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The trend and demand for the Best Cast Iron Cookware in India in 2023 has increased exponentially, especially in the last 10 years or so, similar to the hard anodized cookware sets.
There was a time when people were only interested in the Best Non Stick Cookware Set in India or the Best Stainless Steel Cookware Sets in India.
If you are also one of those who is worried about the durability of their nonstick cookware set, Cast Iron is the material you should pick for your cookware.
To explain in very simple and easy words, Cast Iron is a heavy duty cookware which becomes naturally nonstick, just like Dutch Ovens.
Cooking in cast iron utelsils is considered healthy, and you can cook the food with less oil. The most impressive part about the Cast Iron utensils is its durability.
If you can maintain your cookware well, the chances are you can pass it to the next generation.
Before you decide to buy the Best Cast Iron Cookware Set for Kitchen in India in 2023, do check these things –
- Size of the kadai, pan or tawa
- Thickness
- Type of Cast iron
- Seasoned or not
- Warranty
- Compatibility with Induction and gas stoves
In today’s post, we will be reviewing some of the Best Cast Iron Cookware Brands in India such as Bhagya, Rock, Lodge, Indus Valley, Meyer, Vinod, etc.
You can also check out other related post on 10 Best Frying Pan in India in 2023, 7 Best Stainless Steel Kadai in India in 2023 and 8 Best Idli Maker in India in 2023.
Top Brands
- Bhagya Cookware
- Rock Dosa Tawa
- Lodge
- The Indus Valley
- Meyer
- Vinod
- Healthy Choices
- Amazon Solimo
To know more about these brands, different types of cast iron material, how to season the cast iron cookware and how to choose the best cast iron cookware for your kitchen, you can check our “Buying Guide”.
Comparison
Best Cast Iron | Diameter | Weight | Warranty | Check |
10.2 inches | 2.27 kgs | Nil | ||
12 inches | 2.70 kgs | 1 year | ||
12 inches | 2.30 kgs | 1 year | ||
11 inches | 2.70 kgs | Lifetime | ||
12 inches | 3 kgs | Nil | ||
10 inches | 3.97 kgs | Nil | ||
10.5 inches | 2.31 kgs | 3 years | ||
10.2 inches | 3 kgs | Lifetime |
Editor’s Pick
Reviews
1. Lodge Logic Skillet Reviews
1st product in our today’s review is from one of the American brands, Lodge.
The brand Lodge has been making the world’s best cast iron since 1896, and each piece of Lodge cookware is crafted for durability as well as versatility.
This skillet from Lodge also happens to be one of the bestselling cast iron skillets on E-commerce websites around the globe.
This is a 10.25 inches cast iron skillet from Lodge which comes pre-seasoned and has an excellent nonstick coating. The weight of this skillet is 2.27 kgs which is perfect, not too heavy and not too light.
The depth of the skillet is around 2 inches or 5 cms. You can use this skillet on the gas, electric or induction stovetops.
This skillet is a perfect choice if you are looking for the right cookware for searing, sauteing, simmering, braising, baking, roasting, and frying.
The handle is attached to the skillet, which is good and makes the skillet even more durable.
If you end up buying this cast iron skillet and use it at the right temperature, you will realise that the food never sticks to the bottom of the cookware.
We also noticed that this skillet heats up pretty quickly and evenly, and most of the cooking can be done on low flame, which saves gas as well.
The browning of the eggs we cooked in this skillet was just marvellous.
If you compare this cast iron skillet to the Indian brands, the price is almost 3 times, but there is absolutely no question or doubt about the durability and performance of this skillet from Lodge.
To sum it up, with exceptional durability and the material strength, the Lodge Logic Skillet is the Best Cast Iron Cookware in India.
Other Bestselling Cast Iron Cookware from Lodge – Lodge Cast iron pan, Lodge Cast iron wok, Lodge Cast iron deep skillet
Lodge Cast Iron Cookware Ratings – 4.9/5
Product Specifications:
Diameter – 26 cm
Nonstick – Yes
Induction safe – Yes
Warranty – Nil
Weight – 2.27 kgs
Dimensions – 40.94 x 27.13 x 5.08 cm
Pros of Lodge Logic Skillet:
Made in the USA
The skillet can be used right out of the box as it is pre-seasoned already
Brutally tough for decades of cooking
Perfect depth for roasting or baking
Compatible with induction cooktop
Heats up quickly
Retains heat very well
Completely nonstick
Cons of Lodge Logic Skillet:
A bit expensive, but worth every rupee sent
2. Rock Tawa Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet Reviews
Rock Cast iron skillet is one of the bestselling Indian brands in the cast iron cookware industry. This is a 12-inch pre-seasoned cast iron skillet with a weight of 2.70 kgs.
