HOW TO SEASON A NEW UNGLAZED CLAY COOKING POT BEFORE FIRST USE | 4K UHD

Correctly season a new, unglazed clay cooking pot to last long and become stronger. Here are a few methods. You don't need to do all of them. Just follow the directions. After washing the pot and soaking the pot, boil some water or cook some coconut in it.
If you wish, you can go a step further and oil it to bake in the oven to strengthen the pot. The most important step is to soak the pot for several hours and then cook a little something in it. All the other steps are additional options and are not required to start using the pot.

[@mariadsouza7734]

Thank you for being so kind and patiently explaining this process.

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

You are more than welcome, Maria! Stay connected. xx

[@mrjones2721]

Thank you for this tutorial! There's so much competing advice out there that I couldn't figure out how to season my new clay pot, but I tried your method and it passed the water test perfectly.

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Mr.Jones, that's awesome to know! Yes, too much information can be overwhelming. Enjoy your new clay pot! 😊

[@hizo64HH]

I loved this, I am starting to cook traditional Mexican food using their style of clay pottery. This video was great! Thank you!

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Glad it was helpful 😁 Enjoy your culinary journey! ❤

[@RajinderYadav]

It seems as if people have their own technique for seasoning, but I got down the basic principles, thank you for sharing. I love your process of also oiling it on the outside as well as inside and using the oven.

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

You are right. Everyone has their own way of seasoning it. Glad you found this video helpful 🙂

[@mohamedjaleel1229]

A fine tutorial. I didn't know how to season a clay pot and make it ready for cooking. Now I know it. Thank you.

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Thanks for your kind comment! Glad it helped 😀

[@kevinpeters6709]

Thank you! So many “sources” on the Internet say unglazed clay can’t be food safe and I recently got into pottery and I love the primitive unglazed look so now I know how to treat my next batch (if it ever stops raining long enough to dig a new bigger firing pit lol)

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Hi Kevin, I am with you on this! It's amazing that you make your own pots and fire them yourself. How fun!!! :) Stay connected.

[@mrjones2721]

How can unglazed clay be non-food-safe? If you use the wrong clays, maybe, but unglazed clay pots are older than history.

[@imnotkidding6768]

@@mrjones2721 except I thought it was the opposite. Unglazed is healthier, no?

[@yahya8471]

@@mrjones2721 u can easily find people online that says that clay pot is unsafe. They say that the the fact that it is porous makes it easy for mold to developp inside the pot as it can retain moisture

[@genkiferal7178]

@@imnotkidding6768 sometimes the clay is naturally high in arsenic (supposedly this is true in Pakistan), but either the soil or the glaze can contain lead. Mexico seems to be more likely to make and sell pots with lead in it. Maybe it is naturally occurring in their soil? idk.

[@deedall]

Thank you so much for this great info! I just got a new Tagine yesterday and it’s been soaking all night. I’ll let it soak 24 to be safe after watching your video. Happy cooking to all of us cookers 🎉 You have a new subscriber today too🙂

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Yay! So happy you got a Tagine and have subscribed 💕 Have fun cooking!

[@francinepoirier3645]

The best video on how to season a clay cooking pot. Thank you so much.

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

So nice of you. Thank you!

[@salmawani1456]

Ur way of explaing is very organized n simple,

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Thank you Salma for your kind words 🙏

[@salmawani1456]

🤗🤗🤗

[@lynisaaks9837]

Thanks for your very succinct instructions on seasoning a clay pot. Also enjoyed your beautifully modulated voice. Blessings 💖💖

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Lynn, thank you for watching and your sweet comment. You are too kind ☺❤

[@kkaajjlkakjskj6772]

6:50 this lady is so AMAZING! So is her grandmother! = the coccnut oil seasons the pot and still perforates the left over pores (after oil + oven) in the clay pot. Also choosing the cocconut oil that has low burning temp. for creating the protective layer seems super legit. The coconut oil will also leave its flavour on the clay pot, creating an unique super-neutral seasoning that might give flavor in further cooking processes of this particular clay pot.

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Thank you kk :)

[@skjeet4001]

Thank you for the detailed instructions, I've been looking for such for a long time! Especially with unglazed pots. Your video and tips were very valuable 🙏🏼🙏🏼🤗

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Thank you so much! I am so happy to know the video was helpful. Enjoy clay pot cooking, and be sure to browse some claypot recipes on this channel 😊.

[@havingalook2]

That was VERY informative and far easier to accomplish than I had imagined. Many thanks indeed for such a fine and informative/educational video. Cheers

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

You're very welcome! Thanks for having a look :D

[@CecilDSouza]

The demo was so clear and the commentary was perfect. The music was incredible. Kudos to the sound engineer and camera man. Please send him to National Geo.. some of their sound engineers are deaf. My mom used to make rasam or some dish that needed some seasoning in the clay pot to season it well. Specifically pots for making appas. In those days, we use fire wood. Even gas is fine but I have never tried clay chatis on electric. But you are very right about the thick bottoms and the thickness. Thank you for such a clear demonstration.

