Cooking with stoneware is a great way to cook your evenly and safely. Yep, you heard that right – stoneware isn’t just for fancy plates or decorations; it’s a game-changer in the kitchen too.
So, what’s the deal with cooking on stoneware anyway? Well, imagine this: a material that distributes heat evenly, retains it like a champ, and makes your dishes taste even better. With the exception of cast iron, stoneware is my favorite way to cook our food.
Stoneware is made from clay fired at super high temperatures, which makes it durable and perfect for the oven. Whether you’re baking a gooey batch of chocolate chip cookies or roasting up some veggies for dinner, stoneware has got your back.
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Why You’ll Love Cooking With Stoneware
One of the coolest things about cooking with stoneware is its versatility. Seriously, you can use it for almost anything. From casseroles to bread to pizza. It’s like having a superhero sidekick in the kitchen!
Stoneware is non-stick, which means you can say goodbye to those pesky burnt-on messes. Plus, it’s a breeze to clean – just some warm water and you’re good to go.
Stoneware also has this magical ability to enhance the taste of your food. It locks in moisture, giving you juicy meats and perfectly crisp edges.
Stoneware is non-toxic. If you’re looking for a way to decrease the use of toxic material in your kitchen, stoneware is a great choice. Be aware that some stoneware clay is made with lead. Do your research prior to purchasing stoneware. This is especially true for glazed stoneware.
It evenly distributes heat. Our family loves to go camping. Camping ovens are notorious for cooking unevenly and having hot spots. I fixed that problem by adding a pizza stone to the bottom of the camper oven. The stone distributed the heat and got rid of the hot spots. I’ve been hooked on stoneware since!
Types of Stoneware
When it comes to stoneware, there’s a variety of types out there, each with its own unique characteristics and purposes. Let’s break down some of the main types you might encounter in your culinary adventures:
- Traditional Stoneware: This is your classic stoneware, often handmade and fired at high temperatures to create a durable and versatile cooking vessel. Traditional stoneware can range in color, texture, and design, but it’s generally known for its ability to distribute heat evenly and retain it for a long time. It’s perfect for baking bread, casseroles, and roasting veggies.
- Glazed Stoneware: Glazed stoneware has a smooth, non-porous surface thanks to a layer of glaze applied before firing. This makes it even more non-stick and easy to clean compared to unglazed stoneware. Glazed stoneware comes in a variety of colors and patterns, adding a touch of style to your kitchen. While you don’t want to wash your traditional stoneware with soap, it’s okay to wash glazed stone ware. It doesn’t have the seasoning that traditional stoneware develops.
- Pizza Stones: Pizza stones are a specific type of stoneware designed for one delicious purpose: making crispy, perfectly cooked pizzas at home. These stones are typically unglazed and porous, absorbing moisture from the dough to create a crispy crust. Pizza stones can also be used for baking bread and other baked goods, making them a versatile addition to any kitchen.
- Grill Stones: Grill stones are stoneware designed for use on grills, imparting that signature grilled flavor to your favorite meats, veggies, and seafood. These stones can withstand high temperatures and distribute heat evenly, ensuring that your food cooks evenly and develops a delicious char. My husband loves his ceramic grill/smoker and frequently uses a grill stone to cook with. It’s a game changer for grilling.
- Decorative Stoneware: Last but not least, decorative stoneware encompasses a wide range of pottery and ceramics designed primarily for serving and presentation. While not always suitable for cooking, decorative stoneware adds a touch of elegance and charm to your table setting. From hand-painted plates to artisanal serving bowls, decorative stoneware comes in endless shapes, sizes, and designs to suit any aesthetic. Some of my favorite mixing bowls are vintage stoneware.
No matter which type of stoneware you choose, incorporating it into your cooking routine can elevate your culinary creations and bring a touch of rustic charm to your kitchen.
Tips for cooking with stoneware
Cooking with stoneware can be incredibly rewarding, but there are some tips and tricks to ensure you get the best results every time. Here’s a handy list to help you make the most of your stoneware cooking adventures:
- Preheat your Stoneware: Always preheat your stoneware in the oven before adding your food. This helps to ensure even cooking and prevents food from sticking to the surface.
