Red Casseroles

Let's take a look at a few common ones:

• Cast iron is durable and oven safe. Plus, food cooked in the cast iron dish can absorb some extra iron - a bonus for those who need it. Enamelled cast iron is great for even heating and preventing food from burning.

• Stainless steel is easy to clean – just pop it in the dishwasher. It can withstand high temperatures, but also burn food easily. So remember to add a little more fat.

• Copper has the advantage of both heating up and cooling down quickly. This gives your food a delicious sear in no time.

• Aluminium a fast-heating material, but be sure to use a coated dish, as too much aluminium can be harmful.

To avoid burns, go for a dish with a silicone handle - but keep in mind that it can't be used in the oven.

Some features make the dish easier to use. Check them out:

• Non-stick coating makes cooking easy - your food won't stick, and you can use less oil.

• A spout is great for pouring sauces and liquids without making a mess.

• An integrated strainer makes it easy to drain water without losing any of your delicious food.

• A dishwasher-safe casserole dish saves both time and energy. Stainless steel dishes are especially easy to clean in the dishwasher.