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Oh my Cecil! Thank you!! I don't have a team to do my videos so I get to keep all your high compliments :) Thank you for sharing your lovely memories of your mom's clay pot seasoning. Once the pot has been soaked it can be used to make anything for the final step in seasoning. We too used firewood too and food is extra delicious when made that way. Stay in touch. xx

[@marthatierney449]

@AasaiRasaiRecipes Can you identify the music please? It would be great for yoga practice

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Hello @marthatierney449, this music is from the KZbin Creator Studio. I am unable to locate the information and it may have been taken down. Sorry that I cannot be of much help.

[@jsmythib]

There are alot of videos on sealing stoneware/earthenware. Yours gives me the actual, practical, time tested basics. Thanks a much :)

[@jsmythib]

Basically fill in the pores with something non toxic, water resistant, that wont spoil. Eventually the outer pores will collect/fill with carbon. Making the pot stronger and more resistant. Feels like harmony :)

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Wow, thank you!

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Exactly 💯

[@dilnawazkhan7766]

Many thanks very informative as I have spoiled my two pots and I brought again a new pot Andy his time I was looking for the right information which I believe I got it now .I will follow the instructions and let you know

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Hi Dil, glad it was helpful! Yes do let me know how it went :)

[@lovecricket1000]

Hi, Thank you for your time to put this informative video together. Issue, i had soaked it for the first time for 24 hours and did not pass the water test. Then left it to soak again for another 15hrs and it hasnt passed the water test again. Any idea on how to seal these holes? Looks like it hasnt sealed after the 2 rounds of soaking in water. Any tips are appreciated Thanks.

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Hi back! Look for hairline cracks around the pot. If it looks good, then start using it as instructed. But first, cook a little rice (or coconut as shown in the video) and discard it before cooking meals in the pot. It will continue to season the more it is used. Tip: To prevent thermal shock after soaking it for so long, completely air dry the pot before placing on hot stove.

[@pinkbike42]

Thank you so much! I just got mine for clay pot rice. I knew it was special and I am so glad to find your simple video.

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

You are so welcome Indi B! Clay pots are wonderful for rice. Stay in touch :)

[@michellesudhakar9961]

Hi! Where did you buy your pots?

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Hi Michelle, this is what I got from Sri Lanka and we also import them. Our next shipment is due in 3 weeks. Check back later this month when we upload on www.paradisetradingllc.com :)

[@swapnapillai6846]

I have searched high and low but I don't seem to be getting a good clay pot. Thanks for this great video !!

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Glad it was helpful, Swapna, Try the online or local Sri Lankan grocery stores.

[@jehanghouse6641]

Very helpful video. Thanks for sharing your expertise and experiences. I noticed that you have an electric cook top. How do clay pots fare on an electric range versus a gas range or a traditional “Dhara lipa”. Is it safe to place it directly on the range or do you use a heating ring, etc?

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Hi 👋, I'm glad it was helpful, and thanks for your questions! I have been using these clay pots all the time on an electric coil stove top without issues overall. The only downside is that the bottom is rounded out and it has less contact with the coil. This causes the pot to wobble and take a little longer to heat. Well, these pots are designed for use on a Dara Lipa so it is to he expected. Once the pot is heated, it holds the heat as it would if it were a heavy pan. I place the pot directly on the coil. 🙂

[@mariannewortel9631]

Thank you for showing us this. I still have a question: Do we season a water cooler pot like this also? And if so, also the sides or only the bottom?

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Hello 👋 and thank you for watching. When seasoning an (unglazed) water pot, you only need to soak it in water for 12 to 24 hours. Then wipe the outside and let it completely air dry. Fill with water and leave for several hours. Then discard this water and refill. You can now drink/use the pot starting with the refill water. Note that clay water pots should be cleaned very frequently to prevent it slime from forming. Hope this helps.

[@hiramyawicks1287]

What a piece of useful information! Never knew that it had to be soaked for a while and the procedure.. I shall also let my helper know how to season it. She too did it all wrong all this time. She used to keep it on the hearth to blacken it.

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Thanks Hiramya! I bet there are many ways to season without soaking too. It's just too bad we don't get to see how these things were traditionally done in rural kitchens. My late grandmother spent her time in the kitchen from morning till night. And when she had dementia, she could remember recipes and cooking related information but not anything else :)

[@susanthafernando6383]

Great..i have seen my grand mother doing it. Never knew why. But now on after watching your video, I know why she done it. Very serious guidelines really. It's a perfect one, thanks👌👍😊

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Susantha, that's wonderful! Glad to be of help and thank you for your kind words. Grandmothers knew best and we will surely miss their amazing hands-on knowledge.

[@formationvee472]

1:50 How can no one comment on your amazing Husband who gets home from work and will still wash a sink full of dishes. Let's give credit!

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

🤫Shhhhh... Let's not spoil the fun 🤭😆

[@ganeshprasadpuranik3738]

Really amazing hubby of yours 😂👌

[@sophiadene6316]

Lovely accent well spoken and helpful information. Thanks. Sounds like have been educated in a catholic school.

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

That's a high compliment but I'll take it 💅 😄. Stay connected ❤

[@sophiadene6316]

@@AasaiRasaiRecipes I am from Kandy. Yea.

