What makes Staub cookware is so good? And more importantly, is it worth the extra cost?
Staub cookware is the standard to beat when it comes to enameled cast iron cookware. Staub pots and pans are highly durable and will last many years. The company also makes a range of ceramic cookware that is also top-notch. In this article, you can learn about the range of products available at Staub. Why they are more expensive, and if they are worth the extra cost.
Table Of Contents
- Company information
- Is Staub as good as Le Creuset?
- What products does Staub make?
- Features of Staub cookware
- What makes Staub cookware so expensive?
- The manufacturing process.
- Pros and cons of the black interior.
- Overview of Staub products available.
- Conclusion (Is Staub cookware worth it, and is it any good?)
Company Information
Founded | The company was founded in the Alsace region of France in 1974 |
Founder | Francis Staub. |
Product Range | Staub is best known for its cast-iron cocotte (French Oven). But Staub has a wide range of cast-iron cookware. And the company also makes a range of ceramic bakeware. |
Cast-iron Cookware | Staub manufactures all of its cast-iron range in France. |
Ceramic Hollowware | Staub ceramic hollowware is currently produced in China. However, Staub continues to maintain a high level of quality control. |
Signature Products | High-quality enameled Dutch Ovens. |
Signature Color | Matte Black. |
Although Le Creuset is better known, Staub cookware is just as good.
Staub is not as well-known as Le Creuset cookware. However, both Staub and Le Creuset make some of the most sought-after cookware on the market. Staub is currently more bespoke, while Le Creuset has more of a global reach. However, both cookware brands are exceptional, and choosing between them comes down to personal preference.
If you are looking to purchase cookware for yourself or as a gift. Then it is hard to go wrong with a Staub. I have a fair amount of Staub cookware. Here is why I love my Staub.
Staub makes a wide range of products for all your kitchen needs.
Staub perfectly combines traditional craftsmanship with impressive state-of-the-art technology. Customers love their products which include the iconic cast-iron cocotte. However, they make more than just Dutch Ovens. Staub offers a wide range of products that includes.
- roasting pans
- fondue pots
- sauté pans
- stackable dishes
- grill pans
- bakeware
- ceramic tableware
Whether you purchase a Staub cast iron product or ceramic cookware. You can expect your cookware to be manufactured with high-quality materials. And inspected multiple times for any imperfections.
Features of Staub cookware
Staub cookware looks beautiful.
There is no question that Staub makes beautiful-looking products. Both the cast iron and ceramic range have a timeless design. And will look great in any style of kitchen. It also means you do not need to worry about the cookware look old and dated.
Staub makes only the best cookware possible.
Staub makes its cookware to withstand heavy-duty use. And are suitable for the hotel and restaurant industry. When you purchase Staub cookware, you are buying cookware that is professional grade. And it is built to last a long time.
Gorgeous colors, it is hard to choose your favorite.
Like Le Creuset, Staub is well known for its color range. Although matte black is the signature color. They have a wide range of colors available on both their cast iron and ceramic cookware. Staub colors have a deep but glossy look.
What makes the Staub cookware so expensive?
There is no doubt that Staub cookware is pricy, especially the cast iron range. Undoubtedly, there are extra costs that come with manufacturing cast iron in France. Such as the labor cost and importation of raw materials. So does a company survive?
They choose to make products at a higher quality than their competitors. For instance, Staub ceramic bowls and baking dishes and heavy and thicker than other brands. So they have obviously chosen the use more clay in their products other companies. As a result, the ceramics are less likely to chip and have better shock resistance.
Staub cast iron cookware.
The manufacture of enamel cast iron is not an easy process. And to make high-quality enamel is more challenging. This is due to the increased number of steps needed to make a single Dutch Oven. And the process requires a lot more individual attention. But as a result, every piece of cast iron is slightly different from the next, and no two pieces are the same.
- The production process starts with creating individual molds for each piece.
- Each piece of Staub cast iron is made individually molded using traditional techniques.
- During the production process, the cookware undergoes serious testing to ensure quality standards are met. The cookware is checked for hairline cracks and unevenness that might have occurred during casting.
- Before enameling, workers check the cookware, and remove burrs and smooth the edges of cookware using grinders and precision tools.
Staub workers are experts in enamel glazing.
Staub cast iron cookware receives a minimum of two coats of enamel. Not including the first protective coat of enamel. A total of three layers of enamel gives the exterior a lasting radiance and deep vibrant color. And prevents chipping. At every enameling stage, there is a risk that the enamel may crack due to the firing process. But this is what separates high-quality enameled cast iron from low-cost manufacturers.
Staub uses the majolica technique for coloring. Using this technique allows the brand to achieve a glossy enamel. And also the intense deep finish that Staub is famous for.
This technique uses three layers of enamel.
- The first layer of enamel is applied to protect the raw iron. And to smooth and even the surface.
- A secondary layer of enamel creates a glossy effect.
- And the third layer of enamel gives the cookware a deep brilliant color and appearance.
If you are new to enameled cast iron, here are some benefits of enamel cast iron. Enamelware is the ideal option if you do not want to season your ironware.
The Staub cast iron interiors.
- Ideal for semi-nonstick braising.
- The unique self-basting spikes also allow your Staub cookware to excel in slow cooking.
The benefits a black interior.
- Black interiors are very traditional and resemble traditional seasoned cast iron cookware.
- Staub enamel is incredibly scratch-resistant.
- Black interiors hide scratches better than lighter colors.
- If you do a lot of cooking, the black interiors of Staub cast iron hide food stains better than lighter colors.
Disadvantages of a black interior.
