Dutch ovens are best ovens you can use indoors as well as outdoors. Hitherto there were more of indoor ovens available but Dutch ovens broke the convention and have proved to be a wonderful example of a perfect outdoor oven. Dutch oven is an amazing invention for it can cook delicious vegetarian dishes, sumptuous roast meats, other non-vegetarian dishes and awesome desserts. So, throw a party in your backyard, the guests will be convinced to return back, for the delicious food quality, once again.

Dutch ovens allow methods like baking, stewing, simmering, frying, steaming, boiling and other methods. You can take it to the camps and be assured of baked breads, stews, fish preparations and other items that will satisfy your gourmet pleasures.

Dutch Ovens - Common Types

Dutch Ovens are mainly of two types - "Camp" or "Outdoor" Dutch ovens and "Bean Pots" or "Kitchen Ovens".

Camp or outdoor Dutch ovens are made of heavy cast iron. These ovens have a tight fitting lid with a lip or ridge around the outer edge that holds coals and prevents ash from falling into the food. They also have three short legs in the bottom. While you purchase these ovens, look for the appropriate length of the legs for they maintain a level that allows the air to flow around the coals while the cooking is continuing.

"Bean Pots" or "Kitchen Ovens" are also made of heavy cast iron, have a highly domed basting lid without an outer rim and a bottom with no legs. These ovens can be used with briquettes but it is better to use it in a kitchen oven or a stovetop.

While purchasing Dutch ovens another important factor to be kept in mind is roughness of the cast metal. The rougher the surface is, the greater surface area for oil is required while 'seasoning' the oven. With regular cooking and required oil used, the surface becomes smooth and the food does not remain sticking to the surface.

Dutch Ovens - Other Types

You can buy any of the two Dutch ovens as suited to your purpose. The varieties are Lodge Dutch Ovens and MACA Dutch Ovens.

Lodge Dutch ovens are the best when you want to cook on embers on a campfire. It is made of cast iron, has a smooth surface with three short legs that raises it above the heat surface.

The MACA Dutch ovens are deeper than any other ovens and hold larger quantity of food. They reduce burning as well as absorb, retain and distribute heat better than any other ovens in the world. The heavy lid on top gives a pressure cooker effect and makes the food soft, moist and tasty.

Dutch ovens serve the multiple purpose of outdoor and indoor cooking. It not only enhances the beauty of your kitchen, it also helps you to cook delicious items when you are out of your home.