This is a very affordable cast iron skillet and is an ideal choice, if you are looking for the Best option in India under 1000 rupees in 2023.
You can use this skillet on gas, electric or induction stovetops. The skillet can be used right out of the box as it is already pre-seasoned with sunflower oil.
The skillet has a thickness of 4.2 mm, and has an excellent and uniform heat distribution. One thing you should know about Indian cast iron cookware is that it gets better with the time.
Even though this skillet is pre-seasoned, you should still heat the skillet once you receive it, sprinkle some salt on it and saute until golden brown colour appears. Now, switch it off and once it cools down, clean it with a cloth and apply a light coating of oil and store it.
By doing this, you will be increasing both the durability and performance of the cast iron skillet.
We also felt that the seller could have added a wooden handle, as sometimes the skillet can get quite hot to touch with the bare hands.
With a 1 year warranty and an affordable price, this skillet from Rock is certainly the Best Cast Iron Skillet in India under 1,000 rupees in 2023.
Other Bestselling Cast Iron Cookware from Rock Tawa – Rock Cast iron dutch oven, Rock Cast iron kadai, Rock Cast iron tawa
Rock Tawa Cast Iron Cookware Ratings – 5/5
Product Specifications:
Diameter – 30.5 cm
Thickness – 4.2 mm
Induction safe – Yes
Warranty – 1 year
Weight – 2.7 kgs
Dimensions – 37.9 x 32.41 x 3.71 cm
Pros of Rock Tawa Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet:
Made in India
Affordable and pocket friendly
Thick and heavy metal skillet
Pre-seasoned cookware
Compatible with induction cooktop
Heats up quickly
1 year warranty from the brand
Cons of Rock Tawa Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet:
Seasoning will still be required
3. Bhagya
Bhagya is one of the Best known Brands in India, and all of their products are pre-seasoned and tested before being released into the market.
Bhagya is an Indian brand based out of Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India, this location is famous for its Cast iron cookware all over the world.
Majority of their cookware products are already nonstick in nature. So, you will have to put in very little effort into re-seasoning, and the pans can be maintained non-stick, lifelong.
The cast iron tawa from Bhagya cookware has a diameter of 12 inches, same as the Rock cast iron skillet. However, the thickness of this tawa is slightly more, a 4.5 mm.
The flat bottom tawa weighs 2.3 kgs and can be used on Induction cooktops. No chemicals have been used to pre-season this tawa, in fact the brand has used Organic Gingelly oil for seasoning.
At the first look, the seasoning of this tawa looks unique and different. You will also receive an instruction manual and a YouTube video URL on how to season this tawa before first use.
The dosas on this tawa comes off as good as nonstick, and it does retain the heat very well.
The price of this tawa from Bhagya cookware is not as affordable as the Rock cast iron skillet, but with a 1 year warranty, this is still one of the Best Cast Iron Tawa in India in 2023.
Other Bestselling Cast Iron Cookware from Bhagya – Bhagya Cast Iron Cookware Omelette Pan, 9 Inches
Bhagya Cast Iron Cookware Ratings – 4.9/5
Product Specifications:
Diameter – 30.5 cm
Thickness – 4.5 mm
Induction safe – Yes
Warranty – 1 year
Weight – 2.3 kgs
Dimensions – 30.5 x 30.5 x 1 cm
Pros:
Made in India
Heavy and large in size, perfect for big dosas
As good as nonstick
Ideal for making crispy dosas, omelette, uthappam
Pre-seasoned cookware with Organic gingelly oil
Compatible with induction cooktop
Heats up quickly, retains heat well
1 year warranty from the brand
Cons:
A bit expensive for an Indian brand
4. Meyer Induction Base Cast Iron Tawa Reviews
Meyer, a Hongkong based brand, is known to be the Global Leader in the Cookware industry since 1951.
We have reviewed a lot of products especially, Stainless steel cookware from Meyer and their performance has been top notch.
