Terracotta tajine met schaal en deksel naast een kommetje olie, klaar voor het eerste gebruik

Using a tagine for the first time: how to prepare it

A new tagine? Here is how to prepare the base and lid, prevent thermal shock, and keep the earthenware clean.

A tagine requires a brief preparation before its first use. Follow these steps to prepare the base and lid for cooking.

Step 1: Wash the tagine

Wash both the base and the lid with lukewarm water.

Step 2: Dry everything thoroughly

Dry both parts carefully. Do not use the tagine while it is still damp.

Step 3: Grease the inside with oil

Grease the inside of the base and the lid thoroughly with vegetable oil, such as sunflower oil or olive oil. Let the oil soak in for 10 to 15 minutes. The tagine is then ready for its first use.

What should you pay attention to while cooking?

Earthenware does not handle sudden temperature changes well. Therefore, heat the tagine slowly. Are you using it in the oven? Do not preheat the oven. Also, always check that the tagine is completely dry before you use it.

Have you not used the tagine for a long time? Then repeat the steps for the first use before you start cooking with it again.

How to clean the tagine

Wash the tagine by hand with warm water and a little dish soap. Use a non-metal brush and do not let the earthenware soak in water. Afterwards, let the base and the lid dry thoroughly to prevent mold.

These instructions are based on the user manual from Marocstore.nl. For a different tagine, always check the instructions that come with that specific product.