
Most clay pots are unglazed, and before you use your pot for the first time, you should soak it for at least half an hour, so that the moisture will be retained in the foods you cook. For subsequent uses, soaking the pot for about fifteen minutes should be fine.


Place food into pot and prepare for cooking.


The majority of clay pots that you can purchase are for oven use, but there are some models that can be used on top of the stove and even on the grill, be sure to check the manufacturer's instructions for complete directions on how to cook with your new clay pot. Clay pots are even microwave-safe, but low settings are best.

Clay pots may be cleaned by scrubbing them with salt; soaps or detergents should not be used, because the clay may absorb them.