[@noahjuanjuneau9598]

Oh thank you so much for taking the time and great care to post these tips. We just purchased our first unglazed clay pot that is the inner liner of a Slow Cooker (previously my slow cooker had a glazed crockery insert). So here is my question: *We have no oven* - do you think it would work to heat the empty pot after applying oil *in the slow cooker itself* with the setting at low? Or would we risk cracking the pot to heat it that way while empty ? Thank you in advance for any advice… Be well. (Asking from Jakarta)

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Greetings! Thanks for checking out the video. How sure are you that it needs to be seasoned? If the pot is designed to fit into an electric slow cooker, it will be glazed to prevent liquid leaking into the housing. Or it may be a different kind of clay that is not porous, which does not require seasoning. An unglazed clay pot can 'sweat' during cooking or leak a little bit initially, even after seasoning. Just thought you should be aware as this can be hazardous. To your question: You do not need an oven. The step shown in the video is to further strengthen the pot, and it is optional. Soaking and cooking something once is enough to season a clay pot. Do not apply oil on the outside of the pot to season it in a slow cooker as oil is flammable. Hope this helps. 🩷

[@TatyanaValdaBelindaHill]

This is so clear and helpful. Thank you for posting this. Just what I needed. xx

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Glad to know 🙂. Thanks for watching 💕

[@Gloriasplatter]

This is so cool 😉 😎 I've had a previous experience where my unglazed unseasoned pot worked so well just once and there was a leak afterwards oops 😂 I just lost the interest in using clay pots lol I will follow your instructions 🙌 tips from aunt in Matara might add extra precaution. Thanks a lot for sharing and explaining step by step easy to follow instructions 👏💐

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Oh no! You should get back to loving clay pots xx

[@farajo786]

Fascinating.😊I used my pot without knowing that I had to season it. I put a whole chicken in a bag and into the pot. After an hour in the oven the chicken cooked a little, but the potatoes were raw. Next time I shall follow your directions. Any idea how long a whole chicken will take to cook in the oven and at what temperature in degrees? Thank you.

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Oh no! Sorry, the food was undercooked. It is likely the pot absorbed the liquid. Depending on the size of the chicken, it can take anywhere from 1 hr & 15 mins or up to 1 hr 30 mins in a full sized conventional oven at 350F. Ovens can vary significantly by brand, size, and type. So this is only a guide. The thing to remember with clay pots is that they do retain moisture. You may end up with a lot of liquid (from the chicken). To help the unwanted liquid evaporate faster without drying out the chicken, use a higher temperature or low broil towards the end.

[@madar805]

Thanks for easy seasoning Clay pot, excellent elaboration.

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

You are more than welcome MA dar. Thanks for connecting!

[@ptenkras]

Thank you for the detailed description. Can you use the pot to microwave food?

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

You are very welcome! I have used mine for reheating food occasionally and have had no issues.

[@rekttrader5112]

Best Method to season the earthen pot. ❤

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Glad you agree! 🙂❤️

[@ash-rs1it]

Excellent video. I also have clay pots that I use for drinking water storage and of course they are not seasoned, the water does not taste good anymore like it used to when I bought them new. I have washed the pots and also submerged them in hot water with baking soda but nothing is helping. It is hard to find clay pots so I must fix the ones I have.

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Thank you so much! Use only regular cold water to soak. The taste of baking soda or anything else you add into the water will be abosrbed by the pot, so avoid using. Water pots tend to get slimy on the inside after several weeks. So when washing it, use a scouring pad to gently scrub the inside to maintain the pot. Hope this helps.

[@nainajani7825]

Good information

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Thank you for your feedback. Much appreciated 🙏

[@Medic3000]

wonderful information!

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Thank you 😁

[@lalitasubramanian5499]

Can you give advice for a gas stove - flame level of 2/3/4? I just got a new pot. And landed on the best advice - yours🙏

[@SusanGeyer-l4k]

Can bake it in the sun before first use .... have no oven? I live in southern spain.

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

It might work. This is an added step, which is optional. You could just skip this part altogether.

[@wenchefauske6898]

Used to put the Sunday-steak inside and put on the clay top. Juicy and fabulous

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Now that's brilliant 👏 😀

[@amofiz22]

I am enjoying now your video Madame. Which is better for cooking glazed or unglazed clay put. Thanks for your answer

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Thank you for watching! 🙂 Unglazed is always best if you are concerned about healthy cooking. These pots have no toxic chemical layer (glaze) to make it waterproof. Glazed pots are convenient because they don't need to be seasoned. They also look better with a sheen or shine and a brighter color from the glaze.

[@amofiz22]

@@AasaiRasaiRecipes Many thanks

[@ismailturk6073]

Thank you so much for this video, I wonder should I buy glazed pot or Unglazed, which one is better for health reason, some glazed caly pots are so shiney and I wonder ..!! thanks again.

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Definitely go for unglazed pot as it is the best and safest for health. Glazed pots look shiny and nice but the glaze can be toxic and it gets into the food.

[@ismailturk6073]

@@AasaiRasaiRecipes Thank you for answer, it was very helpfull ,

[@antonya6230]

Hello great video,very educational thank you very much. I would like to ask, do i need to season the pot with oil and into the oven every time?

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Thank you so much. Glad it's helpful. You only need do it once before using it the first time and never again 😊.

[@mariakashif6687]

What stove top u have? Can I use clay pot on the electric stove like ceramic glass top

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Mine is an electric coil stove top. The clay pot will scratch and damage the ceramic glass top so it is not advisable.

