Clay Cookware are used

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Clay cookware, also known as earthenware or terracotta cookware, has been used in India for centuries. It offers a unique and traditional way of cooking that imparts distinct flavors to dishes. Here are some examples of clay cookware used in India:

  1. Mitti Handi or Clay Pot: Mitti handi is a traditional clay pot used for slow cooking curries, dals, and stews. These pots are unglazed and porous, allowing slow evaporation and retention of moisture, which helps to infuse flavors into the dishes. The slow cooking in mitti handis is believed to be healthier as it requires less oil and preserves the nutrients in the food.
  2. Tandoor: The tandoor is a cylindrical clay oven used for baking various types of Indian bread, such as naan, tandoori roti, and tandoori meats like chicken and lamb. The high heat inside the tandoor gives the bread and meats a smoky, charred flavor.
  3. Clay Tawas: Clay tawas are flat griddles used to make items like rotis, chapatis, and parathas. They are especially popular in some rural and traditional Indian kitchens.
  4. Clay Biryani Handi: These specialized clay pots are used for cooking biryani. They have a wide, flat base and a narrow neck, which allows for even heat distribution and the slow cooking needed for biryani.
  5. Paniyaram Pan: Paniyaram is a South Indian snack made from fermented rice and lentil batter. It’s cooked in a specialized clay pan called a paniyaram pan. The cavities in the pan create perfectly round and crispy paniyarams.
  6. Clay Chulha or Stove: In some rural and traditional households, clay stoves or chulhas are used for cooking. They are typically low-tech and burn wood or other biofuels for cooking. They are still widely used in many parts of rural India.

Clay cookware is prized for its ability to retain heat, provide unique flavors, and add an earthy quality to the food. However, it’s important to note that clay utensils require special care. They need to be seasoned, soaked in water before use, and carefully cleaned to prevent cracking or breaking. Moreover, they should not be subjected to drastic temperature changes to avoid thermal shock.

In recent times, there has been a resurgence of interest in using clay cookware due to the focus on traditional and healthier cooking methods. Many people appreciate the natural, eco-friendly aspect of cooking with clay as well.