Andy M. said:The concensus appears to be almost unanamous on the size. There is a difference of opinion on the shape.
Why do those of you who prefer oval, prefer oval?
Stevie said:I found this place posted by someone here I dont remember who it was. I bought my 7qt. french oven here for about $125.00 including shipping.
http://www.caplanduval2000.com/le_creuset.html
P.S. I don't see any 7 qt. french ovens at the present maybe they're sold out?
Michael in FtW said:Well, for my stews, chili, beans, soups and such that I'm going to cook on the stovetop the shape isn't very important.
But, for things things that are going into the oven for slow cooking that are longer than they are wide; like chicken, duck, rolled roast - the oval shape kind of fits the shape of the food. It allows more even spacing between the food and the sides of the pot for more even heat distribution.
At least - that's the way I figure it.
Robo410 said:Personally I don't like the phenolic (plastic) knobs that LeCruset uses. I have recipes that use 425* etc and want my cookware to be versatile. Lodge has metal handles as do some of the other less well advertised brands. Shop around.