Skip Pyrex: The Valuable Le Creuset Pot That We Want In Our Homes

Sure, vintage Pyrex is quality, collector-worthy kitchenware, but what if there's a more recent item by another name brand that you've been sleeping on? It's time to get acquainted with the bean pot by Le Creuset. It was first introduced in 2012 but has since been discontinued, so while it's not considered vintage, finding one while thrifting could save you a ton of money. If you're into specialty cookware that doubles as a conversation piece and a collector's item, this retired bean pot needs to be on your radar.

You can find Le Creuset bean pots on sites like eBay and Etsy if you want to browse for a specific color. The pricing varies greatly depending on the seller, color or size variations, or the product's condition (like if it's missing its lid). To give you an idea, they can range from around $50 to $150 or even more. Like when thrifting for vintage items, when you want to buy secondhand Le Creuset, you need to be on the lookout for knock-offs being sold for the same prices as the actual name-brand products. Look for "LE CREUSET" spelled correctly on the lid and on the bottom of the pot to verify authenticity. 

From what can be gathered about this nouveau heritage Le Creuset item, it was made from quality enameled cast iron, produced in a variety of colors, came in a few size options, and had distinctive design notes that set it apart from other well-known products that are still sold, such as the mini cocottes or rice pot. Between the lantern handles, the ringed sides, and the curved silhouette, the bean pot is just as much a staple piece of cookware as it is a piece of decor. In the subreddit r/LeCreuset, users remarked about the versatility of the humble bean pot. Of course it could be used to cook things like baked beans in the oven, but it was also ideal for cooking and displaying a variety of dips, soups, and stews thanks to its heat-holding properties and ability to go in the oven.

Other users discussed repurposing the pot for cute kitchen countertop storage. Imagine filling it with cookies, candy, or miscellaneous items you want to keep accessible but out-of-sight (like food bag clips or dishwasher pods). Depending on the size you find, you could even use it to hold loose sugar, ground coffee or coffee beans, tea bags, or coffee filters. If you do plan to store food items inside, you may want to add a rubber or silicone gasket seal to the underside of the lid to preserve freshness. You can find a bunch of different sizes on Amazon depending on the diameter of the pot lid.