Dutch ovens wouldn't be practical in many fantasy settings.
The main issue is the length of time it takes for things to cook. You've got to get a fire going for coals which takes time and also alerts potential enemies or predatory creatures. Most folks traveling around in fantasy novels aren't undertaking their journeys as pleasure tours and usually they're traveling through dangerous areas.
Likewise even for nomadic peoples who might find the time to use it, a cast-iron pot would be an extreme luxury given the weight.
So I think dutch ovens in a fantasy setting would probably serve the same purpose they often did for your family: serving foppish urban aristocrats tasty food whilst afield!
I agree that dutch ovens are capable of truly remarkable food.
The main issue is the length of time it takes for things to cook. You've got to get a fire going for coals which takes time and also alerts potential enemies or predatory creatures. Most folks traveling around in fantasy novels aren't undertaking their journeys as pleasure tours and usually they're traveling through dangerous areas.
Likewise even for nomadic peoples who might find the time to use it, a cast-iron pot would be an extreme luxury given the weight.
So I think dutch ovens in a fantasy setting would probably serve the same purpose they often did for your family: serving foppish urban aristocrats tasty food whilst afield!
I agree that dutch ovens are capable of truly remarkable food.