Porcelain Enamel Cast Iron: Surprising Heat Retention Tested In a kitchen experiment designed to probe the secrets of heat retention, porcelain enamel cast iron emerged as a quiet powerhouse. The Lodge 6 Quart and 7.5 Quart Dutch ovens, with their burnt sienna and poppy finishes, not only survived the test but excelled in their ability to hold and radiate warmth, keeping food hot for hours after being removed from the oven. Contrast this with the sleek glass seasoning jars and small spice containers, which, while elegant for storage, failed to match the cast iron's endurance-cooling within minutes. The stainless steel soup ladles, though sturdy and ergonomic, proved less effective at maintaining temperature, their metal handles quickly losing grip on heat. What began as a simple comparison of kitchenware soon revealed a surprising truth: porcelain enamel cast iron isn't just about durability or aesthetics-it's a timeless ally in the fight to keep meals warm, from the stove to the table.