Definition & Meaning of "crock"

What is a "crock"?

A crock is a deep, cylindrical, earthenware container, typically used for food storage or fermentation. Crockery has been used for centuries as a traditional method for preserving foods like pickles, sauerkraut, and kimchi. It is often made of ceramic or stoneware and has a glazed or unglazed interior to prevent food from sticking and to facilitate cleaning. Crocks come in various sizes, from small ones for home use to large ones for commercial purposes. They may have a lid to seal the contents and may also include weights or stones to keep food submerged in liquid during fermentation. Crocks are valued for their durability, as well as their ability to maintain a consistent temperature, making them ideal for fermenting foods and pickling.