[@SamSung-bf7bq]

Yes tq for so kindly sharing. I wonder if u are able to share about seasoning a new iron wok for the first time? God bless u much:)))

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Hi Sam Sung, thank you for watching and for the suggestion. Will do my best. God bless you too!

[@mybabyandme08]

Hi thanks so much for this helpful video. Followed the steps. In the end, the water volume was less when doing the water test. Do we repeat the process if water level has reduced ?

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Hi 👋, I am so glad the video was helpful! You don't need to repeat the process unless you see a pool of water under the pot. I think your pot is ready to use. It is normal to see some liquid lost to absorption but it should not seep from under the pot on to your counter/table. It will finish seasoning when used.

[@lalitasubramanian5499]

Can you please advice for a gas stove - flame level 2/3/4/5? Should i gradually bring it to medium? I just got a new pot. And landed on the best advice for seasoning. 🙏

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Thanks Lalita 💗. Clay pots are best used at medium temperature as they hold heat for a long time. It doesn't make sense to cook on high flame as it will not make a difference in the way the pot conducts heat. I would use a flame level of upto 3 or 4 for the most part, whichever is 'medium' on a gas stove.

[@jullecours8324]

what a great video; thank you for such clear instructions! do you know if this technique should be used on the unglazed part of a partially glazed pot, or would that seasoning process be different?

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Thanks Jul! Glad it was helpful. Is it a serving pot or a cooking pot? Usually if it is a cooking pot, it will have a soft or hard glaze all over it and does not need to be seasoned. If it is an unglazed lid of a pot then it can be seasoned this way. However, I would not touch the pot if it is not meant to be seasoned.

[@jullecours8324]

thank you for your response! it's a cooking pot, where the inside part the food touches is glazed but I'm pretty sure the outside of the pot is not. it's meant for cooking on a fire because it has little feet to go over the coals.

[@SG-xo3xt]

This was a great video but my seasoning did not go well for my very large and heavy clay tagine. It submerged for about 18 hours. I dried it off, oiled it and then put it in the oven at 400 for 20 minutes. When It cooled, I put 3 cups of room temperature water and after an hour, I only was able to get 2 cups back. The rest had absorbed into the clay. It appears the seasoning didn't work. Can you advise what I should do next? Thank you!

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

That's normal with some clay pots. It is not that the seasoning hasn't worked. Go ahead and start using the pot to cook in, as it will finish seasoning on its own. Since the pot is porous, it is normal that it absorbs any liquid even after it has been seasoned and used many times. This is the nature of clay. To prevent absorbtion, avoid keeping the food for too long in the pot after cooking.

[@SG-xo3xt]

Wonderful news, Thank you!!

[@onionpatchkids]

Hi! before seeing this, I read that you should soak for 30 minutes and then do the oil and put it in the stove at 250-325 F for 2 hours. And that you have to soak in cold water for 15 minutes before every use to allow for steaming. Having already now seasoned it, Will that 30 minutes be enough? Should I soak it again for 24 hours even thought it's been oiled? Does the 24 hours duration keep you from having to do it before every use?

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Hi 👋, don't complicate it. Seasoning a pot is very simple. You only need to soak it once and never again so it is important to adequately soak the first time. From my experience, soaking for 30 minutes is not enough. If the pot is not leaking water after soaking (test it as shown in this video), then it is seasoned and requires just one additonal step of boiling some water or cooking something in it (I used a little coconut) and then discard what was cooked. Now, the pot is ready to use. You don't need to use oil or bake it at all, as this is only an additional optional step. And baking for hours is not necessary or advised. If your pot is not leaking, then start using it as normal for cooking.

[@irenehernandez9429]

I bought one for beans so I'm I've got it soaking, I hope I do this right, I'm excited/nervous. Grandma used to make beans in hers all the time.

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

I am excited for you! The beans will turn out excellent 👌. Keep checking though. Claypots tend to burn the food in the middle of the pot if not stirred frequently.

[@OscarTheSausageDog]

What a great instructional video! Do you think you could you use coconut oil, rather than the coconut in your video?

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Thank you! Coconut oil will not be a good substitute for the grated coconut refuse. Instead, boil some water or cook about a tablespoon of rice in a cup of water until the rice is cooked. Discard and do not use.

[@GurmeetKaur-gz2ip]

Hi can you use on gas hob please let me know also do we have to put it in the oven thanks great video

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Hi 👋, yes, you can use on a gas hob, and no, you do not need to put in the oven. Skip this step entirely if you wish. Only soak the pot and cook something in it after it has completely air dried. Or else the pot will crack due to thermal shock going from soaking to hot stove too soon.

[@cookwithsheeba9775]

Thanks for the detailed description ❤️🌟

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Sure! Glad you found it to he helpful 🙏

[@AnupBhattacherjee]

Thank you very much for this useful post.

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

You're welcome! Glad it was helpful!

