Cooking is more than a necessity; it is an art that has evolved over the centuries, incorporating various materials, methods and techniques to create all sorts of culinary creations. One such ancient method that continues to captivate cooks worldwide is the use of claypots. These humble vessels, crafted from natural clay, possess a unique ability to transform ordinary ingredients into extraordinary dishes. In this article, we will delve into the world of claypot cooking, exploring its history, and properties, and providing valuable tips and techniques for beginners to embark on their claypot culinary journey.

History of Claypot Cooking

The history of claypot cooking can be traced back to various ancient civilizations. Earthenware vessels were used by early humans for both cooking and storage. Over time, these rudimentary pots evolved into more sophisticated forms, reflecting advancements in craftsmanship. Ancient cultures from all over the world utilised claypots to create nourishing meals with deep-rooted cultural significance. Whether it’s the Moroccan tagine, the Chinese sandpot, or the German Römertopf, these vessels have shaped cuisines around the world.

A Timeless Culinary Tradition

This traditional method of cooking is cherished for the unique taste and aroma it imparts to dishes, as a result of the type of clay used, each with distinct properties that contribute to the cooking process. 

Claypots offer a multitude of benefits that have kept them relevant through generations:

  1. Enhanced Flavour: The porous nature of clay allows for slow and even heat distribution, resulting in well-cooked food with enhanced flavours.
  2. Healthier Cooking: Cooking in claypots often requires less oil, as the pot’s porous surface retains moisture and prevents food from sticking, making it a healthier cooking option.
  3. Aesthetic Appeal: The rustic charm of claypots adds a touch of authenticity to the dining experience, elevating the visual aspect of the meal.
  4. Nutrient Retention: The slow-cooking process in claypots helps retain the nutritional value of the ingredients, ensuring that essential vitamins and minerals are preserved.
  5. Eco-Friendly: Claypots are often made from natural materials and are biodegradable, making them an environmentally-friendly choice.

Types of Claypots

There are several types of claypots, each with its own characteristics and cooking properties. Let’s look at a few types:

  1. Earthenware: These pots are made from natural clay and are often unglazed. They offer excellent heat distribution and moisture retention but may require seasoning before use to prevent cracking and enhance their durability. 
  2. Stoneware: Stoneware claypots are fired at higher temperatures, resulting in a more durable and sturdy pot that’s resistant to cracks.
  3. Metal: Metal claypots exist as a modern variation of the traditional concept, This can be a good option for beginners, as metal claypots less fragile and are much easier to handle when compared to traditional ones.
  4. Porcelain: These pots are coated with a layer of glaze, making them ideal for cooking acidic foods. They are non-porous and easy to clean.
  5. Fire Clay: Fire clay pots are designed for high-heat cooking, making them suitable for baking and roasting.

Tips for Beginners

Before embarking on your claypot cooking adventure, consider these essential tips:

  1. Selecting the Right Claypot: Choose a claypot that is right for what you want to cook. Try to select one made from high-quality clay that is devoid of cracks or imperfections. A well-crafted pot will ensure consistent cooking results and durability.
  2. Seasoning Your Claypot: To enhance the pot’s performance, season it before its maiden use, particularly if it is unglazed. Soak the pot in water for a few hours or overnight, then air dry it and coat the claypot with any type of cooking oil. Once again,  leave it to air dry for a few hours so that all the oil can be absorbed and then your pot can be considered seasoned.
  3. Pre-Soaking the Claypot: Always pre-soak your claypot before using it. This step prevents sudden temperature changes that could lead to cracks or breakage.
  4. Low Heat Cooking: Use low to medium heat settings to prevent the claypot from cracking. Claypots are excellent retainers of heat.
  5. Avoid Overcrowding: Don’t overload the pot with ingredients. This ensures that heat is evenly distributed and allows flavours to meld effectively. Select a claypot that suits the amount of food that you are preparing.
  6. Use Wooden Utensils: Opt for wooden or silicone utensils to prevent scratching the pot’s surface. Metal utensils can damage the clay’s integrity.
  7. Natural Cooling: Allow the claypot to cool down naturally before washing it. Placing a hot pot under cold water can cause cracks.
  8. Cleaning: Don’t use soap or chemicals on unglazed or partially glazed clay pots, as they are extremely porous and will be affected by these detergents. Instead, if you are concerned about the growth of harmful bacteria, you can heat the pots in a dry oven for about 30 minutes to kill any bacteria. 

Embracing Tradition and Flavor

The journey of claypot cooking is not only educational but also incredibly rewarding. By heeding the tips and techniques presented in this article, beginners can confidently embark on a flavourful adventure that spans centuries and cultures. 

If you are looking for an authentic and traditional claypot dish to try out before you get started on your own claypot journey, you can visit Lau Wang’s Claypot Delights. We are a claypot restaurant in Singapore that features some of the best claypot treats. As a family restaurant, we offer Chinese cuisine in Singapore, cooked in the traditional claypot to ensure that all your favourite dishes retain the same flavours that our ancestors would have enjoyed. 

Come and try out all your favourite dishes from our claypot restaurant in Singapore now!