The diameter of the cast iron tawa from Meyer is 28 cms with a base thickness of 4.5 mm. The tawa is 100% non-toxic, without the use of any enamel or chemical on the inner or outer surface.
The tawa is pre-seasoned with 100% vegetable oil. The Meyer tawa comes in a one-piece design as it does not have any joints or screws, the handle is part of the body.
What we liked about this tawa is that the handle comes with a canvas grip for easy handling. The handle is fairly ergonomic, and has a very secure grip.
You can use the tawa on all kinds of cooktops including the Induction ones.
The tawa material is very sturdy, unbreakable and almost indestructible. The flat surface of the tawa helps to allow even distribution of batter and prepares uniformly proportioned dishes.
After buying, if you can season this tawa well, it will give a nonstick feeling, but without the fear of unhealthy nonstick coatings.
The size of 26 cm diameter is absolutely ideal for chapati, roti and paratha size and also the home cooked dosas.
If you compare the price of any Meyer product to an Indian brand, the price will always be on the higher side for Meyer products. However, Meyer offers a lifetime warranty on this cast iron tawa, which makes it one of the Best options for you.
Other Bestselling Cast Iron Cookware from Meyer – Meyer Pre Seasoned Cast Iron 30cm Kadai, Meyer Cast Iron Frying Pan,Meyer Cast Iron Grill Pan
Meyer Cast Iron Cookware Ratings – 5/5
Product Specifications:
Diameter – 28 cm
Thickness – 4.5 mm
Induction safe – Yes
Warranty – Lifetime
Weight – 2.7 kgs
Dimensions – 49 x 29 x 5 cm
Pros of Meyer Induction Base Cast Iron Tawa:
Heavy gauge construction for extra thickness and durability
Ergonomic handle with no screws or joints
Heat resistant grip on the handle
A complimentary brown handle cover with the tawa
Superior quality
Lifetime warranty on this Cast iron tawa
Ideal to cook crunchy and crispy dosas, pancakes, chilla, parantha, etc.
Pre-seasoned
Compatible with induction cooktop
Cons of Meyer Induction Base Cast Iron Tawa:
A bit expensive, but lifetime warranty and the quality of this cookware is worth the price paid
5. Amazon Solimo Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Dosa Tawa Reviews
Solimo is Amazon’s own inhouse brand in India that sells almost everything at an affordable price.
This is a heavy duty cast iron tawa from Amazon with a diameter of around 30.5 cms or 12 inches. The tawa is excellent for heat retention and uniform heating.
You can use the tawa on all kind of cooktops such as electric, induction or gas. The weight of this tawa is a bit on the higher side with 3 kgs, however you will get used to it.
The tawa does not have a handle attached, so you will have to use a cotton cloth or an oven mitt to touch the cookware while it is hot.
If you decide to get this cast iron tawa from Amazon, make sure to use medium heat for cooking, and apply a small amount of vegetable oil to the tawa’s surface before each use.
This is required for further seasoning, and to get the best results out of your cast iron cookware. Also, you can use a half onion to wipe the hot tawa while making dosa for the first time.
Even though there is no warranty on this cast iron tawa, but the price is affordable for this quality.
Other Bestselling Cookware from Amazon Solimo – Amazon Cast Iron kadai, Amazon Cast Iron Grill pan, Amazon Cast Iron Skillet
Amazon Solimo Cookware Ratings – 4.8/5
Product Specifications:
Diameter – 30.5 cm
Thickness – 4.5 mm
Induction safe – Yes
Warranty – Nil
Weight – 3 kgs
Dimensions – 36 x 30 x 1 cm
Pros of Amazon Solimo Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Dosa Tawa:
Affordable and well priced
Perfect for day to day Indian cooking
Heavy duty
Pre-seasoned
Compatible with induction cooktop
Cons of Amazon Solimo Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Dosa Tawa:
No warranty on this cast iron tawa
No handle
6. The Indus Valley Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron 10 Inch Kadai Reviews
When it comes to the Best Brands in India, the Indus Valley is one of them. This brand has been known for its quality and affordable cookware.
This is a heavy duty cast iron kadai from the Indus Valley. The capacity of this kadai is 2.5 litres and it can easily serve 3-4 people.
The diameter of this cast iron kadai is 26 cms with a depth of 6 cms. This kadai is 100% natural and chemical free.
