****** - Verified Buyer
4.5
Was a bit skeptical of its authenticity as the paint job didn’t look up to par. Another le creuset product had a review about the same concern and uploaded a perfect example of what mine looks like, splotchy with hints of black and some other minor discolorations (I purchased the color flame). I own another le creuset Dutch round oven (6.75qt) and am able to compare the two for its overall quality.So far I’ve only used this once to make pasta sauce and it cooked nicely and I was able to clean it without any hassle. I personally didn’t like the color flame at first but after having it in the kitchen I’m happy to say that it’s made cooking an enjoyable experience. The color flame is so rich and vibrant. Overall pleased with this purchase!Le Creuset seems to be discontinuing this size of the oval Dutch oven, but it’s so perfect for small meals! You could roast a small chicken or game hen in here, and it’s great for one-pot meals. The oval shape means more options for sizes of items you put in it over a round one of this size.I recommend at least one oval Dutch oven to any home chef.This was sold as a new product. No where did it say the item was damaged or returned by someone else. The handle had a chip on it. If you purchase the oval 3.5 quart #25 Le Crueset cast iron dutch oven I suggest you examine it before you wash it. I was so pleased to get it that I put it right in soapy water to wash it and start using it. As I was washing it the chip became obvious as it was rough when I ran my hand over it and is obvious as shown in the picture. Because I had already gotten the label on the bottom wet, I did not feel I could return it. I hope my experience helps someone else to examine and return before washing.I love the blue color~~I initially thought a 3.5 quart pot is too big, but it turns out that it's just good for 2. I simply dumped everything in, stuffed into my over --- all done, yummy! This is my first dutch oven and I love it! I read many reviews before buying it but simply found it too expensive...then Amazon suddenly gave a discount, happy ^^This oval shaped Dutch Oven by Le Creuset is wonderful! I've already roasted chicken and vegetables and baked sourdough bread in it and it turns out great all the time. I now own two Le Creuset dutch ovens, primarily for baking sourdough bread, and I wouldn't think of baking bread any other way.Make sure you inspect the entire unit closely under good lighting, and run your hand over all the surfaces, outside and in. This pimpling/bubbling/pin hole defect was not noticeable at first until I ran my hand over the surface, felt the roughness and then turned on another light and studied it closer. LOTS of bubbling over an entire long side of the interior, with lots of pinholes. For the amount of money these cost, I'm surprised that this defect wasn't caught before shipping, as this should have been sold as a second, and not a first quality item. Hopefully the second one will be better (one or two pinholes or one bubble is understandable... this many is not).Most expensive piece of cookware in my kitchen but well worth it. I use it regularly for sautéing, braising, and simmering. Can go from stovetop to oven with the lid on or off. Super easy to clean.100 % satisfied with this purchase.I am a serious cook, with many years experience and still smile every time I take this out to prepare a dish. It has smooth even heating, superb heat transference and all the dishes I've made in it turned out incredibly well. I wish I had owned this many years ago! The 3 1/2 Quart Oval is easy to lift either off the stove or to place in and out of the oven. I chose the red and the finish is beautiful. The oval shape makes it easier to place meats in and is perfect for a whole chicken.Cleaning it is simple and it breezes right through the dishwasher coming out like brand new. One of those reviews I wish I could give it even more than five stars!
