Must-Know Tips Before Cooking in Clay Pots
Lifestyle
Cooking in clay pots offers many health benefits, but if not used properly, it can harm your health. Know these essential tips before using earthenware in your kitchen.
The use of clay pots is very beneficial for health, but it is equally important to use them correctly. If they are not used properly, the food cooked in it can prove to be harmful for health. Here we are sharing some important tips, which should be kept in mind before and after using clay pots.
Things to keep in mind before using clay pots
1. Cook on low flame: Clay pots can crack if kept on high flame. Therefore, always use them on low flame.
2. Avoid glaze (coating): Nowadays, many clay pots available in the market have a shiny coating, which is called glaze. It may contain lead or other chemicals which are dangerous for health. Always buy utensils without coating or ensure that the utensil is "lead-free".
3. 'Seasoning' is necessary before first use: Soak the clay pot in water for 8–12 hours before using it for the first time. After this, add rice starch, turmeric or arrowroot and boil it on low flame. This makes the pot strong and does not crack.
How to clean?
1. Do not use soap: Soap can get absorbed in the clay, which can affect the food when you cook next time. Therefore, wash the pot with hot water and use lemon, salt or baking soda for cleaning.
2. Let the pot dry completely: After washing, dry the clay pots thoroughly in the sun or open air. There is a risk of mold if moisture remains.
3. Decide the use of each pot separately: For example, use the pan only for roti and the handi for dal or vegetable. This increases the life of the pots and their performance also remains better.
Better alternative to plastic (Precautions Before Using Clay Pots)
Clay jugs and bottles are a natural and safe way to keep water cool. They can be used in place of refrigerator bottles.