Ceramic Cookware
Terracotta
Materials – An unglazed earthenware of clay, kaolin and added minerals. A reddish colour, it is usually left unglazed and is therefore very porous.
Key benefits - As terracotta is very absorbent it is an ideal material for retaining moisture.
Use & Care:
- • Terracotta should be soaked in water for 10 minutes prior to cooking.
- • Terracotta should be placed in a cold oven so that it will heat slowly.
- • Wash in warm water with a little salt or vinegar, do not use detergents that can be absorbed into the terracotta.
- • Terracotta is relatively fragile and should be handled more carefully than other ceramics.
Typical shapes - Includes Romertopfs or chicken bricks, diables or potato bakers and tandoori clay pots.
Earthenware
Materials – Effectively a glazed terracotta made up of clay and kaolin with added minerals. Earthenware can be relatively fragile as it has not been fired to as high a temperature as stoneware or porcelain and is not vitrified. The exterior of the base of an earthenware item is not usually glazed, this is due to the production process.
Key benefits – This low priced ceramic is excellent for cooking in the oven and serving at the table. It retains the heat well. The glaze seals the surface and prevents moisture and flavours from being absorbed. The glaze also helps to protect the pot against chipping.
Use & Care -
- • All earthenware is oven proof.
- • Check the manufacturer’s instructions to determine whether the dish is hob, microwave, freezer or dishwasher safe.
- • Avoid sudden changes of temperature.
- • Earthenware can chip or break easily and must be handled with care.
- • Hand wash pots in warm, soapy water - don’t leave items with an unglazed base to soak in water (it is better to fill the dish and leave it on the side).
- • Always make sure the pot is completely dry before putting it away.
- • Always check the manufacturer’s instructions.
Typical shapes - Includes casseroles, mixing bowls, jugs and gratin dishes.
Materials - A combination of clay, flint and china clay fired to a higher temperature than earthenware. Glazed for added durability and ease of use.
Key benefits - This is semi-vitrified and virtually impervious. It is tougher than earthenware but not as hard wearing as porcelain. Stoneware has a good resistance to chipping or crazing. It is ideal for casseroles, roasts and baking.
Use & Care -
- • Wash in warm, soapy water.
- • Dishwasher safe.
- • Avoid sudden changes of temperature.
- • Always check the manufacturer’s instructions.
Typical shapes – Includes casseroles, baking dishes & bowls.
Porcelain
Materials – A glazed clay that is fired at a higher temperature than other ceramics. Porcelain is completely vitrified.
Key benefits - A durable material that can withstand high temperatures. Retains heat and cooks evenly, therefore ideal for soufflés. Porcelain is virtually impervious and resistant to acid so will not absorb moisture or odours. Porcelain is hard wearing and easy to clean.
Use & Care -
- • Oven, microwave, fridge and freezer safe.
- • Avoid sudden changes of temperature.
- • Wash in hot soapy water or the dishwasher.
- • Stubborn, burnt on marks can be removed by soaking in warm, soapy water.
- • Always check the manufacturer’s instructions.
Typical shapes - Includes soufflé dishes, ramekins, gratin dishes and tableware.
Materials - A specially developed patented ceramic that results in a truly versatile material.
Key benefits - Flame can withstand extreme temperatures, it can be used on the hob, in the oven and under the grill. Use it to store food in the fridge or freezer. It is also dishwasher safe. A lightweight flame proof ceramic that is easy to clean.
Use & Care:
- • Hob, grill, oven, microwave, fridge and freezer safe.
- • Wash in hot soapy water or the dishwasher.
- • Stubborn, burnt on marks can be removed by soaking in warm, soapy water.
- • Always check the manufacturer’s instructions.
Typical shapes – Flame is available in casseroles and baking dishes of various sizes and a popular tagine.
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