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Care and Use • modern porcelain is dishwasher
safe. • suitable for oven use up to 230°C/450°F/Gas mark 8 and under the grill
for browning (briefly only); always leave a gap of at least 2" between the dish
and the heat source. • most porcelain items have unglazed bases. This speeds up
heat transference. When using in the oven, place on to a pre-heated oven tray.
• microwave safe unless there is any metallic banding or decoration. • do not
subject to sudden extreme temperature changes, e.g. straight from freezer to oven.
Earthenware
Earthenware is fired at lower temperatures than porcelain, so it is porous, making
it more prone to staining. However, because it heats up gently and then retains
the heat well, it is excellent for slower cooking recipes such as casseroles.
Earthenware comes in many shapes, styles and colours and it is relatively inexpensive.
Care and Use • ideal for oven use up
to 200°C/400°F/Gas mark 6. • do not subject to sudden extreme temperature changes,
e.g. straight from freezer to oven. • dry thoroughly after washing and, if lidded,
store with the lid off. Store upside down to ensure thorough drying through unglazed
base. • crazing in the glaze is quite normal and will not affect the performance
of your earthenware. Stoneware
Stoneware is fired at higher temperatures than earthenware, making it less porous.
It is most commonly used for crockery and food storage vessels like jugs and bowls.
Care and use as earthenware. Terracotta
Terracotta is mostly used unglazed for items like chicken bricks, tandoori ovens
and potato bakers. The manufacturer usually recommends soaking before use so that
the food being cooked will absorb the moisture from the clay.
Care and use • wash in hot water with a little vinegar or salt, if
necessary, and dry thoroughly after use.
• safe for oven use up to 200°C/400°F/Gas
mark 6. | 
