Osburn Steatite Cooking Plates, 8 1/2" X 8 1/2", 2 Pieces

Steatite — also known as soapstone — is a dense, naturally non-porous talc-based metamorphic stone with exceptional thermal properties. Its high density and thermal mass allow it to absorb heat slowly and retain it for extended periods, providing a stable and even cooking temperature across the plate surface that is ideal for cooking meats, fish, and vegetables. Unlike metal surfaces that have high and low temperature zones, steatite distributes heat evenly across its surface. Its naturally non-porous composition means it does not absorb food residues or harbour bacteria, providing exceptional hygienic quality without requiring seasoning or special surface treatment. It is also naturally resistant to very high temperatures without cracking or degrading.

The AC01212 steatite cooking plates are designed to fit around the stovepipe of the appliance — the two plates are positioned on the stove top surface on either side of the stovepipe collar, allowing both plates to lay flat on the cooking surface with the pipe passing between them. This configuration makes the full 8-1/2 inch by 8-1/2 inch cooking surface of each plate available for cooking on the stove top surface alongside the stovepipe, without the pipe obstructing the plates' placement. The design is compatible with all sizes of wood stoves regardless of stovepipe collar diameter.

The AC01212 steatite plates promote even and juicy cooking results that are particularly well suited to meats, fish, and vegetables. The even heat distribution of the steatite surface allows proteins to cook consistently without the scorching or uneven browning that results from metal surface hot spots. The heat retention of the stone helps maintain cooking temperature when food is placed on the surface, preventing the sharp temperature drop that occurs on lower-mass surfaces. The gutter along the plate edge retains excess juices released during cooking, keeping the stove top surface clean. The plates can also be used for keeping cooked food warm without continuing to cook it, as the stone's heat retention properties allow it to hold residual warmth for an extended period after the stove temperature reduces.

The AC01212 steatite plates are dishwasher safe and easy to clean by hand. The naturally non-porous steatite surface does not absorb food residues, making cleaning straightforward — food deposits can be wiped from the smooth polished surface with a damp cloth or sponge. The plates can also be safely washed in a dishwasher without risk of damage to the steatite material. All cleaning must be performed only after the plates have fully cooled to a safe handling temperature — the plates retain heat for an extended period after use on a hot stove surface and must not be handled with bare hands or cleaned while still retaining heat.

Each steatite plate has a unique natural veining pattern created during the geological formation of the stone — no two plates are identical. The stone's natural colour is accentuated and enriched with continued exposure to heat, meaning the plates develop a deepened, richer appearance over time with regular use on the stove top surface. This patina effect is a natural characteristic of steatite and is considered an enhancement of the stone's visual appeal rather than a sign of degradation. The colour development is similar to the patination seen in other natural stone materials that are regularly exposed to heat, and is part of the distinctive visual character of steatite cooking surfaces.

Yes. The AC01212 steatite plates are designed to fit all sizes of wood stoves and are also compatible with BBQ grills. While they are listed as an optional cooking accessory specifically for the Osburn Gusto wood-burning cookstove on the Osburn manufacturer product page, their design to fit around the stovepipe and their universal 8-1/2-inch by 8-1/2-inch dimensions make them suitable for use on any wood stove with a flat top cooking surface large enough to accommodate the plates. They also function well on BBQ grill grates where the even heat distribution and juice-retaining gutter provide the same cooking performance benefits.