For the greatest results, sourdough demands a continual steamy climate, which may be difficult to accomplish without a dutch oven. That’s why I compiled a list of the finest dutch ovens for sourdough bread, with the Lodge Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven atop the list.
Hello, everybody! My name is Shea, and I like sourdough (particularly when toasted and topped with a piece of melted cheese, wonderful!). Nevertheless, as much as I like eating it, I am aware of the difficulty in producing it. Sourdough bread is an unusual loaf!
If you’ve been having trouble making homemade sourdough, you’re probably using the incorrect equipment. That’s where Dutch ovens come in. Dutch ovens provide the ideal atmosphere for your sourdough loaf, allowing it to plump up and develop a lovely crust with a delicious inside.
I love the Lodge dutch oven since it is user-friendly and handy for everyone. There are no frills or frills, just dependability and longevity. It has great heat retention and uniform heating all around, which is vital when baking sourdough. The handled lid and big side handles are very convenient.
Want to buy a dutch oven for making sourdough bread (and other delicious recipes)? Then continue reading. The best six dutch ovens on the market are listed here.
Let’s see which dutch oven will end up in your kitchen!
Contents
- Best Dutch Oven for Sourdough Bread: Top Picks
- 1. Lodge Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven (Top Choice)
- 2. LoafNest: Incredibly Easy Artisan Bread Kit (Premium Pick)
- 3. LE TAUCI 3 Quart Dutch Oven (Best 3-Quart Option)
- 4. Instant Electric Precision Dutch Oven (Most Versatile)
- 5. Overmont 2 in 1 Dutch Oven (Best Double Dutch)
- 6. Uno Casa Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven with Lid (Best Set)
- Best Dutch Oven for Sourdough Bread: Things to Consider
- Verdict
- FAQs
- Which Dutch oven is best for sourdough bread?
- What size Dutch oven is best for sourdough baking?
- Which is the best Dutch oven for baking bread?
- What is the best container to bake sourdough in?
- Do you grease the Dutch oven for sourdough bread?
- What is the best bakers flour for sourdough?
- Is 7 qt Dutch oven too big for sourdough bread?
- What size Dutch oven does Ina Garten recommend?
- Is 6 qt Dutch oven too big for bread?
- What is the number 1 Dutch oven?
Best Dutch Oven for Sourdough Bread: Top Picks
There are several dutch ovens on the market, making it difficult to choose the best one. Hence, I’ve included a dutch oven for everyone on my top six list, whether you want a really flexible 5-in-1 product or a basic clay three-quart.
1. Lodge Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven (Top Choice)
- Big capacity, nonstick, won’t scratch or crack, exceptional heat retention, even heating, safe up to 500F, secure and comfortable handles, cover with handle, smooth surface, and an astonishing color variety
- Cast iron is the material used.
- Porcelain enamel finish
- 6 quarts capacity
- 14.33 pound weight
I don’t need any expensive gadgets or equipment to make sourdough bread. I want to keep to the fundamentals for a job well done. And it is for this reason that I depend on the Lord Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven for all of my sourdough bread baking requirements.
For starters, this dutch oven has an extra-large six-quart capacity, allowing me to bake a loaf of sourdough bread for the whole family. It’s built of heavy-duty cast iron with a porcelain-enamel covering to prevent scratches, chipping, and stuck-on gunk while retaining heat well.
Large loop handles are located on each side of the dutch oven. They provide a better grip, which is vital for removing your sourdough bread from the oven. When it comes to the oven, this product may easily be utilized up to 500F, making it ideal for sourdough bread.
The majority of the problems with this dutch oven were caused by the packing and shipping, not by the pot itself. Some, for example, arrived with chips or other flaws. Fortunately, the organization is always ready to deliver replacements to satisfy its clients.
2. LoafNest: Incredibly Easy Artisan Bread Kit (Premium Pick)
- Important Features: Includes a perforated nonstick silicone liner, is safe up to 500F, produces the right texture inside and out, will not rust, is oblong in form, is BPA and PFOA-free, and is durable for 1,000+ uses.
- Cast iron is the material used.
- 9.46 pound weight
If you’ve been unsuccessful in making sourdough bread in a standard dutch oven, it’s time to switch things up. Admittedly, the LoafNest is pretty expensive, but it is a creative and all-new method to make Artisan bread directly at home. Here’s why you’ll like it.
The LoafNest is shaped like an oblong loaf of sourdough bread. It also has a convenient, professional-style liner to guarantee that bread is cooked to perfection every time, with a crispy surface and a soft, fluffy inside. It also avoids the infamous flatness of traditional Dutch ovens.
This kit is referred to as the Less than 5 minutes effort option. Just combine the ingredients, form them into the LoafNest, and bake (safe up to 500F). There is no rusting, and you will appreciate the nonstick features of this cutting-edge dutch oven and liner.