[@oscarmarfori613]

I bought myself a new clay pot and washed it before using and pat it dry with my kitchen towel and started sautéing my aromatics halfway during the sauté I heard a very loud Crack and some oil and ingredients came up flying all over my kitchen, I knew something bad just happened to the pot but with that misfortune I am still interested in getting another one and be able to cook with it hopefully i just wish I found your video earlier that I don't have to damage a really good clay pot

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Oh no! Sorry that it happened to you. Thank you for sharing your experience. It will be helpful to others too. Seasoning the pot and preventing thermal shock are important to know. Glad you plan to try again! Feel free to reach out if you have questions ❤️

[@govind3294]

It is well-explained and easy. You do have very good knowledge and experience of using clay pots. Still, I have few Queries, ma'am: 1.) Do we apply the oil on the wet clay pot itself, without drying it out first? 2.) Also, if we don't have oven, can we put the clay pot over gas stove? 3.) If yes, then how much should be the stove's flame--simmering, medium or high flame? 4.) Will the unglazed clay pot stop being porous even to air with this seasoning? Thanks!

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Hi 👋, thanks for your kind comment and questions. You should wipe-dry the pot as shown in the video before applying the oil. You do not need to air dry it but if you have time you can dry it that way and then apply the oil. Do not keep the oiled pot on the gas stove. It can only be done in an oven for safety reasons. However you can skip this step altogether. Only do the soaking and cooking/boiling something in it to season. The pot will continue to be porous. It is the nature of clay pots. Seasoning it correctly will prevent the pot from leaking out any liquid. It will absorb liquids like curries if you cook and leave it in the pot for too long which will make the curry dry. So as soon as you cook in it, transfer the food into a different bowl.

[@govind3294]

@@AasaiRasaiRecipes Wow! Thanks for the quick, detailed and complete answers!!👃👃

[@samwilson3178]

Wonderful video. Thank you

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

You are more than welcome! Thanks for checking it out.

[@divyadivya-by7tn]

Your explanation was amazing mam..tq.whether we need to follow the same procedure for black clay pots.?

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Thank you Divya. Any unglazed clay pot meant for cooking will have to follow a seasoning process like this. Even a black clay pot 🙂

[@josefinasanchez6528]

Thank you very much … recently, I bought one pot.

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

You are most welcome 🙏. Enjoy your new pot! 😊

[@footballedit1067]

Good one. We use similar pots in India, especially for cooking fish. Food cooked is so tasty in these pots.

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Hi Nazia, thanks for checking it out. Like the Kerala fish curry? :) Yes, you are right food is amazing when cooked in clay pots. xx

[@mentaritravel1004]

love this! Just bought an earthenware clay pot and looking forward to cook delish food! :)

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Wonderful! You're going to love cooking in it :)

[@mr.freeman3174]

Thank You for this wonderful iformative video! I am looking forward to purchase an unglazed clay pot like this, I prefer unglazed because I have red it is healthier and more traditional of course. One question, I understand I have to do this procedure before the first use, but I am not sure, please tell me, do I need to repeat this process before every use or what do I need to do each time before using? Thank You

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Hi RM, thank you so much! You need to season the pot once,[ before first use only. It does not need to be seasoned this way ever again after that. Each time you take out the pot to use, there is nothing else you need to do.

[@kapaa1768]

1. Soak the new clay pot in tap water (in a sink) for 15-24 hours (more the merrier!) undisturbed. 2. After the 15-24 hours, take the pot out and scrub gently, rinse and dry it with towel. 3. Apply a few drops of (any) cooking oil on the pot (in and out) and distribute it evenly using your finger. 4. Place the pot in middle rack of the oven, set the baking temperature to 400 degrees and start baking for 20 mins (no preheat). 5. Take it out of the oven, let it cool. 6. Add some water to the pot, let it stand for an hour to check is there any water seepage/lost. The pot is now seasoned and ready to use.

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

That's it! Thank you!

[@TheBlackSheepDiaries]

@@AasaiRasaiRecipes Thanks for the great video and may I ask why we need to soak it in water 1st? I'm just starting to make natural clay pottery and had a successful firing of a nice bowl. I threw some fresh hot dirty rice in it last night and used it for the 1st time, mmmm! Some moisture came through the bottom as expected, Ready to season it now. Thanks!

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Hi @TheblackSheepDiaries, soaking in water seals the clay pot due to its porous nature. It is the 1st step in the process of seasoning and must be done before cooking in the pot. It is wonderful that you're making your own clay pottery! Good luck!

[@JS-ne5pk]

Can we use it in any electric stove?

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Only the electric coil stove top. If stove top is glass the pot will damage it.

[@jysb2]

Hi, I am seasoning my pots using this method, but I also purchased a stand for the pots to use with a wood fire. Does the stand also need to be seasoned to help prevent cracking when lighting the fires under it? Or can I start using the stand straight away?

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Hi, it is not necessary. Also, there is no guarantee that any clay items will not crack even if you seaon it correctly. It all depends on the purity of the clay, if it was dried correctly and the firing temperature of the kiln. With that in mind, if you feel it is better to season the stand, only soak it in water. Then, completely air dry before starting to use to prevent cracking or thermal shock.

[@avelinadiso2682]

This video of yours is very interesting, I have been looking for this type of cook ware but I don't know where to order them, can you please please tell me to order so I can get few for my self. Thank you you much.

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Hi Avelina, thank you for watching. Please visit ParadiseTradingLLC for similar clay pots. Hope this helps ❤.

[@rakhitaresh5076]

Hi.....Thanks for this upload....wonderfully explained in detail🙏🏻

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

My pleasure 😊 Rakhi!

[@viviannwabueze4306]

Hello,thank you so much for this amazing video. Can the baking process be done on a stove instead of an oven after applying the oil?

