My opinion on the Le Creuset mini cocottes

Le Creuset's mini-cocottes are a real hit: they are beautiful, easy to store and truly versatile. Although we often hear people say "Everyone says they are good for everything... but what are they really for?". That's why Laura, author of the gastroblog Because, talks to us about them today, and gives us many ideas so you can get the most out of them!

I must be honest and admit that it took me a long time to decide to buy the mini-cocottes from Le Creuset. The truth is that, although they have never been an expensive product — quite the opposite — I thought they were just another indulgence rather than a kitchen tool.

But when the oval minis arrived at Claudia&Julia (and so hard to find... ¡and they have them exclusively in Spain!), I couldn't resist the design and finally bought them. The big surprise is that, besides being gorgeous, they are one of the kitchen tools I use the most.

They have a perfect single-portion size and I use them almost as much as plates... well, maybe more, because unlike plates, the mini-cocottes withstand high oven temperatures, so at home they often serve as both tool and tableware in the same recipe.

Features

We have the round ones, the oval ones (now available in two sizes, 13cm and 17cm!) and also the mini-heart (these last ones are definitely perfect for surprising a partner, or for a very original little gift!)

They all have colors and quality that you fall in love with: you know they're Le Creuset, so the quality of the ceramic and the interior glaze are among the best you can find. You should even know that each knob is hand-painted! The company's care and dedication are outstanding.

Both the oval and the 13cm round ones are the same price, although the oval ones have slightly more capacity (which for me was a point in their favor). As for the new oval size, the 17cm, I found it really interesting: while the 13cm ones were enough for appetizers and a first course, the 17cm certainly allows you to serve a complete dish, but with a lot of style.

Regarding characteristics, I should also clarify that all the mini-cocottes, unlike the "standard" cocottes, are ceramic. They are not cast iron nor do they have an iron heat-diffusing base, so they cannot be used on the stovetop: they are intended for cooking in the oven, in the microwave, or for serving appetizers and cold dishes.

The fact that they come with a lid is an advantage for storing in the fridge, as it keeps your preparation free from other odors. And maintenance? It couldn't be easier, because being ceramic they are dishwasher safe.

The only downside to this product is that it's hard to decide between the range of colors and sizes... but I'll tell you a secret: whichever one you choose, you'll be delighted with them and you'll use them a lot, that's for sure!

Recipes and inspiration for presenting in the mini-cocottes

Now that the good weather is here, they are ideal for serving at the table cold dishes such as ceviches, marinated dishes, cheese creams or homemade pâtés. Not to mention other dishes we can bake and serve directly, such as lasagnas, eggs en casserole, roasted potatoes...Any dish you can bake in a ceramic baking dish, you can cook in these beautiful mini casseroles and bring it to the table in an original way that won’t leave anyone indifferent, whether guests or family at home.

Also, although I now mainly present savory dishes in them (even salad), the first use I gave them was for desserts. Desserts presented in them look spectacular. Try making brownie-style cakes or chocolate coulant; in fact, they look so good that it's a great idea to bring one of these desserts in the mini cocottes if you're a guest. Easy to transport, beautiful to give as a gift. Other desserts like crème brûlée, custard, or even tiramisu also find their ideal container in these little casseroles.

In the photo, chocolate coulant in oval mini-casserole

Here are some recipes you can make in Le Creuset mini-cocottes:

- Chocolate coulant in a mini-casserole

- Raspberry crème brûlée

- Cherry tomato and cheese clafoutis

- Chocolate cake with raspberry sauce

- Oeufs en cocotte

- Individual chicken and bacon pie

- Shepherd's-style meat pie

- Truffled eggs with mushrooms

- Cheese soufflé

- Chicken lasagna

And if you want more, there is also a Le Creuset mini-casserole recipe book, available, with 40 recipes both sweet and savory. If you look at the reviews, the truth is I see that all the opinions are really good, and I think you'll find plenty of inspiration there to get the most out of these minis that are so beautiful.