How to properly season and care for traditional cookware like cast iron, bronze, clay, and soapstone.
In today’s world of non-stick pans and stainless steel pots, traditional cookware has made a strong comeback—and for good reason. Cast iron, bronze, clayware, and soapstone cookware offer incredible health benefits, better flavor, and a link to age-old cooking techniques. However, owning these timeless kitchen tools also means taking care of them properly. Whether you’re a new owner or a seasoned pro, this guide will help you understand how to season and maintain your traditional cookware, keeping it in tip-top shape for generations.
Let’s explore the secrets to taking care of Cast Iron Cookware, Bronze Cookware, Clayware Cookware, and Soapstone Cookware—all available at 80’s Cookware.
. Cast Iron Cookware: The Time-Tested Favorite
Cast Iron Cookware has been a kitchen staple for centuries. Known for its durability, heat retention, and ability to improve flavor over time, it’s no wonder this material remains so popular. From Cast Iron Skillets and Cast Iron Pans to Cast Iron Dosa tawa, cast iron offers versatility and robust performance.
How to Season Cast Iron Cookware
The seasoning process is essential to creating a natural non-stick layer. Here’s how to do it right:
- Clean the Pan: Before seasoning, wash the cast iron pan with warm water (avoid soap). Dry it completely to avoid rust.
- Apply Oil: Use a thin layer of vegetable oil, flaxseed oil, or canola oil. Rub the oil into the pan with a cloth, ensuring every surface is covered but not dripping.
- Bake It: Place the cookware upside down in a preheated oven at 200°C for an hour. This process hardens the oil and forms a protective layer.
- Cool and Store: Allow the cookware to cool in the oven. Once it’s cool, give it a light wipe with oil before storing it in a dry place.
Cast Iron Care Tips
- Avoid cooking acidic foods like tomatoes in newly seasoned pans as it may strip the seasoning.
- Always clean with water and a soft brush, avoiding soap. Dry immediately and apply a light coat of oil.
- If rust appears, don’t panic. Scrub the rust off with steel wool, re-season, and your pan will be back to life.
2. Bronze Cookware: A Perfect Blend of Tradition and Health
Bronze cookware is renowned for its durability, even heat distribution, and impressive health benefits. Whether you’re cooking in a Bronze uruli or sautéing in a Bronze Fry Pan, this cookware doesn’t require traditional seasoning like cast iron.
Does Bronze Cookware Need Seasoning?
Unlike cast iron, Bronze Cookware doesn’t need heavy-duty seasoning. However, here’s a quick tip for the first-time use:
- Wash the cookware with warm water and mild soap to remove any residue.
- Dry the cookware thoroughly after washing to prevent watermarks or tarnishing.
Bronze Care Tips
- Regular Cleaning: Clean your bronze cookware with warm water and a soft cloth. Avoid using abrasive scrubbers to keep the finish shiny.
- Patina Control: Over time, bronze develops a patina, giving it an antique look. If you prefer the shiny bronze finish, mix lemon juice and baking soda for a gentle polish.
- Storage: Store in a dry place to avoid tarnishing and oxidation.
3. Clayware: Bringing Earthy Flavors to Your Kitchen
Cooking in clay pots has been a tradition for centuries, especially in Indian households. Clayware Cookware, like the Red clay Cooking Pot or Blackened Clay Meen/Fish Chatti, adds an earthy flavor to dishes while also retaining essential nutrients.
Seasoning Clayware
Before using your clay pot, you’ll need to go through a simple preparation process:
- Soak the Pot: Submerge the clay pot in water for 12 to 24 hours before its first use. This prevents cracks from forming when it heats up.
- Strengthen the Pot: After soaking, cook rice or rice water in the clay pot. This seals the pores and strengthens the material, making it ready for daily cooking.
Clayware Care Tips
- Avoid Sudden Temperature Changes: Don’t place a hot clay pot on a cold surface or expose it to extreme heat too quickly, as it may crack.
- Cleaning: Rinse with water and use a soft sponge. Avoid soap, as the porous material can absorb it and affect the flavor of future dishes.
- Dry and Store: Allow the pot to air dry completely before storing it to avoid mold.
4. Soapstone Cookware: A Cool, Durable Choice for Your Kitchen
Soapstone Cookware, such as Kalchatti, is prized for its ability to retain heat and cook food evenly without reacting to acids or oils. This material is naturally non-porous, making it ideal for slow cooking and storing food.
How to Season Soapstone Cookware
While soapstone doesn’t need as much preparation as clay or cast iron, there are a few steps you should follow to maximize its longevity:
- Rinse the Pot: Wash the soapstone vessel with water before use, and let it air dry.
- Boil Rice Water: Boil rice water (or cook rice) in the pot to strengthen its surface. After boiling, allow the pot to cool gradually before using it for regular cooking.
Soapstone Care Tips
- Cleaning: Since soapstone is non-porous, it won’t absorb flavors or liquids. You can clean it with water and mild soap without affecting future meals.
- Temperature Control: Soapstone cookware should always be heated gradually to prevent cracks. It works best on low to medium heat and retains heat for a long time.
- Storage: Store soapstone in a dry area, and be mindful of its weight—these pots can be quite heavy!
Why Proper Care Matters for Traditional Cookware
Traditional cookware can last for decades—sometimes even generations—with the right care. By following these seasoning and care tips for Cast Iron Cookware, Bronze Cookware, Clayware Cookware, and Soapstone Cookware, you’ll enjoy the benefits of these timeless kitchen tools for years to come.
Not only does proper care improve the functionality of your cookware, but it also helps preserve the natural health benefits that come with using traditional materials. Cast iron boosts iron intake, clayware preserves nutrients, and soapstone maintains even heat for slow, steady cooking.
At 80’s Cookware, we believe in bringing traditional craftsmanship into modern kitchens. By taking care of your cookware, you’re preserving history while enjoying better-tasting, healthier meals.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a fan of the earthy flavors of clayware or the unbeatable heat retention of cast iron, traditional cookware is an investment in your kitchen’s future. With the proper seasoning and care routine, you can ensure that your cookware stays functional, beautiful, and a vital part of your cooking routine.
Ready to take your cooking to the next level? Browse 80’s Cookware, premium selection of Cast Iron Cookware, Bronze Cookware, Clayware Cookware, and Soapstone Cookware, —crafted by artisans and built to last.
Our Best Selling Traditional Cookware
Bronze Kadai: Perfect for frying and making curries, this cookware offers excellent heat retention. Click Here
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Black Uruli with Lid: Great for preparing a variety of dishes while keeping them warm. Click Here
Black Rasam Pot: Ideal for making tangy rasam, enhancing the flavors. Click Here
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Red Clay Cooking Pot: Versatile for various cooking needs. Click Here
Red and Black Kadai: Perfect for frying and sautéing, retaining the natural taste of ingredients. Click Here For Red Kadai, Click Here For Black Kadai.