The oval shape makes them perfect for poultry or larger cuts. The heavy tight fitting lid's allow for the moisture to remain inside the pot resulting in delicious tender restaurant quality meals. You can use this for all your roasting, braising, frying, & basting. The unique shape of this cookware makes them a chef's favorite. Easy to use and clean your Le Creuset oval French oven will quickly become a favorite in your own kitchen. Since 1925, Le Creuset has been handcrafting Enameled Cast Iron cookware with very little change to process, and particularly Round French Ovens (or Dutch Ovens), in Northern France. This experience has made them industry leaders in cast iron cookware where many have imitated the Le Creuset product but never duplicated. Through Superb heat retention even the toughest cuts of meat will melt in your mouth! This hard enameled coating is stick resistant making cleaning a breeze, no need for time consuming cleaning or scrubbing. Functionality is the main aspect of this cast iron cookware but the beautiful design makes this the focal point of any kitchen or home!