Knob knowledge
Some cast-iron Dutch ovens come with metal knobs on the lids; others have knobs made of a composite known as phenolic. The phenolic lids are said by manufacturers to be fine at temperatures up to 400; but cookbook author Yarnell and The Cupboard’s Erickson say phenolic can withstand higher temperatures. Erickson carries extra stainless knobs for people who prefer them on their Dutch ovens. “But I have never had a knob come back, and know people are firing them up to 450 or 500.”
The one thing to remember about all cast iron pans: They’re just as good at conducting heat into your skin as they are at conducting it into your food – especially those metal knobs. So be careful out there. It’s easy to forget that the handle of a cast iron skillet gets hot even when it’s not over the burner.
