Seasoning Terracotta Before Use
Clay cooking pots and cups are used by many different cultures. Clay cookware is used extensively in Indian, Middle Eastern and African cuisine. In addition to curing or seasoning a clay pot before using it the first time, some special care must be taken when cooking with clay. Clay is a soft material that must be handled gently. Avoid pouring hot liquids into a cold clay pot (and vice versa) or placing a cold clay vessel into a hot oven. The extreme change in temperature can cause the clay to crack.
We recommend using a mesh heat diffuser if using a seasoned pot on a gas hob at all times and start with a low flame to allow it to heat up gently.
Step 1
Soak the clay pot in a clean bucket of water for 24 hours.
Step 2
Remove the pot from the water and stand for 10-15 minutes.
Step 3
Wipe all the unglazed areas of the pot with a paper towel lightly dipped in olive / vegetable oil.
Step 4
Place the oiled pot on the center rack in a cold oven and turn the heat to 225 degrees centigrade. Allow it to bake for 2 to 3 hours, beginning from the time your oven reached the appropriate temperature. Turn off the heat and leave the pot in the oven until it is completely cool.
After use, clean with warm water with a small amount of detergent. Repeat step 3 of the above process occasionally before use as the detergent will remove the oil from the pot surface.