- Avoid Temperature Shock: Stoneware is susceptible to thermal shock, so avoid drastic temperature changes. Don’t place cold stoneware directly into a hot oven or vice versa to prevent cracking.
- Season Unglazed Stoneware: If you’re using unglazed stoneware, consider seasoning it before the first use. Simply rub the surface with a light coating of vegetable oil and bake it in the oven at a low temperature for about an hour. This helps to create a natural non-stick surface and enhances the flavor of your dishes.
- Avoid Abrasive Cleaners: Stick to gentle dish soap and warm water when cleaning your stoneware. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads, as they can damage the surface and remove the seasoning on unglazed stoneware. I treat my stoneware like my cast iron by thoroughly rinsing it without using dish soap. A plastic scrapper is great for cleaning stoneware.
- Allow Stoneware to Cool: Let your stoneware cool down gradually after cooking before cleaning or exposing it to extreme temperature changes. Placing hot stoneware directly on a cold surface can cause it to crack.
- Experiment with Cooking Times: Stoneware retains heat well, so you may find that your dishes cook faster than expected. Keep an eye on your food and adjust cooking times as needed to prevent overcooking.
- Use Stoneware in Different Cooking Methods: Stoneware is incredibly versatile and can be used for baking, roasting, broiling, and even grilling. Experiment with different cooking methods to discover new and delicious dishes.
- Handle with Care: Treat your stoneware with care to prevent chipping or cracking. Avoid dropping or banging it against hard surfaces, and store it safely when not in use.
Frequently asked questions
- What is stoneware made of?
- Stoneware is typically made from clay that is fired at high temperatures, which gives it its durable and heat-retaining properties.
- Is stoneware safe for cooking?
- Yes, stoneware is generally safe for cooking. It’s lead-free and non-toxic when used as intended. However, always check manufacturer instructions for specific care and usage guidelines. Like I mentioned above, be sure to check with the manufacture to ensure you stoneware isn’t made with lead.
- How do I clean stoneware?
- Stoneware should be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft sponge or cloth. If your stoneware is unglazed, you can maintain the seasoning by rinsing it good with warm water. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or metal utensils that could scratch the surface. Allow stoneware to cool before washing. Using a plastic scraper tool will clean the stoneware without damaging it. Washing unglazed stoneware with soap can lead to a soapy flavor in your food.
- Can I use stoneware in the microwave?
- Yes, stoneware is microwave-safe. However, be cautious when transferring stoneware from extreme temperatures, such as a hot oven to a cold countertop, as it may crack due to thermal shock.
- Can I use stoneware on the stovetop?
- It depends on the type of stoneware. Most stoneware should not be used on a stovetop. Check with your specific manufacturer
- Do I need to season my stoneware?
- Seasoning is typically needed for unglazed stoneware to create a non-stick surface. This involves rubbing the stoneware with oil and baking it at a low temperature before first use. The more you use your stoneware, the more seasoned it will become. It will take on a dark color. The worse the stoneware looks, the more seasoned it is.
- Can I use stoneware in the dishwasher?
- While some stoneware is labeled as dishwasher-safe, it’s generally recommended to hand wash stoneware to preserve its longevity and prevent damage from harsh detergents and high heat.
- How do I prevent food from sticking to stoneware?
- Preheating your stoneware, using cooking spray or oil, and seasoning unglazed stoneware can help prevent food from sticking. Avoid using metal utensils that could scratch the surface. Check out my favorite wooden cooking utensils.
- Is stoneware oven-safe?
- Yes, stoneware is oven-safe and can withstand high temperatures. It’s perfect for baking, roasting, and broiling a variety of dishes.
Where To Buy Stoneware
-Amazon is a great place to buy Pampered Chef Stoneware. I have several of their stoneware pieces, and they’ll last for the long haul if properly cared for.
Le Creuset Stoneware cookware is also great. They are glazed, making them easier to clean than unglazed stoneware.
So, next time you’re whipping up a meal, why not give stoneware a try? Your taste buds – and your kitchen – will thank you for it.
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