Difference Between a Calphalon Dutch Oven and Saucier

Saucier Construction

• The biggest difference between Calphalon's Dutch oven and saucier is the type of material used. The saucier has a copper exterior, a layer of aluminum in the middle and a stainless-steel interior. The copper and aluminum on the outer two layers of the saucier conduct heat quickly to the interior of the pan. This is critical for temperature control when making sauces in the pan. Unlike Calphalon's two Dutch oven types, the saucier does not have a nonstick coating inside, just a stainless steel interior. The lid for the saucier is stainless steel.

Dutch Oven Construction

• Calphalon's Contemporary Dutch oven is made of hard-anodized aluminum on the exterior with a traditional nonstick coating inside. The handles are made of stainless steel. This construction differs from the materials used in the Unison Dutch oven. The same hard-anodized aluminum makes up the exterior, and the handles are also stainless steel, but Unison Dutch ovens have a proprietary dual-nonstick coating. This coating lets you sear the food without it sticking to the interior of the pan. Both types of Dutch oven have tempered glass lids with stainless steel trim.

Uses

• You can use either type of Dutch oven or the saucier on top of the stove or in the oven up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. The Unison Dutch oven can withstand temperatures up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit while the other pans cannot. If you are putting the pan under the broiler, you must use the saucier. The saucier and the Unison Dutch oven can both be used for searing, but the traditional nonstick coating on the inside of the Contemporary Dutch oven cannot sear foods.

Cleaning

• When cleaning a Calphalon saucier or Dutch oven, hand-washing is recommended to avoid damaging the traditional nonstick coating of the Contemporary Dutch oven and the copper exterior of the saucier. Only the Unison Dutch oven can be safely put into the dishwasher. Proper care of your saucier or Dutch oven will prevent it from being scratched and prolong its life.