Mon Petit Chou

It was a productive weekend in Quarter Century land. Carving pumpkins with the nephews always proves to be a fun time. Ironically, two little boys really dislike getting their hands dirty by digging out the pumpkin guts (or "Brraaaaainsssss" as their favorite aunt calls them), while a twenty-something favorite aunt enjoys the gore immensely.

This twenty-something favorite aunt celebrated the death and dismemberment of the four pumpkin soldiers with a trip to Cook's Corner in Green Bay.

Really, the two activities are unrelated, but I have to have an entree to introduce you to the newest member of my family. Drumroll please...

I give you, Mon Petit Chou, or, Staub Child as I've come to lovingly refer to this ridiculously expensive, yet never overated, cast iron enameled cookware.



Isn't she pretty?

In the words of those in the know, "Le Creuset is for the masses; Staub is for those in the know."

"What's the difference?" you ask.

Go ahead. I'll wait.

Well, I'm glad you asked. You see, Staub browns better than Le Creuset. Not necessary for some recipes, sure, but definitely better for some.

Also, see those black bumps on the inside of the lid? Those little babies take all the juicy condensation that happens during cooking and drops it back down into your stew, chili, Coq au Vin, whathaveyou.

That's called Self-Basting, kids.

The interior of the Staub pot, unlike Le Creuset, also allows for seasoning over time like any great cast iron cookware. Ms. Q's gonna make some darn fine fried chicken in this little baby, let me tell you.

If you'd like to add a little Staub to your family, I'd suggest heading over to Cook's Corner in Green Bay. This $400 pot was half off and included the Baby 1/2 qt. Staubs you see in the picture.

Those little guys are gonna make a mean queso dip.

Have I peaked your envy yet? Are you ready to bring your taste buds over for dinner? Better yet, would you like a Staub Child of your own?

Lemme just say that, unlike a real kid, your Staub Child will not cost you a quarter of a million dollars by the time it turns 18. Also, if Staub Child is 18, or 20, or even 30 and is still living at home with its parents, I guarantee you'll view that as a success.

Note: The enameled cast iron pan in the back of the shot is not Staub, but still another great 50% Off find at Cook's Corner. Seriously, you should check 'em out.