Pottery has a rich and enduring connection to the culinary arts, offering both practical tools and aesthetically pleasing pieces that enhance our cooking and dining experiences. From baking dishes that cradle our favorite casseroles to fermentation crocks that transform simple ingredients into culinary delights, pottery plays a vital role in how we prepare, preserve, and enjoy food. You can find great designs for the kitchen that will inspire you.
When it comes to baking, the choice of clay is paramount. Stoneware is a popular choice for baking dishes because it’s fired at high temperatures (2,200°F to 2,400°F), resulting in a dense, durable, and non-porous material when properly glazed. Its strength can withstand oven temperatures, making it a reliable option for everything from pies to roasts, though it’s best to avoid sudden temperature changes to prevent cracking. Porcelain, known for its refined density and smooth surface, is another excellent choice. Fired at extremely high temperatures, porcelain is naturally food-safe. However, like stoneware, it appreciates a gentle approach to temperature changes. Earthenware, being more porous and fired at lower temperatures, can also be used, but it absolutely requires a food-safe glaze to prevent leaching and careful handling due to its lower resistance to thermal shock.
The right type of pottery can make a huge difference in the kitchen, improving the taste and preservation of food, as well as the ease of the cooking process.
Beyond baking, fermentation crocks stand as testaments to pottery’s historical role in food preservation. Cultures around the world have relied on these earthenware vessels to transform and extend the life of their harvests. In Korea, onggi crocks are essential for making kimchi, a communal tradition that ensures families have this staple dish throughout the winter. China utilizes pickle jars with water-sealed rims to create the anaerobic environment needed for perfectly pickled vegetables. In Japan, crocks are fundamental in the production of miso and tsukemono, adding depth and complexity to their cuisine. Germany relies on fermentation crocks to create sauerkraut, a tangy and nutritious staple. Even in Southeast Asia, large earthenware crocks are used to ferment fish into the umami-rich fish sauce that seasons countless dishes. If you’re interested, learn more about pottery in the kitchen.
The porosity of pottery significantly affects its culinary applications. Porous clay allows for breathability and moisture control, which is fantastic for slow cooking and food storage. It helps distribute heat evenly and retain moisture, enhancing flavors in slow-cooked meals. However, this porosity also means that flavors and odors can be absorbed over time. To mitigate this, seasoning your pottery before first use is a good idea. Proper cleaning, avoiding harsh soaps, and gradual temperature changes are crucial to maintaining the integrity of your pottery. You may even want to explore crafting your own everyday pottery.
There are many reasons to choose cooking with pottery, but there are also things to keep in mind to ensure the best experience!
Pottery is an excellent option, and is used all around the world, so you should learn to utilize it as well!
To ensure your pottery lasts and remains safe to use, proper cleaning and maintenance are essential. Seasoning unglazed clay pots by soaking them in water and baking them in the oven can increase their durability. Handwashing with mild soap and warm water is always recommended, and harsh temperature changes should be avoided to prevent cracking. It’s also important to be aware of potential health risks associated with certain glazes. Lead and cadmium, sometimes used in glazes, can leach into food, posing serious health risks. Always ensure that your pottery is made with food-safe glazes and fired properly to prevent any harmful substances from contaminating your food.
