Stainless Steel Pot

I was looking for a cast iron pan that was 12 in. and deep. And this one is deep! It measures a full 3.5″ deep. The enamel looks nice as well. I am familiar with the Mario Batali line of cast iron cookware, as I already have his 6 qt. cast iron enamel pot in brown. And this pan did not disappoint me either. I was unfamiliar with the matte enamel texture on the inside of this pan. As I was expecting it to be just plain cast iron. But I prefer the matte texture. It is NOT raw cast iron. So it does not need seasoning, and it will not rust. And it should get more non sticky as you use it. But beware, you cannot cook eggs on this right away, and expect them not to stick.

What this pan really shines at is searing and braising. And it does this wonderfully. It is deep enough to fry without splattering your cooktop as well. It does not come with a lid, but I just use a 12 inch lid from my other fry pans.

And it is also dishwasher safe, although I prefer to hand wash mine.

The one con with this pan is that is sooo heavy compared to other cast iron skillets. But I prefer heavy as I use mine everyday and want it to stand up to my use and abuse in the kitchen.

I think this skillet is a very good option for those who are looking for a heavy cast iron skillet that will last for many years, but just cant bring themselves to spend the $$$ for the french kind.

Edit- As a side note, Mario Batali cast iron cookware is made by Copco. Copco has been making cast iron enameled cookware for around 45 years. And many of their pots and pans are still in circulation and use from that long ago. Check ebay if you dont believe me. So be assured that this is quality cookware.

Edit- I have now used this skillet occassionally for about 1.5 months. I had to change my review down a few stars for quality issue.

In just a few uses, the bottom of the enamel on the pan has scorched from using my gas stove. I dont use anything higher than medium heat on all my cast iron pieces, and this is not acceptable to me. And to make matters worse, the enamel has started to chip on the outer rim of this pan. I have only hand washed this pan, and not banged it alot. The quality just is not there with this pan. I am disappointed, because it is a very good size and nice and deep. I will have to buy a Lodge 12″ skillet. Something i should have done at the beginning. You are now warned to buy at your own risk.

I loved the pan at first. It was exactly what I was looking for in terms of size and quality, but then after only the first use, I noticed flecks of orange paint coming from somewhere. Now the enamel is almost gone from the handle and is starting to chip in other places as well (I only handwash). So much for the lovely orange. Now it looks almost like a family heirloom or something. But appearance doesn’t detract from cooking quality, and in that regard I’m very happy with it. I wish it had a lid though.

By the third hand wash the enamel began to chip off revealing the cast iron underneath. Avoid this product.

I am a big fan of Le Creuset. I decided to take a flyer on this skillet since it was significantly cheaper than Le Creuset seconds on sale. It did not disappoint. The color is not quite as sexy, but it still looks pretty good and in terms of function is great.

Great skillet. Heats evenly and holds alot. Can put it in the oven, easy to clean.