Test 1: Quality

When it comes to quality, both the cast iron Perfect Pot and heirloom dutch oven excel. The Perfect Pot is crafted with 100% cast iron premium enamel, which ensures exceptional heat retention and even heat distribution. I’ve gotten consistent cooking results whether simmering soups, slow-cooking tender roasts, baking casseroles, or cooking eggs (yes – it’s good for that, too!). Similarly, heirloom dutch ovens pride themselves on superb craftsmanship that stands the test of time, and I’ll give them that – I’ve been eating meals made in this thing since I was a kid, and it still works wonders today.

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Test 2: Design

The Perfect Pot boasts the same contemporary-yet-timeless design as all Our Place’s must-haves. It’s gorgeous on the outside (available in the brand’s classic colors like Blue Salt and Lavender) and stunning on the inside, too. Its multifunctionality and thoughtful details, along with the included accessories like a self-basting lid, custom Hot Grips and nesting Beachwood Scraper, make it a versatile companion that seamlessly transitions from stovetop to oven. In contrast, while my parents’ dutch oven has a nostalgic charm, it lacks the customizable options and modern design elements I’m looking for as a twenty-something.

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Part 3: Price

As I mentioned before, I’m not averse to investing in quality products – but only for the right reasons. That’s exactly what I love about Our Place. The Cast Iron Perfect Pot is $175, less than half the price of my parents’ dutch oven. While of course I’ll have to wait and see if it withstands the test of time, I’ve been impressed with the quality of food I’ve cooked in it so far – and I’ve been using a few other Our Place products for years and they’re still in great shape.

Test 4: Upkeep

This wasn’t initially a factor in my decision-making, but maintaining the CIPP is so easy that I’d recommend factoring it into yours. Its premium enamel coating eliminates the need for seasoning, and cleaning it is an absolute breeze. I’ve used it several times on a number of messy and time intensive recipes, and it’s maintained its pristine appearance. My parents’ dutch oven is quite stained and crusted (granted it has been around for much longer), and it requires some serious elbow grease to clean. Messes practically side off the Cast Iron Perfect Pot, though. Super low maintenance without compromising on quality? Sign me up.