Even inexperienced bakers will find it simple to make sourdough bread with this dutch oven. The most important disadvantage is that the handles are on the tiny side. This may be difficult, particularly when the dutch oven is full with ingredients and gets heavy.
3. LE TAUCI 3 Quart Dutch Oven (Best 3-Quart Option)
- Thick and heavy to keep moisture in, scratch and rust-resistant, safe up to 950F, may be used on campfires and barbecues, nonporous, chemical-free, nonstick, dishwasher-friendly, lighter than cast iron, huge side handles
- Clay, Porcelain, and Ceramic
- Nonstick finish
- 3 quarts capacity
- 5.49 pound weight
The Le Tauci dutch oven is just three quarts in size, yet it is far from simple. In reality, this is one of the most amazing sourdough dutch ovens on the market. There are several reasons to add this little but powerful weapon to your cooking arsenal.
For starters, this is a ceramic pot that will not scratch or corrode. It can withstand temperatures of up to 950°F and may even be used on top of campfires and grills. Since it is thick and heavy, it produces a wet environment for your sourdough bread, ensuring excellent taste and moisture. Yum!
Last but not least, this clay dutch oven is completely non-porous, so no scents or tastes will be absorbed or discharged. You can prepare a stew one night and sourdough bread the next without danger of flavor transfer.
A few consumers complained about the pot discoloration, which was difficult to remove. Other than that, this three-quart pot has received rave reviews. Some folks have more than one since they are so excellent!
4. Instant Electric Precision Dutch Oven (Most Versatile)
- Important Features: Five cooking operations, huge capacity, durability and dependability, dishwasher-safe, very adaptable, precise temperature control
- Cast iron is the material used.
- Enamel is the finish.
- 6 quarts capacity
- Weight: 21 lbs.
Are you even alive if you aren’t in love with the Instant Pot brand? Alright, it may be a little much. But let me tell you, Instant Pot has rapidly become one of my favorite appliance companies, whether it’s a pressure cooker, air fryer, or, yes, a dutch oven.
The Instant Dutch oven is engineered for maximum precision and control, resulting in professional-grade results. It’s simple to use. Oh, and there are five different cooking choices, so you can use this dutch oven for much more than simply making sourdough bread.
The dutch oven is made of heavy-duty cast iron and may be used on the stove or in the oven. It can contain up to six quarts of dough, allowing you to produce huge loaves of sourdough with ease. The saucepan and lid are completely dishwasher safe!
Buyers praised the flexibility of this dutch oven. Nonetheless, some people had rust problems. One user said that swiping a moist paper towel with some oil may quickly repair the rusting. To be honest, it’s not a major problem that most people have.
5. Overmont 2 in 1 Dutch Oven (Best Double Dutch)
- Important Features: Easy lid that converts to a skillet, comfortable handles, uniformly transmits heat, can be used at high temperatures, pre-seasoned, recipe Ebook is included.
- Cast iron is the material used.
- Nonstick finish
- 5 quarts capacity
- 14.11 pound weight
Anything marketed as 2-in-1 is a certain victory in my book. There’s something about variety that fascinates me. So, how about you? If you need a dutch oven for sourdough bread that can also be used as a skillet, the Overmont double dutch oven is the way to go.
This 2-in-1 dutch oven includes an extra-large, long-lasting dutch oven for all of your cooking and sourdough-baking needs. The lid easily transforms to a skillet, making it ideal for camping excursions or when you don’t want to purchase a separate pan for scrambled eggs.
This 2-in-1 device, made of cast iron, transmits heat evenly and effectively and can withstand very high temperatures. This set has been pre-seasoned and is ready to go when you are. After that, you’ll have two comfy handles to assist you carry even the heaviest loaves.
This is a heavy cast iron dutch oven designed for making sourdough bread. Several folks also felt it was a little harsh. However bear in mind that seasoning improves with time. Thus, although it may be a little harsh at first, it will become significantly more non-stick with time.
6. Uno Casa Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven with Lid (Best Set)
- Sturdy, stainless steel lid included, silicone pot holder, trivet pad, and E-book included, may be used with any heat source, broad loop handles, will not chip or scratch
- Cast iron is the material used.
- Black satin enamel finish
- 6 quarts capacity
- Weight: 13 lbs.
It is more important than ever to get the most bang for your money. That’s why I included this lovely set from Uno Casa. The combination of fire engine red and pearly royal blue is stunning, and you’ll appreciate the addition of a silicone pot holder, trivet pad, and recipe Ebook.
Nevertheless, don’t simply purchase this dutch oven for sourdough bread because of the extras (though they are a significant selling feature, am I right?). Buy this fantastic dutch oven because it has a satin enamel surface that is 100% nonstick and can be used with any heat source.
