The Best Clay Baker

Clay bakers are not only stylish, but they also produce dishes that are full of flavor. They can be used to prepare just about any recipe, including stew, roasted chicken and vegetables, homemade biscuits and banana nut bread. If you’re in the market for clay bakeware, keep the following features in mind as you shop.

Determine exactly what you want to cook in the clay baker. There are casserole-type dishes that can bake just about anything, as well as bakeware items that are designed for a specific purpose. For example, the Norpro 1157 Garlic Clay Baker is made for roasting garlic. It comes with a lid that has a tiny air vent and a cute garlic-shaped handle for easy gripping.

When opting for a clay baker that can handle bread, you want to make sure that you won’t need to add any unnecessary grease. For example, the USA Pan Stoneware Loaf Clay Baker features a nonstick silicone coating that is PFOA and PTFE-free. The bread will slide right out of the clay baker without the bottom or sides sticking to the pan.

Review the size of the clay baker to ensure it can hold enough to serve your family. The Ceramica Edgar Pinto Terracotta Roasting Tray Clay Baker comes in six different sizes, so whether you are a newly married couple or a family of six, you’re sure to find a baker that meets your needs. As an added bonus, this particular clay baker is made from an attractive red clay that is then hand-painted.

Take a look at the clay baker’s craftsmanship and any extra features that it may have that make it more functional than another model. For example, the Römertopf Rustico Series Glazed Clay Baker is handcrafted in Germany, includes a matching lid, comes with handles for easy carrying and is safe for use in both ovens and microwaves.

• Review the cleaning instructions on the clay baker’s product packaging. Half are listed as dishwasher safe, as they are able to withstand high heat. The other half must be hand-washed. If they have a glaze, you can wash them with dish soap, water and a non-abrasive sponge. Natural clay pots, on the other hand, will absorb the soap, so you’ll need to wash them with hot water and use a brush to clean away any food particles. Baking soda can be added if you notice the clay baker has a bit of an odor.
• Many clay bakers are designed to be soaked in water before use. The chef then adds the ingredients to the baker and places the dish in the oven while the oven is still cold. The temperature is then set and as the baker heats up, steam is produced. This unique steaming process results in some of the most delicious flavors you’ve ever tasted.
• After removing a clay baker from the oven, you’ll need to set it on a heat resistant mat or a wood, metal or silicone trivet. If you try to place it directly on a cool surface, the clay may crack.
• Do not use your clay baker on a stovetop. Clay bakers are also not safe to place in a freezer.
• Clay bakers come in a wide range of sizes and intended uses. As a result, the price for a clay baker varies greatly. You’ll pay the least amount for the Norpro 1157 Garlic Clay Baker, as it is only big enough to roast garlic. Both, the USA Pan Stoneware Loaf Clay Baker and the Ceramica Edgar Pinto Terracotta Roasting Tray Clay Baker are moderately priced. You’ll pay the most for the Römertopf Rustico Series Glazed Clay Baker, which has a large capacity and comes with a matching lid.