How to Season Clay Cookware
Follow these simple steps before your first use to ensure your clay pots last a lifetime.
The 24-Hour Soak
Immerse your new clay cookware completely in a bucket or sink full of normal temperature water. Leave it submerged for at least 24 hours. This allows the porous clay to absorb water, which prevents it from cracking when exposed to heat.
Sun Dry Completely
Remove the pot from the water and let it dry naturally under direct sunlight for 3 to 4 hours, or until it is completely bone dry. Do not wipe it with a towel; let the air and sun do the work.
Oil Application
Once dry, generously apply cooking oil (mustard, olive, or vegetable oil) to both the inside and outside of the pot, including the lid. Make sure every inch is coated evenly.
The First Heat (Curing)
Fill the pot up to 3/4th with water (or rice starch water for better results) and place it on your stove on the lowest heat setting. Let it simmer for 30 minutes, then turn off the heat and let it cool naturally. Wash with plain water, and your pot is now ready for daily cooking!