This dutch oven is also long-lasting and dependable. It’s made of durable cast iron and comes with a stainless steel cover to handle all of your sourdough baking needs. It’s resistant to unsightly chips and scratches, and the broader loop handles make it easy to transport.
This sourdough bread dutch oven is no joke, weighing 13 pounds. While utilizing this dutch oven, be prepared to work out. Except from the heavy weight, consumers were really happy with this high-quality product.
Best Dutch Oven for Sourdough Bread: Things to Consider
Are you unsure which dutch oven is best for you? It may be challenging with so many possibilities. But don’t worry, I’m here to assist you. While buying for a new dutch oven, keep these few points in mind.
Capacity
The capacity is the first item to consider. A smaller version, such as a three-quart, will suffice for someone baking for oneself or one other person. Those who wish to make more large sourdough bread will need to invest in a five-quart dutch oven.
Material
While cast iron is the most often used material for dutch ovens, clay is also widely used. The most notable advantage of clay is that it is lighter than cast iron while retaining the majority of its properties.
Weight
Some of these dutch ovens are rather heavy, making them difficult to move in and out of the oven. If the weight of your dutch oven is an issue for you, make sure to read the information under each product name.
Features that have been added
Do you want something adaptable, such as a double dutch oven or a 5-in-1 cooker? Choose a dutch oven with extra-large handles or a nonporous surface that will not absorb tastes or aromas.
Each dutch oven has a unique set of qualities. Your objective is to determine which characteristics you cannot live without (or dont want to live without).
Verdict
Although you can’t go wrong with any of these dutch ovens for sourdough bread, the Lodge Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven is unquestionably the best. It’s a traditional Dutch oven with proven results that every sourdough bread maker would appreciate.
FAQs
Which Dutch oven is best for sourdough bread?
The Challenger Bread Pan®… Lodge Cast Iron Combination Cooker are our favorite dutch ovens for baking sourdough.
5.5 qt. Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Trademark Round Dutch Oven…
5.5-quart STAUB Cast Iron Round Cocotte in Black Matte.
7477 6-qt Cast Iron Oval Fryer by Bayou Classic.
Artisan Oval Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven from Crock-Pot.
What size Dutch oven is best for sourdough baking?
A circular 5Q or 5L cast-iron Dutch oven with a tight-fitting cover and loop handles on either side is ideal for baking sourdough bread. You should also make certain that the Dutch Oven’s knob and handles are oven safe to high heat (preferably brass or cast iron and not plastic).
Which is the best Dutch oven for baking bread?
Staub Cast Iron 5.5 Quart Round Cocotte ($359.95 on Amazon) is the best overall choice. Best Value: Lodge 5 Quart Cast Iron Dutch Oven (Amazon: $44.90) Also excellent: Lodge Target 6 Quart Oyster Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven ($79.99) Le Creuset Bread Oven ($299.95 at Amazon) is the best Dutch oven substitute for bread baking.
What is the best container to bake sourdough in?
If you want to make a professional-looking loaf of sourdough bread, bake it in a strong cast iron pan that is securely sealed. This pan is composed of high-quality cast iron that has been expertly manufactured to give your bread the finest oven spring possible in a home oven.
Do you grease the Dutch oven for sourdough bread?
Spray a light layer of nonstick vegetable oil spray and sprinkle with semolina flour or cornmeal. (Be cautious at this phase – the weed may slightly smoke when ready.) Slip your hand beneath the towel or piece of parchment paper and flip the dough seam side down into the saucepan.
What is the best bakers flour for sourdough?
Since the microorganisms feed on sugar, any flour containing starch is ideal for a sourdough starter. Glutenous flours like spelt, einkorn, rye, and wheat function well.
Is 7 qt Dutch oven too big for sourdough bread?
Anything greater than a 5qt is just unnecessary. Unless you need it for anything other than bread, a 5 quart pot should be plenty for any size loaf of bread. A bigger pot will also need more time to heat up than a smaller one, making the 5qt far more efficient. They are also lighter and simpler to store.
What size Dutch oven does Ina Garten recommend?
A cast-iron enameled Dutch oven is a kitchen classic, and Ina (who has a well-documented love affair with Paris) trusts French heritage brand Le Creuset. She favors the brand’s circular, 5.5-quart Dutch oven for soups, stews, and braising. She is well-known for her love of the classic sandy Dune color.
Is 6 qt Dutch oven too big for bread?
What kind of Dutch oven do you use for baking bread? A Dutch oven with a tight-fitting cover is required for baking bread. This will assist to generate the steam required for a nice crust. For bread, any size Dutch oven may be used, although a 4 quart pot is ideal.
What is the number 1 Dutch oven?
Overall winner: Lodge 6-Quart Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven
It offers everything you need: an oven safe up to 500 degrees F, a 6-quart capacity, and exceptional heat retention. In our testing, the pot heated up quickly and evenly, with no hot patches.