- I really like the black interiors, but many think white or creamy colors are more pleasant looking.
- It is harder to see a color change in food against a black interior.
Features to look out for
- A tight-fitting lid that prevents humidity from escaping. It allows cooks to retain 10% more moisture in food compared to competing cookware.
- Spikes in the interior – create a rainfall effect that keeps the food tender and flavorful.
- The Semi-rough texture is ideal for browning food and releasing food.
- Safe for use in the oven up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Dishwasher safe.
Overview of some of the Staub products on offer
Staub carries a wide range and assortment of cookware. They are available for purchase in a range of colors and sizes. Here are some of the products Staub has on offer:
- Mini French ovens (cocottes)
- Frying pans
- Sauté Pans
- Bakeware
- Bowls
Staub Mini French ovens (cocottes)
Staub’s mini cocottes are easy to care for and a perfect addition to the kitchen. The enamel surface distributes heat evenly and is nonporous. Therefore suited to keep food both hot and cold.
- Shallow and round cocotte is also known as the French oven. The small French ovens are perfect for serving individual baked desserts.
- Mini French ovens are beautiful and offer individual portion sizes.
- Great for keeping dips and Pâté chilled for summer entertaining.
Staub frying pans
This is not your ordinary cast iron pan. It has been produced with the same standards that you expect from any Staub product. The pans are available, including the most popular 10-12 inch sizes. Or 24cm and 28cm in my part of the world.
I would go for the solid cast iron skillet rather than one with a wooden handle. Here is a link to check out the prices on Amazon (affiliate link). With a metal handle, you can use your skillet in the oven as well. I have matte black Staub to match my vintage cast iron, but the frying pans come in pretty colors as well.
The cast iron is heavier than Le Creuset, and Staub cookware is beautifully enameled. The glaze also protects modern hobs from scratches. However, it would be prudent to check with your stove manufacturer before using cast iron cookware.
- Please note: no cookware can totally prevent scratches on hobs such as glass and ceramic induction.
Why buy a Staub skillet?
- Exceptional quality both in terms of the interior and exterior of the pan.
- The pan is perfect for browning and searing meat.
- The enamel is resistant to thermal shocks, scratching, and it does not require any seasoning.
- It is dishwasher safe and is perfect for day-to-day tasks.
Staub perfect pans
The Staub Perfect Pan is the perfect addition to any kitchen. Staub pans can be thrown in the dishwasher, unlike bare cast iron. They come in a wide array of colors, including the signature matte black. But the braising pans also come in the popular graphite grey, grenadine, and basil colors. While the thick glass lid contains splatters, and you can keep an eye on your food cooking.
Click here to check the current price on Amazon (affiliate link).
Features to look for
- With a large capacity that can suit all your cooking needs, the 2.75-quart pans are perfect for day-to-day cooking. And the 4-quart is ideal for large gatherings and families.
- The pan is oven safe in temperatures of close to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.
- The smooth enamel bottom ensures that the pan is safe for use on any stovetop surface. It also eliminates the need for seasoning.
- Unlike traditional cast iron cookware, the sauté pan is dishwasher safe.
- Each pan comes with a lid that is tight-fitting to retain moisture. This prevents humidity from escaping, making meals juicy and flavorful.
- The cover has a brass knob on the matte black pots and nickel-plated on the colored braisers. These knobs can accommodate very high temperatures, so make sure to keep a tea towel or oven mitt close by.
Staub ceramics
Just like the cast iron products, Staub ceramics also undergo the same quality tests and standards. The ceramic range delivers the same quality at a much lower price than cast iron. You can see my baking dishes (affiliate link) in the photos. They are quality ceramics with a bit of weight to them. I have the blue and green baking dishes, but I love the rustic ones too. Some features of Staub ceramics include.
- Staub ceramic are nonporous and do not absorb any food odors.
- Scratch-resistant – the ceramic range seems to be really scratch-resistant from my experience.
- Fingermark resistant – despite having a shiny gloss, the Staub ceramic range seems to hide any greasy fingerprint marks.
Features to look out for
- Features that meet your everyday needs: easy storage, stackable, ergonomic handles so you can move your cookware from one place to another with ease.
- Versatility, Staub ceramics can go from the freezer and straight in the oven without the need to defrost.
- With a wide selection of colors, therefore you can match your Staub cast iron cookware.
Staub bakeware
Staub cookware has a selection of bakeware that included
- ramekins
- pie dishes
- baking dishes
- bowls
Features to look for
- All the bakeware is oven safe in up to temperatures of 500°F.
- Dishwasher safe.
- Thick to ensure cookware is hard to chip.
- Highly resistant to impact shock.
- Made heavy to ensure the baking dishes have thermal mass to retain heat.
Staub bowls
Staub bowls come in a range of different colors. All the Staub colors blend in seamlessly with all your Staub cast iron cookware. The different sizes of the bowls also stack perfectly, making them easy to store.
Features
- Safe in the oven and can withstand temperatures of up to 572º F.
- Resistant to scratching.
- Thermal shock and are impact resistant.
- Safe to use in the microwave, broiler, oven, and freezer.
- The polished surface does not scratch easily.
Conclusion
Staub cookware is definitely more expensive than competing brands. Sure labor, the material cost comes into play. But is Staub cookware worth the extra price? Remember, the cookware is professional-grade and is less likely to chip and break compared to other brands. It also looks fantastic, and Staub workers are experts in enameling cast-iron. Only Le Creuset can compare to the enamel finish on cast-iron cookware. And even though Staub ceramics are made in China, they have not scrimped on the material to ensure the bakeware can handle any of your baking needs.
Is Staub cookware worth it? It totally is.