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

I would not advise to keep the oiled pot on direct heat like a stove top. Oil catches fire and it could be a disaster! You can skip this step altogether if you have done the prior steps to seson the pot ❤

[@viviannwabueze4306]

Thank you so much.

[@sarahbaluran4019]

Hi im watching your vedeo which is great i am from philippine i have only one pot that comes from morroco so i want it will last longer but the problem is maybe i used it 3 times already my question is can i follow what you did even i used it already ? Im happy and greatfull if you can answer me thank you so mush

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Hi Sarah, thanks for your question. Did you season it at all before you started using it the first time? 🤔 Once seasoned, you don't need to do anything else, really. You can still follow the directions in the video to strengthen the pot but if it has been previously seasoned, it may not make much of a difference.

[@firozahossen8307]

I have been seasoning like said in the 2nd tutorial thank you for sharing 🙂

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

You are very welcome 😊

[@d33bug]

Is it okay to season the pot multiple times? The reason is I have no idea if the seller seasoned it before shipping it to me. Also, can I do this to black claypots as well? Thanj you so much!

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

You only need to season it once. Normally, these pots are not seasoned by a seller. Test and see by measuring some water into the pot and observe for 15 minutes. If the pot has not been seasoned, you will see a pool of water under the pot. The water level in the pot will also have reduced quite a bit in a short time. A seasoned pot will retain the water. There will not be a visibly reduced water level. Hope this helps.

[@kaankayimoglu3640]

Amazing Video! Super helpful! Thank you! How would u do the process for the glazed clay pot ( I got one for making Korean Bibimbop ). Thank you and have a nice day.

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Thanks Kaan! Happy to help. You do not need to season a glazed clay pot. They are ready to use 😁

[@rinamaharajh2557]

Thank u dear heart for this well explained video ,I was gifted this precious clay pot , unglazed it's a 3litre ,has a lid wit steam outlet and rubber ring ,wit a metal clip, the instruction said ,wash the cooker wit water and keep it dry for 20min,there after I placed it on a tawa ,added warm water and placed a sweet potato to test cooking , ,jus saw ur video on seasoning and preparing ,😬,can I season now

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Hi Rina, I don't think I understand the type of pot you have but I would follow the instructions that came with it. It's never too late to season an unglazed clay pot. If it is not seasoned, you simply cannot cook in it as it will leak pretty badly. I would check again why the instructions say to wash it instead of soaking it.

[@rinamaharajh2557]

@@AasaiRasaiRecipes 🤗thank u Aasai for ur swift response,perhaps I could send u a picture and the instructions ,but I realized this pot has to be seasoned,how could I contact u please 😇

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Hi Rina, feel free to message me on fb (Aasai Rasai) or [e-mail] 😊

[@n11421]

I have a clay pot but it has not been used at all. Can it be used in a electric stove?? Thank you for the tips I will be seasoning it tomorrow!

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

That depends on the type of clay pot. If it is unglazed and is designed to cook on a traditional hearth, then it can be used on an electric coil stove too.

[@HBFREEWORLD]

Nice 👍🏽 informative vlog - thank You

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

You are very welcome and glad you enjoyed it!

[@wemcal]

great video and information.... thanks

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching! :)

[@saraayesha8965]

Excellent explanation... Thankyou

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Glad you liked it sara! Stay connected xx

[@prajaktapatkar5890]

I am in USA, where can I buy such clay pot here? I want it to cook fish curries.Loved ur video and the explanation. Thanks a bunch!

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Hi Prajakta, thank you for your kind comments. Glad you found it helpful. As for these pots, we will be getting a shipment soon, but with covid there have been delays. Please stay in touch and I will post an update on my Aasai Rasai fb page :)

[@lelalima6806]

I want buy some clay pot here in 🇺🇸 too , but I don’t trust in Amazon for good and quality clay pot like yours!

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

lela lima, thank you! I completely understand. Pots will be available soon. Stay in touch. xx

[@salmawani1456]

Thanks Mam.....very informative ❤️❤️❤️

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Glad you found it to be helpful Salma. Thanks for watching 💕

[@ishratsatter5628]

Nice. Please kindly show how to seasoning curd pot and will use high flaming gas stove. I bought yougut with pot. After eat curd will tell me how do seasoning curd pot and will cook high flaming gas stove

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

It is the same way to season. You can skip applying oil and only soak the pot in water, then boil a little rice, or some water. Do not use what you boil. Just throw it away. Now the pot is ready to use for curd.

[@vulpecula182]

Is it normal if the pot is still absorbing water after seasoning?

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Yes it is. Once you start to use it regularly, the pot will finish seasoning. If you store food in it, it will continue to absorb the liquid in the food. After several hours, you will notice this.

[@geniuspharmacist]

Did you allow it to dry before applying the oil? If the pores are still full of water, does this prevent the seasoning oil from absorbing into the pores?

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Hi, thanks for your question. No I did not dry it. The water is evaporated by the heat and the oil is able to absorb.

[@kriskelley1131]

I followed your procedure. The water put in my clay bowls evaporated a lot. What do I do now! My clay bowls are from Argentina and somehow made under ground. Previously I was successful in seasoning a very large square pot, following your instructions previously. That pot is also from Argentina, made the same way!

