Care & Usage

At Mamie Cocottes, we have chosen enamelled cast iron for its unique ability to enhance flavours, its unmatched durability, and its timeless design which naturally fits into every kitchen. Our casserole dishes, Dutch ovens, grills, and roasting trays are designed to last for generations, while bringing cooking pleasure, ease of use and elegance to your table.

But to fully enjoy all the benefits of enamelled cast iron, it is essential to follow a few simple steps every day.

In this section, you will find all our care and usage tips to maintain the performance of your casserole dishes, protect their beautiful enamel, and extend their lifespan without losing any of their charm… or their efficiency.

Nettoyage doux d’une cocotte en fonte émaillée à la main, recommandé pour préserver l’émail et prolonger la durée de vie de la cocotte

Before first use

Upon receiving your enamelled cast iron frying pan or casserole, it is essential to clean it to remove any dust or manufacturing residue. Use warm soapy water and a soft sponge to gently clean the surface. Make sure to dry the cookware thoroughly after cleaning to avoid any traces of moisture.

Unlike raw cast iron, our enamelled cast iron casseroles and frying pans do not require any seasoning. The enamel already forms a protective barrier against moisture and food residues. To prolong their lifespan, always dry your cookware immediately after washing. As an additional precaution (not mandatory), you can apply a light coating of olive oil to the interior to further protect against rust.

Mamie Cocottes enamelled cast iron cookware is compatible with all hob types: gas, electric, ceramic, induction, as well as traditional ovens (electric, gas, wood, coal, oil).

They can also be used on an open fire. However, to preserve the enamel, we recommend avoiding direct contact with flames or embers and favouring use on a grill or trivet. For cooking directly in the embers, it is best to use raw cast iron cookware.

If you are using a ceramic or induction hob, avoid sliding your casserole or frying pan: always lift it to prevent damaging the hob surface or the base of the cookware.

For optimal performance, always match the flame size or heating zone to the diameter of the base of your cookware.This ensures an even heat distribution while protecting the handles and side walls from overheating. On gas, the flames should never extend beyond the edges of the base. Finally, make sure that the handles or grips are not in direct contact with a heat source.

Cocotte en fonte émaillée au four supportant des températures élevées, avec bouton de couvercle résistant jusqu’à 250°C

Oven use

Casserole dishes or roasting pans with cast iron handles can be used in the oven at any temperature. However, when using lids with stainless steel knobs, do not exceed the limit of 250°C.

If you have cookware with wooden components they are not suitable for oven use.

Grill en fonte émaillée sur feu gaz permettant une saisie parfaite des viandes, une cuisson homogène et des marques de grill authentiques

Grilling: instructions for use

Grill pans and ridged frying pans require preheating empty (without food or oil) before use to reach the temperature needed for caramelisation or searing.

Never preheat oil on its own in a cold pan, as this can cause smoking and damage the enamel.
Place your grill on medium heat and allow it to heat for a few minutes.
To test the heat, sprinkle a few drops of water: if they sizzle immediately, the surface is ready.
Once hot, lightly spray oil (or brush on with a silicone brush) before adding your food.
For perfect grill marks, allow the food to cook without moving it until it releases naturally.

Fry & sauté

For perfect frying or sautéing, it is important to gently heat the oil and the pan at the same time.

The oil is ready when it shimmers slightly.
For butter, wait until it foams or small bubbles appear.

This ensures controlled cooking without overheating.

Ensemble dix usensiles en bois et en silicone noir

Recommended cookware

To preserve the enamel of your cookware, opt for silicone or wooden spatulas and spoons.

Avoid metal utensils that could scratch the surface.
Never bang your accessories against the rim.

Do not use electric whisks or cut food inside the cookware.

Ovens with cast iron base

In the case of an oven with a cast iron interior base, avoid placing your casserole dish or roasting pan directly on the bottom: this could cause overly rapid cooking, compromising the flavour quality. Always place your cookware on a rack or baking tray.

Precautions with handles and knobs

Whether in the oven or on the hob, the cast iron handles and stainless steel knobs can become very hot. Always use oven gloves or thick tea towels to handle your casserole dish or frying pan safely.

Also remember to regularly tighten the screws on the handles or knobs if necessary.

The stainless steel knobs on our casserole dishes and frying pans can withstand heat up to 250°C maximum. Beyond this, they may become damaged. We therefore recommend avoiding very high oven temperatures to maintain the longevity of your products.

Cleaning & maintenance

Do not try to remove the patina formed with use: it acts as a protective and non-stick layer.
Wait until the cookware has cooled down slightly before washing it.
After standard cooking, simply rinse with hot water and dry with a damp cloth.
For a deeper clean, use hot soapy water. If residues remain, soak before scrubbing with a soft brush (ideal for cleaning between grill ridges).
Never use abrasive pads or harsh cleaning products.
For exterior marks (burnt-on grease, etc.), a nylon scourer or a specialist enamel cleaner will do the job.

It is important to dry enamelled cast iron products after each wash for several reasons:

Prevent rust : even though the enamel protects the cast iron, the uncoated edges (for example, around the lid or where the handles join) remain vulnerable to moisture. If water is left to sit, small rust spots may appear.

Handy tip: apply a thin layer of olive oil to the sensitive areas as well as the inside of your casserole dish. This simple step creates a protective barrier and effectively prevents rust.
Avoid water marks and limescale deposits : water left on the surface can leave white marks or dull the shine of the enamel over time.
Ensuring enamel longevity : thorough drying helps maintain a smooth, glossy surface, free from residues or deposits that could affect its appearance.
Hygiene and odours : trapped moisture can cause unpleasant odours or bacterial growth, especially if the lid is replaced before the casserole dish is completely dry.

Dishwasher

Casseroles and frying pans with cast iron handles or grips are dishwasher safe, but repeated washing may slow down the development of the natural seasoning and damage the enamel.