The good thing is that all the Indus Valley cast iron products are completely hand seasoned, but you should still season your kadai a few times before cooking for the best experience.
In order to season this cast iron kadai, clean it completely using mild dishwashing liquid and water. After cleaning, wipe it using a soft cloth and let it dry for a while. Then, apply cooking oil all over it.
Heat the kadai under medium flame for 20 mins. After 20 mins, switch it off and let it cool down completely.
If you repeat this process for 3-4 times, the kadai will eventually become nonstick with a beautiful shine.
You should know that this cast iron kadai is not compatible with Induction cooktop and there is no warranty from Indus Valley on the kadai.
However, if you do not have an Induction cooktop, you can consider buying this cookware as it is one of the Best Cast Iron Kadai in India in 2023.
Other Bestselling Cookware from The Indus Valley – Indus Valley Cookware Combo Set – Kadai [2.5L] + Skillet Fry Pan [1.5L] + Cast Iron Dosa Tawa [10Inch]
The Indus Valley Cast Iron Cookware Ratings – 4.8/5
Product Specifications:
Diameter – 26 cm
Capacity – 2.5 litres
Depth – 2.3 inches
Induction safe – No
Warranty – Nil
Weight – 3.97 kgs
Dimensions – 29 x 26 x 10.6 cm
Pros of The Indus Valley Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron 10 Inch Kadai:
Affordable
Ideal for Indian cooking
Perfect for 3-4 people
Pre-seasoned
Heats evenly and retains the heat well
Cons of The Indus Valley Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron 10 Inch Kadai:
No warranty on this cast iron kadai
Not for Induction cooktop
7. Healthy Choices Cast Iron Skillet Reviews
This product from Healthy Choices is one of the most versatile and cost effective cast iron skillet that you will find from an Indian brand.
TheHealthy Choices Cast iron skillet frying pan has a diameter of 10.5 inches or 27 cms. The depth of the pan is 3 inches, whereas its thickness is 3 mm.
You can use this skillet on Induction, gas or electric cooktop. In fact, this skillet is one of the very few cast iron product that is safe to be used on an Oven as well.
The cast iron skillet is already seasoned with oil for a natural, and an easy-release finish. The weight of the pan is 2.3 kgs, which is perfect for everyday cooking.
The skillet comes fitted with a convenient wooden handle, which has been specially designed and engineered for a skillet of this size and weight.
The size of this pan is just good enough to make an omelette of 2 eggs. The edges are tall enough to cook chicken or some fish for 2-3 people.
The good thing is that the handle of this skillet is removable, so if you want to make a pizza, you can take it out of the oven using the wooden handle.
The best thing about this skillet is that the brand Healthy Choices is offering a 3 years warranty, which is really awesome for this price.
If you do not mind paying a bit extra for your cookware, especially for an Indian brand, then this product fromHealthy Choices is the Best Cast Iron Pan in India in 2023.
Other Bestselling Cast Iron Cookware from Healthy Choices – Healthy Choices Enameled Cast Iron Saute Grill Pan 24cm
Healthy Choices Cast Iron Cookware Ratings – 5/5
Product Specifications:
Diameter – 27 cm
Depth – 3 inches
Thickness – 3 mm
Induction safe – Yes
Warranty – 3 years
Weight – 2.31 kgs
Dimensions – 44 x 27 x 7.5 cm
Pros of Healthy Choices Cast Iron Skillet:
Very sturdy cast iron skillet
Compatible with gas stove, electric, induction, oven, ceramic or over an open fire
Wooden handle for ease of access
Removable wooden handle
Purest grade cast iron material
Perfectly balanced weight
Manufactured for Indian cooking
Pre-seasoned
Made in India
3 years of warranty
Cons of Healthy Choices Cast Iron Skillet:
None
8. Vinod Legacy Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Kadai Reviews
The last product in our today’s review is from the Best Cast Iron Brand in India, Vinod.
Vinod is a very famous brand in India which mainly deals in Stainless steel cookware.
This cast iron kadai from Vinod has a capacity of 4.3 litres, which is ideal if you have a large family of 7-8 people.
The diameter of this kadai is 26 cms with an impressive thickness of 6 mm. The kadai can be comfortably used on Induction as well as gas stoves.
The kadai comes with a nonstick coating, and is ideal for sauteing, frying, searing, roasting, etc. The best thing about this cast iron kadai is that it comes with a snug fit glass lid.
