How to Use and Care for Clay Pots

maio 30, 2022
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What to Do Before Cooking with Clay Pieces

Before using a clay pot for the first time, you should completely submerge both the pot and its lid in water for at least 15 minutes before putting any food inside.

Since clay is a porous material, it will absorb moisture during this soaking process.

After soaking, you can place the food inside the pot and put it on the heat. This soaking is important because as the pot heats up slowly, the clay releases steam from its pores, which gently cooks the food. This prevents the food from drying out. The natural juices and flavors of the food will be preserved, along with all the nutrients.

Be mindful of the temperature! Sudden changes in temperature can cause cracks in the clay cookware. Always place the clay pot in the center of a cold oven and let it heat up gradually with the oven. Ensure the clay does not touch the sides of the oven. When cooking with clay, the heat should be medium or low. Start with low heat and increase the temperature gradually over 5 minutes or more.

What to Do During Cooking with Clay Pieces

The recommended oven temperature is between 190°C and 250°C, according to the recipe. Since moist clay does not get as hot as metal pans, you should cook for an additional 20 minutes to account for the time needed to heat the oven.

For clay pots, the oven temperature should be set on average 40°C higher than usual. If the food takes longer to cook, use less heat. If you want the food to be crispy, remove the lid during the last 10 to 20 minutes of cooking.

Never add cold ingredients or water to a hot clay pot, as this can cause the pot to crack. If you need to add more liquid during cooking, only add hot liquid.

What to Do After Cooking with Clay Pieces

Use protective gloves when removing a clay pot from the oven. Place the hot pot on a heat-resistant protective surface after taking it out of the oven. Never place a hot pot on a cold surface, as the thermal shock can cause the clay to crack. Carefully lift the lid to avoid being burned by the escaping steam.

How to Clean Clay Pots?

While some say it’s okay to put them in a dishwasher, it is recommended to wash clay pots by hand. Extreme temperatures and harsh detergents can remove the seasoning and damage the clay pots.

Let the clay pot cool completely after being removed from the oven and soak it in warm water for a few minutes to loosen any food residue. To remove stuck-on food, use hot water without detergent and a soft abrasive cloth. To neutralize strong odors, fill the pot with warm water and add two tablespoons of baking soda. Let the pot soak for at least 15 minutes (use three tablespoons of baking soda per liter of hot water).