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

You may have to season them a little longer follow step 1 in the video (fully immersing the clay pot in water). Some pots take a few hours longer to season this way. Once you have seasoned it this way, keep using it and the pot will complete seasoning on its own with each use.

[@kaydee8365]

Hello! Thank you for a detailed video. Much appreciated. I plan to use my new claypot as a dutch oven to bake sourdough bread in it. Hence before i put it in the oven do i need to soak it every time for 15 minutes or so please? I will follow your instructions to season it but before every oven bake is there any process I need to follow please? Many thanks

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Hi Khurs D, It's awesome you're trying out bread in the clay pot. While I have not yet used the pot for baking bread, if the recipe calls for soaking then follow those instructions. Bear in mind that clay pots help retain moisture too. So it may not always be necessary to soak an unglazed pot each time prior to baking bread, depending on the type of bread you're trying to bake. For instance, dough that has a higher water content (shaggy dough).

[@kaydee8365]

@@AasaiRasaiRecipes Thank you for your prompt reply! I am going to be baking sourdough in this claypot and oven spring is best achieved through plenty of steam being generated in the closed pot during baking. Since every boule of sourdough bread baking for an hour will deplete the moisture contained in the claypot i was thinking that soaking it before every bake will replenish the much needed moisture that in turn helps to generate steam. The recipe only calls for the use of a dutch oven. No other details given.

[@sanjijay]

Hi lovely video thank you so much! So I made a mistake and seasoned the pot in the oven and then did the water measuring and the pot is absorbing it what do I do?

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Hi thanks for watching! You should go back and complete step 1 of soaking the pot for several hours. Once that is complete you can follow the next step of cooking some coconut in it or boiling water. Discard those. Baking it in the oven is just an alternate method.

[@ladyw6773]

@AncientPottery perhaps this will help in the quest for sealing pottery?

[@samsukvlog7451]

I have followed all the steps from the beginning and poured 500ml water in the pot after taking it out of the oven but water reduced to 430 ml after one hour. What should i do now? Do i repeat the seasoning procedure from the beginning to end and see the seasoning is done properly? Please reply.

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Hi, you can use the pot now. As long as it is not seeping a significant amount of water from under when you lift the pot and check, you should be fine. When you use it, the pot will complete seasoning Side note: Clay pots will always absorb any liquid since it is porous. It should not seep out the liquid, though. So avoid keeping liquids or gravy in the pot for hours.

[@samsukvlog7451]

Thank you dear. I have cooked in that pot. The food is really tasty.

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

That's awesome! Glad everything worked out :)

[@GurpreetSingh-cq6gn]

Hi there, this video is helpful and informative. Here I need to ask you one question regarding the test, mentioned in this video. Few days ago,I bought a pitcher, just to keep drinking water in it. I submerged it in water for 24 hours. Then, I dried it completely. After that, I applied oil on it, no doubt only one time I applied oil and on its outside. Whole oil was absorbed completely. Then , I pour water in it. Unfortunately, Water level is keep going down and water droplets are keep appearing on its bottom. Does this mean I need to soak it more or does it need more oil? Kindly guide me regarding what could be the solution?

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Hi Gurpreet, oil is not necessary for the pitcher. It is normal for clay to absorb anything that's applied on it that's why it absorbed the oil. As for soaking the pitcher, sometimes 24 hours may not be enough. Try soaking it for another 12, 18 or 24 hours. It should be completely submerged in water. Since clay is porous, it is normal for the pitcher to absorb the water and then put it back out, hence there will be some water droplets and moisture seeping out on the outside and underneath the pitcher. This resolves on its own over time as you keep using the pitcher. Hope this helps.

[@privatename2426]

@@AasaiRasaiRecipes hi! I had this same problem after soaking mine. There was water droplets on the bottom but in addition to that, it had an odor? Is that normal.

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Hi Private Name! If there are just a few water droplets, after soaking the pot as directed, then it is still fine to start using. It will become fully seasoned once you start using it and it will not leak anymore. Some pots that are made in India do have an odor. It probably comes from the type of soil or clay used. Clay pots from Sri Lanka do not have an odor.

[@privatename2426]

@@AasaiRasaiRecipes hi Aasai! Thank you for your reply. I got this (well actually my grandma got it for me!) From TJ MAXX. It says made in Italy. It's glazed as well so maybe that is the odor. Thanks so much and am excited to try some of your recipes!

[@sunshinewithin435]

Ma'am what if it's glazed, can we use the same method and bake it in the oven ? Information will be much appreciated. Thank you ma'am.

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Hi Oma, glazed pots do not require seasoning as the glaze protects the pot from leaking, absorbing liquids, and strengthens the pot. This method for glazed pots will not serve any purpose.

[@alanrios3795]

Nice tutorial, I have a problem with my new and cured pot and cazo, I did two process to cited them but now at my first attempt to use it the inside of the lid and the rim of the pot turned bright silver. Any help would be appreciated, is it safe to use. They are glazed

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

I am not familiar as to why it turned silver. I am guessing it is the glaze. Not sure as to the safety. Glaze contains lead so I would not use it if there is a doubt.

[@alanrios3795]

@@AasaiRasaiRecipes Thank you

[@aashnadevkota921]

Namaste can I put it in microwave?which setting and what temperature should I use?thanku

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

🙏 worked for me on high power.