We noticed that the heat is distributed evenly across the bottom of the pan and maintained throughout the cooking process, which will give you the special browning in the dishes.
To ensure a comfortable cooking process, the kadai has a heat resistant canvas grip and a longer handle.
The price of this pre-seasoned cast iron kadai from Vinod Legacy is a bit expensive, but if you think about the lifetime warranty that this brand is offering, you will not mind paying a bit extra.
Overall, we found this cast iron kadai from Vinod to be the Best Cast Iron Kadai in India in 2023.
Other Bestselling Cookware from Vinod – Vinod Legacy Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Combo of Frypan 24 cm & Kadai 24 cm
Vinod Legacy Cookware Ratings – 5/5
Product Specifications:
Diameter – 26 cm
Capacity – 4.3 litres
Thickness – 6 mm
Induction safe – Yes
Warranty – Lifetime
Weight – 3 kgs
Dimensions – 34 x 26.5 x 10.5 cm
Pros of Vinod Legacy Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Kadai:
Comes with a snug fit glass lid
Lifetime warranty
Ideal for a family of 7-8 people
Canvas comfortable grip
Extra durable and sturdy cast iron kadai
Compatible with gas stove, electric, induction cooktop
Pre-seasoned
Made in India
Cons of Vinod Legacy Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Kadai:
A bit expensive
Which is the Best Choice in India in 2023
If you have a budget constraint in mind while looking for the Best Cast Iron Cookware in India in 2023, you should go for Indian brands as International brands such as Meyer, Lodge are expensive.
Keeping the budget factor in mind, you can pick anyone amongst Healthy Choices Cast Iron Skillet Frying Pan, Rock Dosa Tawa 12 Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet.
If there is no budget factor in your mind, and you are looking for the Best Cast Iron Cookware in India in 2023, you can make a choice between Meyer Induction Base Cast Iron Tawa or Lodge Logic Skillet.
Best Cast Iron Kadai in India – Vinod Legacy Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Kadai
Best Cast Iron Pan in India – Lodge Induction Base Cast Iron Pan
Best Cast Iron Tawa in India – Bhagya Cast Iron Cookware
Buying Guide
There are often so many doubts about the usability and durability of the cast iron cookware. If you go as per the books, there are certain things you should avoid if you have a cast iron cookware in your kitchen. Similarly, you should be careful when it comes to the cleaning of cast iron utensils. In this buying guide, we intend to cover everything you need to know about the cast iron cookware.
Types
Cast Iron cookware has always been used very widely in the Indian kitchens, even before the advent of technology based kitchen tools. However, with the invention of nonstick cookware, cast iron cookware took a back seat until recently. In the past 10-15 years, cast iron cookware has again picked up popularity, not just in India, but all over the world due to its extreme durability.
In India, the main types of cast iron cookware is divided into 2 categories – Uncoated and Enameled, let’s see which one is best for your kitchen along with the main differences.
You can also check our post on Pros and Cons of Enameled Cast Iron Cookware (Cast Iron vs Enameled Cast Iron) to know more about this.
1. Uncoated Cast Iron
Uncoated cast iron is also known as bare cast iron. In very simple words, this type of cookware does not have any prior coating and is usually pre-seasoned. Uncoated cast iron cookware is incredibly strong and is virtually indestructible. If you can manage to take care of uncoated cast iron cookware, it may even last for a century.
Most of these cookwares are already pre-seasoned, however this does not mean you should not season them again. As a matter of fact, regular seasoning is recommended to prevent any kind of rusting and also to get the best results. In comparison to the enameled cast iron cookware, non enameled or uncoated are usually more affordable and comes in a lot of different sizes.
With regular seasoning from time to time, you can get a nonstick finish on the uncoated cast iron cookware. This type of cast iron material works great at low, medium, and higher temperatures.
Which is the best Uncoated Cast Iron Cookware in India – Meyer Induction Base Cast Iron Tawa or Lodge Logic Skillet
2. Enameled Cast Iron
One of the main drawbacks of using an uncoated cast iron cookware is the rusting, which can happen if you are not able to maintain the cookware well. To overcome this problem, manufacturers started coating a layer of Enamel or Ceramic on uncoated cast iron to prevent rusting.
