When it comes to cooking, we all do it differently. That’s what makes a dish a dish. Whether it is using different spices, different recipes, and even different cookware.
I recently came across a company called Ancient Cookware. This company offers a wide variety of clay cookware that is no only beautiful but unique. I had the pleasure of e-mailing Oscar who is a representative of the company. He was very helpful when I asked to review an item and sent me three of them. I was excited, but little did I know, their products were not only going to be nice, but change the way I cooked.
Cooking with clay cookware is a little different then we are all accustomed to. It takes warming up the item gradually so the clay won’t carck. Some items also need to be cured. I know as you read this, you may think it is a lot of work, but it is work well worth it. Clay cookware will last many years if taken care of propertly. You must use a soft cloth and mild soap to wash these. Do not put them in the dishwasher as it will ruin them. They can be used in a microwave, stove-top, and inside of the oven as well. Serving is easy because you can take them from the oven to the table, just use a trivet. They help retain the heat to keep items warm and when using these to cook, it cooks items evenly. Here is what I was sent and what I thought.
Black Clay, La Chamba Oval Serving Dish with Handles
I love this serving tray. It is just the right size and perfect for entertaining. Of course you need to introduct this to heat slowly and build the temperature so the item doesn’t carack so keep that in mind. The handles are nicely sized. It is recommended that you cure this item. I followed the manufacturers directions which come included. This cooks items evenly and retains heat well. This is microwave, stove, and oven safe. This is not dishwasher safe. When I cleaned this, I used mild soap and water with a soft cloth. Still seems to be holding out beautifully.
Black Clay, La Chamba Rounded Soup Pot – Large – 6 Quarts
This beautiful soup pot cooks stews and soups so deliciously. This is a solid pot and it must be introduced to heat a certain way with like most clay items. You will want to put it on heat and evenually built the temperature warmer so the clay won’t crack. I followed the directions and used the inside of a plantain and rubbed it on the pot and then filled with water and let it come to a boil. It was very easy to do. I have used this many times and each outcome with the food is the same. Delicious. Food cooks evenly and this pot is also wonderful to use while serving. I have received so many compliments on this item.
Mexican Flat Cazuela – Medium – Lead Free
This gorgeous flat cazuela is perrfect for cooking in. Offering even temperatures while in use, your dishes will turn out fantastic as you anticpate. This does have a glaze which makes cleaning it a breeze with mild soap and water. It is recommended to not use anything abrasive with this. I just use a soft cloth with mild soap and water and it seems to be good. I love the painted design on this. Not only is it unique, but it offers some beautiful colors to compliment the clay color. There are four holes on the cover perfect to let steam out. The handles on this are perfectly sized making grabbing this from the oven easy. I have received many compliments when entertaining and using this.
For more information on these items, please feel free to visit the hyperlinks. It will direct you to the Amazon listings to purchase the items. This company also has a website located at www.AncientCookware.com. I am impressed with these items and have been telling everyone I know about them.
These products were offered for the purpose of inspection and for an unbiased review.
