How can I Prevent Food from Sticking to the Enamel ? Enamel Cast Iron Advice

Food can sometimes stick to the bottom of enameled cast-iron products during cooking. Fortunately, with a few simple tips, you can avoid this inconvenience while getting the most out of your Le Creuset item.

The first thing to do is not to skip the essential step of preheating. Enamelled cast iron takes time to heat up, but once hot, it retains heat evenly and ensures even cooking.

To do this, place the casserole over medium heat with a fatty substance (oil, butter, etc.) and let it heat up for 2 to 3 minutes. It's important to add the fat right from the start, as heating the enamel in a vacuum can damage it. The fat will create a barrier between the food and the surface; and the fat, heated upstream, will only be slightly absorbed by your food.

This step is essential, as insufficient preheating can lead to uneven cooking and increase the risk of food sticking.

When cooking, don't overload and leave plenty of space between your food. This can lead to a build-up of moisture, preventing food from browning properly and causing it to stick to the bottom.

Enamelled cast iron is ideal for slow, even cooking. If you use too high a heat, the food may burn and stick.

If food residues form despite your precautions, don't worry. Deglazing is a simple technique for loosening them while enriching your sauces.

Deglazing is normally done by adding a cold liquid to loosen the juices by creating a thermal shock; but with enamelled cast iron, the thermal shock risks damaging the cast iron. So it's best to add a warm or hot liquid and gently scrape off any residue with a wooden spoon to avoid damaging the enamel.

A final tip: don't stir too much at the start of cooking. When searing meat or vegetables, let them cook sufficiently before stirring or turning. This allows a crust to form, which will come off naturally. If you force them, they may stick more.

💡For the maintenance of your enamelled cast iron item I advise you to go and read the article Using and maintaining enameled cast iron: tips and advice.

In conclusion, to prevent food from sticking, all you need to do is follow a few simple rules: proper preheating, use of fat and careful temperature management. With these good practices, not only will you avoid residues, but you'll also get perfectly cooked, tasty dishes.

And if residues persist, don't forget: deglazing is your best ally!