The Art of Cooking in Clay Pots: A Guide to Using Romertopf Cookware

Are you tired of using the same old pots and pans in your kitchen? If you want to try something new and exciting, consider cooking in clay pots. Clay pot cooking is an ancient technique that has been used for centuries to create delicious and flavorful dishes and has become one of our favorite grilling tools. With the right terracotta pot, you can achieve amazing results in your own kitchen.

One of the best for cooking are the Romertopf clay roasters. These pots are handmade in Germany and are known for their high quality and durability. They are made from natural clay and are glazed on the inside to make them non-stick and easy to clean. Romertopf cookware is also versatile and can be used in the oven, on the stovetop, or even on the grill. 

There are many benefits to cooking in clay cooker:

1. Clay pots retain moisture. Perfect for creating moist and tender dishes because they are able to retain moisture due to their porous nature. This makes them ideal for slow-cooking methods such as braising and roasting.
2. Clay pots add flavor. Clay roasters are able to absorb and enhance the flavors of your ingredients, resulting in more flavorful dishes. They are also able to add a subtle, earthy flavor to your food due to the properties of the clay itself. 
3. Clay pots are healthy. Romertopf pots do not contain any chemicals or additives that can leach into your food. They are also able to cook food using lower temperatures, which helps to preserve the nutrients in your ingredients.
4. Clay pots are versatile and easier to clean. They are not just for slow-cooking methods. They can also be used for baking and grilling, making them a versatile addition to any kitchen.

So, how do you cook with a Romertopf clay pot? Here are some tips to get you started:

1. Soak the pot before use. Before you use your Romertopf clay roaster for the first time, it's important to soak it in water for at least 15 minutes. This will help to prevent the pot from cracking when it is exposed to heat. You should also soak the pot before each use to ensure that it is fully hydrated.
2. Preheat the pot before adding food. To get the best results when cooking, it's important to preheat the pot before adding your food. This will help to evenly distribute the heat and ensure that your food is cooked to perfection. To preheat the pot, place it in a cold oven and turn the oven to the desired temperature. Allow the pot to heat up for about 15 minutes before adding your food.
3. Use low to medium heat. Clay pots are not designed for high heat cooking. They are best suited for low to medium heat cooking methods such as roasting, braising, and slow cooking. If you are using your Romertopf clay pot on the stovetop, use a low to medium flame. If you are using it in the oven, set the temperature to no higher than 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
4. Don't lift the lid too often. When cooking with a Romertopf clay baker, it's important to resist the temptation to lift the lid too often. Clay pots rely on trapped steam to cook and moisten the food, so opening the lid too frequently will release the steam and disrupt the cooking process. If you need to check on your food, use a quick peek rather than a full lift.
5. Allow the pot to cool before handling. When you are finished cooking with your clay pot/clay roaster, it's important to allow it to cool completely before handling it. Clay pots are fragile when they are hot, so it's best to let them cool down to room temperature before attempting to clean or store them.

Here are some ideas of recipes to get you started cooking with clay cookware, but remember, the possibilities are endless! Get creative!

• Many recommend the Romertopf Rectangular Pan with Grill Nibs to cook fish and have had amazing (non-stick) results! 
• The Romertopf BBQ series Dutch Oven is great for chili and any other low and slow dish. It is great for cooking and for serving food, you will be able to enjoy your meal and keep your food warm! The Romertopf retains all the liquid and it's a game changer for pulled pork, creating consistent results every time.
• The Romertopf BBQ series Grill Bowl can be amazing for bowl dishes on the grill!

Cooking with a Romertopf clay pot is a unique and rewarding experience. These pots are perfect for creating delicious, slow-cooked meals that are full of flavor and nutrients. So why wait?