Any good cook knows that the tools you use are just as important as your ingredients or recipes. That’s why many choose to use stoneware pieces for baking, roasting, and more. And with proper stoneware care and use, you can continue using your favorite pieces for years to come or even pass them down to other generations. Keep reading below to learn more about what stoneware is, as well as tips for using and cleaning it.
Stoneware is a non-porous type of cookware that can transfer heat evenly for perfect cooking every time. It undergoes a creation process that’s similar to regular pottery pieces, but the end result is much stronger. Stoneware has several differing qualities from earthenware, but the key one is that stoneware is fired at a much higher temperature.
Made of non-refractory fire clay, it’s fired between 2,200 to 2,800 degrees Fahrenheit. Because of this higher firing temperature, it achieves a stone-like quality that feels heavy and more solid than an earthenware piece.
Technically, stoneware also doesn’t need to be glazed like earthenware because its firing process also makes the clay waterproof in the end. So if you enjoy the look of clay pieces but don’t like the fragility of them, this may be a better and more practical alternative.
It’s also a thicker option than other popular materials like china or porcelain, which can chip easily. Stoneware is thicker than the two and you can tell this simply by testing them all in the light. China and porcelain are translucent and will allow light through, but stoneware is denser. Hold it up against the light and you won’t see any shining through.
Despite its heat tolerance, stoneware is chancy on the stove top. For one thing, stoneware can damage flat glass or ceramic stove tops, whether conventional or induction. More importantly, the intense, direct heat of a stove top burner subjects the cookware to more stress than the gentler, indirect heat of the oven.
How to Clean Stoneware & Other FAQs
Like any piece of cookware you get, it’s important to establish the kind of cleaning care your piece needs right away. Make sure to first read through any advice or instructions that come with your stoneware item so you know how to clean your stoneware properly.
The most crucial key to stoneware care and use is to always make sure it’s brought to room temperature before cleaning. Rapid temperature changes can cause thermal shock, which means your stoneware has the potential to crack and chip.
As far as soap, avoid using any citrus juices or citrus-based cleaners (read your detergent label carefully) as those will ruin any exterior gloss. Additionally, don’t use metal pads or utensils that will scratch. Instead, clean it off with nylon pads.
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Is Stoneware Dishwasher Safe?
Figuring out how to clean stoneware is a lot easier if you get a piece that’s dishwasher safe. However, not all pieces are. Typically if your piece is not glazed, it should be hand-washed only. But some types of glazed stoneware are dishwasher safe. You’ll just need to consult any instructions that come with it.
Similar to what’s above, just make sure that your stoneware is cooled to room temperature before throwing it in the dishwasher. Also, keep in mind that if you’re interested in seasoning your piece, the dishwasher will remove that seasoned layer. It’s best to opt for handwashing over the dishwasher in that instance.
How to Cure Clay Pots for Cooking
FAQ
Can stoneware be used for cooking?
Can you put stoneware on direct heat?
Can you cook with ceramic on stove top?
Can you use stoneware on a stovetop?
Stoneware is not recommended for direct stovetop use, as it can crack or break under high heat. Instead, use stoneware for baking or as a serving dish. Can you use ceramic cookware on a glass-top stove?
Is stoneware Chancy on a stove top?
Despite its heat tolerance, stoneware is chancy on the stove top. For one thing, stoneware can damage flat glass or ceramic stove tops, whether conventional or induction. More importantly, the intense, direct heat of a stove top burner subjects the cookware to more stress than the gentler, indirect heat of the oven.
Are glass top stoves compatible with stoneware?
Glass top stoves are incompatible with cast iron, stoneware, or ceramic or glass cookware. When dragged across a smooth surface laden with food, their rough surface can easily produce scratches on your favourite glass top stoves.
Can you put stoneware in a slow cooker?
The insert of your slow cooker is usually made of stoneware and will work just as well in the oven. Despite its heat tolerance, stoneware is chancy on the stove top. For one thing, stoneware can damage flat glass or ceramic stove tops, whether conventional or induction.