevent the chances of cold and hot spots in the food.
Le Creuset has designed two sizes of braisers, including 5-quart and 3.5-quart. The former is suitable for cooking food for over six people, while the latter is suitable for cooking for over four people. As far as the applications are concerned, the braisers can be used for making meat, sautéing and simmering vegetables, and browning other ingredients. However, you need to keep in mind that it needs a central burner to ensure even heat distribution.
Also, the braiser can be used in the oven as well as on the stovetop because the maximum temperature range is 500-degrees Fahrenheit. In addition, the triple coating makes it resistant to scratching, and you can easily wash it in the dishwasher. While using the braiser, make sure that there is enough space on the stovetop because the majority of burners have a limited room. The only downside of using Le Creuset braisers is that they are heavy in weight, which makes them a bit challenging to handle. However, the weight is caused by cast iron material, so it’s the price you’ve to pay for a heavy design.
Le Creuset Buffet Casserole
Just like braiser, Le Creuset’s buffet casserole is one of the most versatile pieces you can find out there. To begin with, it is available in various colors, including red, blue, white, and teal. The casserole has been designed with a shallow base and makes a great all-in-one pan, making it perfect for slow cooking, braising, and searing. It comes with a glass lid that’s made from high-end tempered glass, which helps build steam and keep an eye on the food during the cooking process.
The casserole is a versatile utensil, which is why it can be used for stovetop as well as oven cooking, but you can use it for serving food as well. It is made from cast iron, and the exterior and chip-resistant enamel coating, which help retain the appearance and aesthetics of the casserole. In addition, the enamel coating promises exceptional heat retention that helps lock in moisture and flavor, resulting in well-cooked and delicious food.
Le Creuset uses advanced casting techniques and hand finishing to create these casseroles. Usually, the material is sand-casted, which creates a well-polished look. In addition to enamel coating, the casseroles are fired twice to achieve an appealing yet durable finish. The interior of the casserole has been carefully designed to prevent dulling and staining.
The interior side has special light enamel to make sure you can keep an eye on the food, and the casting actually helps with heat distribution. The best thing about this casserole is that it can be used with halogen, electric, induction, and gas stoves. The lid has an oven-safe configuration as the maximum temperature range is around 425-degrees Fahrenheit. In addition, there are oversized handles in the casserole that promise a secure grip and even distribution of weight.