Using the best cast iron cookware in India can make a big difference in cooking delicious and healthy meals. In India, cast iron cookware is becoming popular because of its many benefits. It’s durable, heats evenly, and retains heat well, making it perfect for Indian dishes.
Cast iron is also versatile—you can fry, bake, grill, and slow-cook with it. Plus, it adds a bit of iron to your food, which is great for health. Choosing the right cast iron cookware for your kitchen is important, so we’ve put together this guide to help you find the best options. Let’s dive in and explore!
What To Look For In Cast Iron Cookware?
When choosing the best cast iron cookware, there are a few important things to consider to ensure you get the most out of your kitchen tools.
- Durability
- Cast iron cookware is known for its long-lasting nature. A good cast iron pan or pot can last for generations if taken care of properly. Look for solid construction and avoid any products with cracks or weak points.
- Heat Retention and Distribution
- One of the best features of cast iron cookware is its ability to retain and distribute heat evenly. This ensures your food cooks evenly, preventing hot spots and ensuring that everything is cooked to perfection.
- Versatility
- The best cast iron cookware should be versatile enough to handle various cooking methods. Whether you’re frying, baking, grilling, or slow-cooking, a good cast iron piece can do it all. This versatility is what makes cast iron a favorite in many kitchens.
- Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance
- Cast iron requires a bit of care to maintain its non-stick properties. Regular seasoning is essential to keep the surface smooth and prevent rust. While this might sound like a lot of work, it’s actually quite simple once you get the hang of it. Plus, with proper maintenance, your cast iron cookware will stay in great shape for years.
- Price Range and Budget Considerations
- Cast iron cookware comes in a range of prices. While some high-end brands can be pricey, there are also affordable options that perform very well. It’s important to find a balance between cost and quality to get the best value for your money.
Top 10 Best Cast Iron Cookware In India
Lodge Cast Iron Skillet
- Features: Pre-seasoned, 10.25 inches, sturdy handle.
- Pros:
- Durable: This skillet is built to last for many years.
- Heats evenly: Ensures your food cooks perfectly every time.
- Easy to clean: Simple to wipe clean after use.
- Cons:
- Heavy: Can be a bit tough to handle, especially for kids.
- Requires regular seasoning: Needs maintenance to keep it non-stick.
- Price Range: ₹2,500 – ₹3,500
- Where to Buy: Amazon, Flipkart
Wonderchef Cast Iron Kadai
- Features: 2-liter capacity, comes with a lid.
- Pros:
- Great for deep frying: Perfect for making Indian snacks.
- Even heat distribution: Cooks food evenly, enhancing flavor.
- Cons:
- Takes time to heat up: Requires patience for preheating.
- Heavy: Not easily portable.
- Price Range: ₹1,500 – ₹2,000
- Where to Buy: Amazon
Prestige Cast Iron Grill Pan
- Features: 24 cm, ridged surface, wooden handle.
- Pros:
- Ideal for grilling: Perfect for grilling vegetables and meats.
- Sturdy: Built to withstand high temperatures.
- Cons:
- Requires seasoning: Needs regular maintenance.
- Not non-stick: Food may stick if not properly seasoned.
- Price Range: ₹1,200 – ₹1,800
- Where to Buy: Flipkart
Rock Tawa Cast Iron Dosa Tawa
- Features: 12 inches, flat surface.
- Pros:
- Perfect for making dosas: Ensures crispy and evenly cooked dosas.
- Retains heat well: Stays hot for a long time.
- Cons:
- Needs seasoning: Requires regular oiling.
- Heavy: Can be challenging to handle.
- Price Range: ₹1,000 – ₹1,500
- Where to Buy: Amazon, Flipkart
AmazonBasics Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Pan
- Features: 12 inches, dual handles.
- Pros:
- Pre-seasoned: Ready to use out of the box.
- Versatile: Can be used for frying, baking, and more.
- Cons:
- Can rust if not cared for: Needs proper drying after washing.
- Heavy: Difficult for some to lift.
- Price Range: ₹1,800 – ₹2,500
- Where to Buy: Amazon
The Indus Valley Cast Iron Dutch Oven
- Features: 4-liter capacity, comes with a lid.
- Pros:
- Great for slow-cooking: Perfect for making stews and biryanis.
- Retains heat: Keeps food warm for a long time.
- Cons:
- Heavy: Can be tough to move around.
- Expensive: Costs more than regular cookware.
- Price Range: ₹3,500 – ₹4,500
- Where to Buy: Amazon
Wonderchef Cast Iron Fry Pan
- Features: 26 cm, wooden handle.
