The 10 Best Clay Cooking Pots

Handcrafted in Germany, the Romertopf by Reston Lloyd (about $80) provides the best of both worlds with a glazed bottom and unglazed top, making it easy to clean but still able to circulate steam well. There are several sizes to choose from, including one large enough for a turkey.

The sleek, eye-catching styling of the Ancient Cookware La Chamba (around $56) just begs to be noticed, so you probably won't want to hide it away in a kitchen cabinet. It's functional, too, and can be used in your oven and on glass, electric, and gas stovetops.

The materials used to craft the Crazy Korean Cooking Stone Bowl (appx. $43) are free from lead, arsenic, and cadmium, as you'd expect, but unlike many, it's glaze-fired twice and dishwasher safe. Plus, you can select either a lidded or non-lidded version.

If you crave moist, succulent meats and veggies, the Raphael Rozen Tagine (appx. $64) can help you satisfy your hunger. Its conical lid collects evaporation then drips the juices back onto your food, ensuring that you never have to settle for tough, dry meals.

For casserole-style recipes, the Ancient Cookware Cazuela (around $15) is a fine choice, one that's handmade in Mexico from entirely food-safe materials. It'll hold up to 3 quarts without spilling over, and with proper care, it could become a family heirloom.

A little more versatile than most, the Kinto Kakomi Ih Donabe (about $87) not only lets you simmer but also steam, since it's got a convenient tray not found on many other models. It's even safe for halogen, gas, and induction cooktops, so it should fit right into most kitchens.

For busy people, clay cookware can sometimes be a little demanding, but the TianJi Purple Slow Cooker (about $100) makes life much simpler. And with its ample 4-liter interior and 24-hour timer, you'll be ready to sit down to supper with your large family when it's convenient for you.

You'll need to season it before first use, but the Peregrino Terra Cotta Cazuela (around $28) is a practical choice for traditional Spanish or Mexican dishes, including paella. Featuring a 6-cup capacity, it offers a 9.5-inch diameter with 2-inch walls.

You'll wow your dinner guests with these Vyatka Ceramics Ramekins (about $55), which are great for crafting individual appetizers or desserts. They're also a snap to use thanks to an included oven fork that helps you lift and carry them with ease.

You don't have to go to a restaurant for hot pot, because the Ancient Cookware Thai Medium (about $32) allows you to serve this dish right in your home. Or, you might press it into service as a centerpiece or charming soup or stew holder for the table.