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How to Season a Clay Cooking Pot

Seasoning a clay cooking pot is essential to enhance its durability, prevent cracking, and improve its cooking performance. Proper seasoning also helps to remove any impurities and ensures that the pot develops a natural non-stick surface over time. Follow these steps to season your clay pot before first use:

Step 1: Soaking

Submerge the clay pot and its lid completely in water.
Allow it to soak for 8 to 12 hours or overnight. This process helps the clay absorb moisture, preventing it from cracking during cooking.
After soaking, remove the pot and let it air dry for about an hour

Step 2: Applying Oil

Using a soft cloth or paper towel, rub a thin layer of cooking oil (such as sesame oil, coconut oil, or olive oil) all over the inner surface of the pot and lid.
Allow the oil to soak into the clay for a few hours.

Step 3: Slow Heating

Place the clay pot on the stove over low heat.
Fill it halfway with water and bring it to a gentle simmer for about 30 minutes.
Turn off the heat and allow the pot to cool naturally.
Discard the water and wipe the pot dry with a clean cloth.

Step 4: Drying and Storage

Let the pot air dry completely before storing it.
Store it in a dry, ventilated area to prevent mold or mildew.

Additional Tips:

Always start cooking on low heat and gradually increase the temperature.
Avoid using metal utensils, as they can scratch the clay surface.
Hand wash your pot with warm water and a soft sponge; avoid using soap or harsh detergents.
Over time, your pot will develop a rich patina, enhancing its cooking performance and flavor infusion.

By following these steps, your clay cooking pot will be well-seasoned and ready to bring out the best flavors in your dishes!

How to Season a Clay Water Pot Before First Use

Seasoning your clay water pot is essential to remove impurities, enhance durability, and prevent cracks. It also helps improve the natural taste of water. Follow these easy steps to season your clay pot:

Step 1: Wash the Pot Thoroughly

Rinse the pot under running water to remove any dust or loose clay particles.
Avoid using soap or detergents as clay absorbs chemicals.
Use a soft brush or sponge if necessary.

Step 2: Soak the Pot Completely

Fill a large bucket or container with clean water.
Submerge the pot (including the lid) completely in water.
Let it soak for 24-48 hours. This step helps strengthen the clay and prevents cracking.
The pot may release a bit of clay color initially, which is completely normal.

Step 3: Dry the Pot Naturally

After soaking, remove the pot from water and let it air-dry in a shaded area (not directly under the sun).
Avoid using cloth to wipe it dry, as it may leave lint.
Drying it naturally prevents cracks and strengthens the clay.

Step 4: Fill with Water and Discard (Optional)

Fill the pot with drinking water and leave it for 24 hours.
Discard the water the next day. This step helps eliminate any earthy or clay taste.
Repeat this step once if you still notice any strong earthy taste.

Step 5: Ready to Use!

Your clay pot is now seasoned and ready to be filled with drinking water.
Place it in a cool, shaded area to maintain the natural cooling effect.
Always use a wooden or plastic ladle to scoop water to avoid internal damage.

Bonus Tips for Maintaining a Clay Water Pot

Clean Regularly: Wash the pot once every 2-3 days with plain water and a soft brush. Avoid soaps.
Avoid Direct Sunlight: Keep the pot in a shaded area to prevent cracks due to temperature fluctuations.
Change Water Daily: For the freshest and cleanest water, change it daily.
Season Once a Month: Soak the pot in water for 4-5 hours once every month to maintain its cooling effect and strength.

Why Seasoning is Important

Prevents Cracks by strengthening the clay.
Enhances Taste by reducing any earthy or muddy flavor.
Improves Durability ensuring your pot lasts for years.
Healthier Water as seasoning clears impurities from the clay.

Pro Tip:

Never use soap or chemicals to clean your pot. Stick to natural cleaning methods like soaking or scrubbing with water.