Use this traditional cast-iron Dutch oven to prepare hearty soups, stews, chili and pot roast. The generous 6.5-quart size is large enough to cook for the whole family and lends itself to easy one-pot meals. Cast iron is one of the best choices for slow cooking. Because cast iron distributes heat slowly and evenly, it is ideal for tenderizing meats, browning poultry, sautéing onions, simmering sauces and steaming vegetables. It's also great for making spicy chili and other stews. Without its lid, the versatile pot can also be used for baking.