KitchenAid VS Food Network: Which Dutch Oven Should You Choose?

As a chef with over ten years of experience in restaurant kitchens, I have used various types of cookware. This article focuses on comparing the KitchenAid Dutch Oven with the Food Network Oven. Both are well-known among both home cooks and professional chefs. We will look at key features to help you decide which one is the best for your cooking needs.

We’ll compare these Dutch ovens based on:

• Material
• Weight
• Heat retention and compatibility
• Lid fit
• Handles and product design
• Colors
• Maintenance and cleaning
• Durability and performance
• Warranty
• Price

KitchenAid is a renowned kitchen appliance brand known for its premium-quality products. Their Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven is a popular choice for cooking enthusiasts. This Dutch oven offers functionality and aesthetic appeal, making it a trusted brand for culinary enthusiasts and home chefs.

The Food Network Dutch Oven is known for its affordability. It is a noteworthy option for those looking to equip their kitchens with a versatile and reliable cookware piece.

Although they didn’t make it to the TOP-5 best Dutch ovens list for a few reasons, these two Dutch ovens are reliable options.

First, we will introduce each Dutch oven in detail. Then, we will explore how they differ and determine which one stands out.

KitchenAid VS Food Network: Material

KitchenAid	Food Network
The KitchenAid Dutch oven is made of cast iron with an enamel coating. It offers a robust and rust-resistant build. However, I find its cast iron thickness slightly less substantial than other Dutch oven brands.	The Food Network Dutch Oven is composed of robust cast iron and has an enameled surface for corrosion protection and simple cleaning. It is, however, notably thinner than luxury Dutch oven brands, which hints that it may not meet at par with other leading Dutch oven brands.

KitchenAid VS Food Network: Weight

KitchenAid	Food Network
This Dutch oven‘s weight is manageable. It can be easily lifted and maneuvered even if loaded with food.	Since the material is not as thick as other Dutch ovens I have tested, the Food Network Dutch Oven is not as heavy as you expect it to be. I can gently lift and maneuver it without difficulty.

KitchenAid VS Food Network: Heat Retention and Compatibility

KitchenAid	Food Network
The KitchenAid Dutch oven demonstrated good heat retention capabilities, maintaining a consistent temperature during braising for optimal results. Additionally, its wide heat compatibility, suitable for various stovetops and oven use up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, ensures versatility in cooking methods.	The Food Network Dutch Oven excels in heat retention, ensuring consistent cooking temperatures. Its compatibility with various heat sources, including stovetops and ovens, offers versatility and precise temperature control.

KitchenAid VS Food Network: Lid Fit

KitchenAid	Food Network
The self-basting lid creates an effective seal to retain moisture and flavor in the Dutch oven. However, there’s a minor issue with lid stability, causing steam leakage when the pot is moved, especially during extended cooking sessions.	The Food Network Dutch Oven‘s lid generally seals tightly to trap moisture and heat, but there was a minor issue with occasional steam escaping.

KitchenAid VS Food Network: Handles and Product Design

KitchenAid	Food Network
The Dutch oven‘s side handles lack secure grip holes, making it challenging to hold firmly. Despite this, the overall design is elegant and minimalistic, making it visually appealing for serving dishes.	The Dutch oven‘s ergonomic handles can be slightly narrow when using oven mitts, making it challenging to lift when full. Despite this, the Food Network Dutch Oven’s elegant design adds visual appeal and complements various kitchen decors.

KitchenAid VS Food Network: Colors

KitchenAid	Food Network
The KitchenAid Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven is available in a few color options, such as pistachio and blue velvet. The color choices are relatively limited compared to other Dutch ovens that offer a more extensive selection of shapes, sizes, and colors.	The Food Network Dutch Oven offers a variety of color options to suit individual preferences, including classic choices like Black, White, and Yellow, as well as stylish ombre variations such as Gray Ombre, Red Ombre, Turquoise Ombre, and Navy Blue Ombre.

KitchenAid VS Food Network: Maintenance and Cleaning

KitchenAid	Food Network
Cleaning the KitchenAid Dutch oven is easy due to its enamel coating, but it displayed signs of chipping after a few uses.	Cleaning the Food Network Dutch Oven is effortless due to its enameled surface, which prevents the need for seasoning. Food residue is easily removed with minimal scrubbing.

KitchenAid VS Food Network: Durability and Performance

KitchenAid	Food Network
The KitchenAid Dutch oven performed adequately for a specific cooking task but felt less robust and substantial compared to premium options. It’s suitable for occasional home use but may not be as durable for professional kitchen demands.	The Food Network Dutch Oven performed well in high-heat searing and extended braising without immediate wear. However, long-term durability could be a concern compared to other Dutch oven brands with thicker cast iron.

KitchenAid VS Food Network: Warranty

KitchenAid	Food Network
This Dutch oven includes a one-year warranty for added reassurance regarding its durability. Nevertheless, it is best to invest in high-end brands that offer better value for the price.	The Food Network Dutch Oven includes a standard one-year warranty, which is typical for kitchenware. A longer warranty would provide additional confidence in its quality and durability, which some users may have preferred.

KitchenAid VS Food Network: Price

KitchenAid	Food Network
The KitchenAid Dutch Oven is affordable but costs a bit more than the Food Network Dutch Oven.	Food Network Dutch Oven is a budget-friendly option. This makes it more appealing on a tighter budget.

Cooking Test

I conducted a comparative cooking test with the KitchenAid and Food Network Dutch ovens by making Red Wine Braised Short Ribs. To evaluate their performance, I considered the following aspects:

Browning

The KitchenAid and Food Network Dutch ovens both excelled in achieving excellent browning. Thanks to their cast iron makeup, they were able to sear the short ribs perfectly on each side. This resulted in a rich, caramelized crust that enhanced the overall depth and complexity of the flavor in the dish.

Moisture Retention

A minor steam leak is observed in KitchenAid Dutch Oven. 

The Food Network Dutch Oven also showed a slight tendency for steam to escape at times.

Final Flavor

Although the Red Wine Braised Short Ribs turned out exceptionally flavorful in both Dutch ovens, the ribs prepared in the KitchenAid Dutch Oven were notably more tender and had a richer taste.

How We Tested

To thoroughly test both Dutch ovens under actual cooking conditions, we conducted a practical cooking experiment.

We began by placing both the KitchenAid and Food Network Dutch ovens next to each other on the stovetop and bringing them up to the required temperature. Then, we proceeded to sear short ribs in each pot, noting how well they distributed heat and achieved an even, flavorful sear on the meat.

Throughout the long cooking process, we carefully observed how well each Dutch oven maintained moisture. We focused particularly on the effectiveness of their lids in sealing in steam and moisture, which is crucial for the dish.

After the cooking time was complete, we carried out a detailed taste analysis. This included judging the softness, flavor, and overall quality of the Red Wine Braised Short Ribs cooked in each of the Dutch ovens.

Conclusion