Why this casserole & stew pan earns its place
Cast iron is the workhorse of catering kitchens—it retains heat evenly, handles the thermal shock of stovetop-to-oven work, and improves with use. The LAVA range by Combisteel brings that reliability into a form that professional cooks trust. At 24cm across and 6kg, this size slots into smaller stations and prep areas without dominating bench space, yet it's substantial enough for batch braises, stews and sauce reduction that feeds a section.
The weight is intentional. Cast iron's mass means it holds temperature steadily—meat browns properly, liquid simmers rather than boils off, and delicate reductions don't catch. It's the thermal ballast that electric pans can't match. This casserole sits equally at home on a gas burner, induction hob or in a 200°C oven (the professional standard for braising). Once seasoned, it requires only a wipe and dry between services, no scrubbing, no chemicals.
Red enamel finish adds visibility in a busy pass—you know where the sauce is without hunting. Cast iron's reputation for longevity is earned: these pieces outlast three kitchen renovations. Buy one now and it'll still be earning its place in ten years.