In comparison to the uncoated cast iron cookware, the enameled ones look far better as they add more colours and grace to the kitchen. The extra coating, need for less maintenance and the looks makes this type of cookware more expensive as well.
One of the biggest advantages of having anenameled cast iron cookware is that it does not require any seasoning. So, it may be an ideal choice for your kitchen, if you do not want to season the cookware again and again. Also, you can easily cook acidic foods in theenameled cast iron cookware.
Which is the best Enameled Cast Iron Cookware in India – Lodge Enamelled Cast-iron Dutch Oven with a capacity of 5.6 litres
The Final Verdict – Which is Better – Uncoated vs Enameled Cast Iron
Both uncoated and enameled cast iron cookware have their own benefits and drawbacks. For a beginner, enameled cast iron would be the better choice as it does not require regular seasoning whereas, for professional and experienced chefs, they usually go for both the types to meet different needs.
If you do not cook a lot of acidic foods in your kitchen, you can go with uncoated cast iron, but in the case of opposite, you should go for enameled cast iron cookware.
Cast Iron Vs Nonstick – 7 Differences
Nonstick cookware has a fan following of its own, but cast iron material is not behind by any means. In a nonstick pan, the nonstick coating is added artificially, and it cannot be called natural. However, cast iron cookware is naturally nonstick with the help of regular seasoning. This is why, cast iron cookware is also known as original nonstick cookware.
1. In terms of durability, cast iron cookware is like a wine which ages very well and becomes better day by day. Nonstick cookware requires more maintenance, and it may demand an immediate replacement if you start seeing any pores or holes.
2. In terms of construction, cast iron is more natural and organic, whereas nonstick cookware is artificially born.
3. In terms of heat, cast iron cookware can be used on low, medium or even high temperature. However, this may not be applicable to the nonstick cookware, as they are only compatible with low or medium gas flame. At very high temperatures, the chemicals used in the nonstick coating can begin to degrade and be released into the cookware itself.
4. In terms of retaining heat, cast iron cookware can retain heat better than any other cookware. Even if you turn off the gas, the cast iron cookware will take some time to cool off.
5. In terms of food browning, nonstick cookware have limited capabilities because they cannot be used on a high gas flame. That’s why cast iron cookware is more ideal if you want browning of the dishes while cooking.
6. In terms of acidic foods, nonstick cookware is a better choice unless you are only going to cook for a limited time in the cast iron cookware or the cookware has been seasoned very well.
7. In terms of food sticking, nonstick again is a better choice as that is the purpose of this type of cookware to prevent the food from sticking to the surface. The same can be achieved with proper seasoning in case of cast iron cookware.
How to Choose the Best One in India
1. Type of Cast Iron – The first thing you should decide is the type of cast iron cookware you want to buy for your kitchen. There are mainly 2 types of cast iron materials, one is uncoated, and the other is enameled. Both these materials have advantages and disadvantages.
If it helps you to make a buying decision, Enameled ones do not require very frequent seasoning, whereas you will need to season the uncoated cast iron cookware from time to time.
If you have a thing for acidic foods, you will need to make sure the uncoated pan is regularly seasoned for the best results. You should also know that uncoated cast iron lives longer than the enameled version, as their coating can come off after frequent usage. The moment this happens, you will need to replace theenameled cast iron cookware.
2. Size or Capacity – The size or capacity of the cookware directly depends on your family size. If you have a large family of more than 4 members, you should go for a 10 or 12 inch skillet. For smaller families or bachelors, even an 8 or 10 inch cast iron skillet will work fine.
You should also know that cast iron material is not like other material, and is usually very heavy. This means, if you go for a large size pan or a skillet, the weight will also increase. So, do not get something that will give you trouble while cooking. Most of the times, cooks do get used to the heavy cast iron cookware with the time.
3. Weight – The heavy cast iron cookware is usually known to retain and spread the heat very well. While buying the cast iron cookware, do check the weight, and if you will be comfortable with that.
Getting a heavy cookware for your old parents in the kitchen may not be a very good idea. You should also note that once the food is added to the cast iron pan or kadai, the cookware will become even more heavier.
Additionally, if the cast iron cookware is too light it would be easy to handle, but then its heat retention would also be very less, and food would get burnt soon. At the same time, if it is too heavy, it would become difficult to handle, and take longer to get heated initially.
