How to Use Earthenware

Earthenware has been in use for centuries and has been used to create decorative pieces of art as well as containers for food and drink. As long as it is glazed, it can hold any variety of food, and any piece can serve as a decoration for the home or office. For food, earthenware does have some uses that are more popular.

Fermenting

Back when fermentation was discovered as a way to preserve food, large glazed earthenware crocks were the logical choices for fermenting containers. Since earthenware is so porous, it must be glazed for use with food or liquid. One popular fermented food is sauerkraut. Raw cabbage is shredded just as it was in the 1800s, packed into an earthenware crock, sprinkled with coarse salt and covered and weighted down with a lid. This process is still in use today.

Planters

Most everyone should be familiar with those orange-colored heavy, thick containers for houseplants. These are made from a certain type of earthenware called terra cotta. Since they are not used to hold food, they are left unglazed, which is actually a benefit. The terra cotta planter is placed on a shallow dish where water is placed. The water is slowly absorbed through the terra cotta and waters the plant slowly.

Daily Use of Earthenware

• You can use any earthenware that is glazed to serve food and drink at home. Earthenware dishes are still manufactured and sold today and make fine pieces of dinnerware. There are several varieties of earthenware used for dishes. The thing to know about earthenware dishes is that they chip easily.  


• Antique collectors seek out unusual and/or valuable pieces of earthenware for their personal collections, as do museums. In that case, earthenware is displayed as part of a collection. Old crocks are sought after for country-style decorating and used as umbrella holders.