[@hardikamin1982]

Hi, Is Glazed pot is good for food…? I’m but concern about recently bought clay pot and has glazed/layer of transparent coating and not sure abt whether I should cook with that coating ON….Advise would be much appreciated. Regards,

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Hi Hardik, If you have concerns about the safety of the glaze on the pot then don't use it. Having said that, depending on the type of glaze and good manufacturing practices it may be safe to use too. It all depends on your level of comfort. Keep in mind that glazes are chemicals than can leach into your food especially if the pot is damaged or chipped.

[@ashwinisangam3512]

Nice explanation. I bought some clay pots. Do I have to season it every after cooking or only once before I use it for the first time? TIA

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Thanks! Season only once, before first use.

[@cl1ffB]

I wish I had seen this earlier. I bought a glazed clay pot. Which I love. It now has a chip in the glaze. Will it still be ok to use? Should I try this strengthening method? Thanks in advance ☺️

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Hi Heather, this method of seasoning is only for an unglazed clay pot. I am sorry to hear of your damaged glazed pot. To be honest, it may not be safe to use for food. Have to tested it to check if the glaze contains lead (using a lead test kit)? It is better to use it for display unless the manufacturer can confirm that it is safe to use. xx

[@PS-eu6qk]

Thank you for this informative video. Is it safe to use clay pots directly on coil burners or should we use a heat dissipater?

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Hi P S, you welcome! I have been cooking in this and my small clay pots (directly on the coils) everyday since this video in December 2019. So far I have had no issues. See my playlist for 'Sri Lankan Clay Pot Curries' for videos of using this pot even on very high heat. Hope this helps :)

[@annettepickering7797]

Can I use a seasoned clay pot on an electric radiant ceramic stove??

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Hi Annette, it is possible depending on the type of clay used for the pot. Some types of clay pots are not recommended to use on direct heat. The manufacturer's advice will best in that case. There are also risks of scratches on your stove top as clay pots are not comparatively smooth. Hope this helps.

[@maduf2789]

Thank you very much for the video.I have a question. Do you exactly if they are using pure clay to make the clay pots we use in Srilanka or if they mix materials as lead to make stronger with the clay? I always wanted to know that.Thank you very much.

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Hi Madu, that's a good question. Yes, they generally use 'pure' (this is debatable) clay but it depends on the place that make the pots. The industry is not very well regulated it seems, since this is a traditional craft and the artisans learn through apprenticeship under more experienced workers. We can look for signs of lead use, such as a soft or high sheen/shine and bright/ vibrant color which indicates they mixed something into the clay. All natural Sri Lankan clay pots look comparatively dull, have some imperfections and will likely have scuff marks. There can be other ways the clay can be toxic or contaminated. For instance, if they are sourcing the clay from areas near industrial and human waste. It's best to get clay pots from reputed or recommend sellers. Hope this helps.

[@maduf2789]

@@AasaiRasaiRecipes I appreciate your taking time to answer me. It did definitely help .

[@samberg1477]

Would the sesame oil be pungent and attract bugs? Can you use a different oil?

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Hi, no, it is not pungent when used this way and has ever attracted bugs in my experience. If this is a concern, you can certainly try another type of oil 🙂

[@judyhalliday8567]

I was just given a clay pot for cooking. The inside of the pot is glazed and the outside is not. The lid is not glazed. Do I follow the instructions in your video for the glazed pot? Thank you for the video.

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Hi Judy, thank you for your question. All you need to do is soak the pot and the lid. So soaking will strengthen the unglazed exterior. Since the lid will not be in contact with direct heat, you do not need to follow all the steps shown in the video.

[@mikeu5380]

Hi from Japan. Thank you for the advice. But I wish to know if the pot had been fired once (bisque-fired) or twice in the kiln, before seasoning it. Cheers!

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Greetings! To the best of my knowledge, an ancient Sri Lankan clay pot like the one in this video is loaded into the traditional kiln once, and then fired for several days before being taken out. Not sure if it is the temperature used in bisque firing, though. The traditional pottery makers in Sri Lanka don't use tools for measuring kiln temperature. They go by knowledge and experince handed down from elders.

[@mikeu5380]

@@AasaiRasaiRecipes I see. Thank you.

[@mysymphony67]

Very helpful thanks 👍

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

You're most welcome 😊

[@mysymphony67]

@@AasaiRasaiRecipes Is it safe to use unglazed pot for oven cooking as well?

[@chrislentle5980]

Just put mine in water start Yr process,can't wait to get leg lamb in it mmmm.thank u

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Sounds like a plan. Clay pots are the best for meats. Enjoy! :)

[@sararamos3903]

Aasai, where are you from.? What website could you refer me to to purchase a larger pot like this one in the video? Thank you. Love the pots.

[@AasaiRasaiRecipes]

Hi Sara, I am in the US. This exact pot is likely not available in the US but you can check in Sri Lankan grocery stores for similar ones.

[@sararamos3903]

@@AasaiRasaiRecipes Thank you. after reading a lot of reviews and seeing that sometimes the pots arrive broken or seem too thin or too thick or not big enough, I’m gonna try to look for a store around my area even though it’s a ways away. I love clay pots but the ones from Mexico always have glaze and we do treat them also with baking soda with vinegar for the pot to release the lead in the varnish.