- Pros:
- Durable: Made to last for years.
- Heats evenly: Ensures consistent cooking results.
- Cons:
- Needs seasoning: Requires regular maintenance.
- Heavy: Not easy to lift for everyone.
- Price Range: ₹1,500 – ₹2,200
- Where to Buy: Flipkart
Bergner Elements Cast Iron Casserole
- Features: 3.5 liters, enamel coating.
- Pros:
- No seasoning needed: Easy to maintain.
- Easy to clean: Enamel surface is simple to wipe clean.
- Cons:
- Expensive: Higher price point.
- Can chip if dropped: Requires careful handling.
- Price Range: ₹4,000 – ₹5,500
- Where to Buy: Amazon, Flipkart
Tazbi Cast Iron Roti Tawa
- Features: 10 inches, flat surface.
- Pros:
- Ideal for rotis: Perfect for making soft, evenly cooked rotis.
- Even heating: Ensures consistent cooking.
- Cons:
- Needs seasoning: Regular oiling required.
- Heavy: Can be difficult to handle.
- Price Range: ₹900 – ₹1,300
- Where to Buy: Amazon
Dynamic Cookware Cast Iron Biryani Pot
- Features: 5 liters, comes with a lid.
- Pros:
- Perfect for biryani: Retains flavors and cooks rice evenly.
- Retains heat: Keeps food warm for longer periods.
- Cons:
- Heavy: Not easy to move.
- Requires care: Needs regular seasoning and careful handling.
- Price Range: ₹3,000 – ₹4,000
- Where to Buy: Flipkart
How To Season And Maintain Cast Iron Cookware?
Seasoning and maintaining your best cast iron cookware is crucial to ensure it remains non-stick and in top condition for years to come. Here’s a simple guide to help you keep your cast iron cookware in great shape:
Step-by-Step Guide on Seasoning Cast Iron Cookware:
- Clean Thoroughly: Wash your new cast iron cookware with hot water and mild soap to remove any protective coating or residues.
- Dry Completely: Dry the cookware thoroughly using a towel or by heating it on the stove until all moisture evaporates.
- Apply Oil: Apply a thin layer of vegetable oil, canola oil, or any oil with a high smoke point to the entire surface of the cookware, inside and out.
- Heat the Cookware: Place the cookware upside down in an oven preheated to 350°F (180°C) for one hour. This process allows the oil to polymerize, creating a natural non-stick coating.
- Cool and Store: Turn off the oven and let the cookware cool completely before storing it in a dry place.
Tips for Maintaining and Cleaning Cast Iron Cookware:
- Avoid Soap: After seasoning, avoid using soap on your cast iron cookware. Instead, rinse it with hot water and scrub gently using a non-abrasive brush or sponge.
- Dry Immediately: Always dry your cast iron cookware immediately after washing to prevent rusting.
- Re-season Regularly: If you notice food sticking or the seasoning wearing off, it’s time to re-season your cookware. Repeat the oiling and heating process to restore its non-stick properties.
- Store Properly: Store your cast iron cookware in a dry place with a paper towel or cloth inside to absorb any moisture and prevent rust.
Properly seasoned and maintained cast iron cookware not only enhances the flavor of your dishes but also ensures longevity and durability. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy cooking with your best cast iron cookware for years to come.
Waht Are Benefits Of Using Cast Iron Cookware?
Using the best cast iron cookware offers numerous benefits, making it a favorite in kitchens around the world. Here’s why you should consider incorporating cast iron into your cooking routine:
Health Benefits:
- Iron Content: Cooking with cast iron can increase the iron content in your food, especially beneficial for those with iron deficiency.
- Non-Toxic: Unlike some non-stick coatings, cast iron cookware is generally free from harmful chemicals that can leach into your food.
Cooking Benefits:
- Even Heating: Cast iron distributes heat evenly across the cooking surface, ensuring consistent cooking results without hot spots.
- Versatile Usage: From frying and searing to baking and roasting, the best cast iron cookware can handle a wide range of cooking methods, making it a versatile addition to any kitchen.
Conclusion
Choosing the best cast iron cookware is essential for enhancing your cooking experience and ensuring delicious meals every time. By using cast iron, you not only enjoy better cooking results but also potentially increase the iron content in your food, promoting better health.
Investing in the best cast iron cookware is more than just a choice—it’s a step towards improving your culinary skills and enjoying meals that are cooked evenly and thoroughly. Whether you’re frying, baking, or simmering, quality cast iron pieces can make a significant difference in your kitchen. Embrace the tradition and reliability of cast iron cookware for a better cooking experience and tastier meals.