4. Depth and Thickness – Depending on the type of cast iron cookware you are going to buy, it is very important to check the depth and thickness of the utensil as it will directly impact the cooking performance. While checking these factors, do keep in mind the thicker pans will also be the heavier ones and thus, a right balance is necessary between all of these checkpoints.
5. Handle – Cast iron cookware can get extremely hot while cooking, and thus it is very important to have a comfortable as well as ergonomic handle which can help you to hold the pan or kadai, once the cooking is done or is midway.
The good thing is that a lot of manufacturers have started adding wooden handles to the cast iron cookware, which makes the handling process very easy. If there is no wooden handle, a silicone or a leather handle will be equally comforting. In case there are no handles, you can use Oven mitts.
6. Induction – Induction cooktops are now very common in the Indian kitchens, especially if you are a bachelor or live in a service family. If you also have an induction cooktop in your kitchen, you will need to make sure the cast iron cookware is compatible with the Induction cooktop.
7. Lid – If you are going to buy a cast iron kadai or a cast iron frying pan, do check if your cookware comes with the lid or without the lid. Having a lid is certainly a utility and will become handy if you want the food to be well steamed and cooked.
8. Price – The price of a cast iron cookware in India varies and depends on the material and the brand. You can expect the price to start from 700 rupees, and it can go up to 10,000 as well.
On an average, for Indian brands such as Rock, Bhagya, Indus Valley, etc. the price will be around 1,000 rupees and for International brands like Meyer, Lodge the price will be around 2,500 rupees. Having said this, you can still get the Best Cast Iron Cookware in India under 1,500 rupees.
9. Warranty – Warranty is one of the most underrated factors people often do not look at, just because it is not an AC or a Washing machine. A warranty defines the company’s trust in their products and hence, you should always look at the warranty of the cast iron cookware before deciding to buy one.
Brands like Meyer and Vinod Legacy offers a lifetime warranty on their cast iron cookware products, while some Indian brands such as Indus Valley does not offer any warranty.
Advantages
1. Nonstick Surface – The so-called nonstick pans have a nonstick surface, thanks to the use of chemicals. With cast iron, there is no such risk, as this material gets a nonstick surface naturally over a period of time. The best part is, no chemicals have to be used in the cast iron cookware to get a natural nonstick surface, and you can still cook with little or no oil.
2. Remains Hot – One thing you will notice about cast iron cookware is that it remains hot for a longer period as compared to any other pot or pan of the same size. The excellent heat retention capability of the cast iron cookware can help you to save some gas, and moreover, you can serve the hot dish in the cast iron skillet as well. Having said this, cast iron pans do emit smoke, here is how you can reduce smoke from cast iron pans.
3. Adds Iron – Iron-deficiency anemia is the most common and widespread nutritional disorder in the world, and in India it affects more than 600 million people. Considering this fact, cast iron cookware is really beneficial as it has the tendency to leach iron contents into your food.
4. Long Life – Engine blocks are also made using cast iron material, which is one of the reasons, these machines literally last forever. Cast iron is known to have an amazing durability and do not be surprised, if the cast iron cookware in your kitchen lives longer than you do.
5. Oven Safe – These cookwares have one of the best advantages that it can take the hottest of the temperatures from an open gas flame to cooking in the oven or induction. With oven cooking, cast iron cookware can add more flavours to your food.
6. Visually Appealing – There is no doubt about the fact that cast iron cookwares are visually appealing to the eyes. If you have noticed the cast iron dosa tawas in the South Indian restaurants, they do look gigantic and smooth. Having one such piece of cookware will add a lot of flavour and elegance in your kitchen.
7. Only Gets Better – Cast iron cookwares are simply like an old wine that gets better with the time. As you use the cast iron cookware daily and season it from time to time, you will start noticing the unique flavour and richness in the food you have cooked.
8. Affordable – If you compare the life of a cast iron cookware with its price, you are literally getting it for free. A Cast iron cookware can easily last for 10 years and a decent one in India will cost you around 1,000 rupees. This means, you are paying 100 rupees per 1 year for the cast iron cookware. This is not even 1 rupee per day, if you do the math.
9. Cleaning – If you have maintained your cast iron cookware well, cleaning is going to be much easier as compared to any other kind of cookware.
Disadvantages
1. Injuries – Usually, most of the cast iron cookware comes in one-piece. This means, the handle is often attached to the body of the cookware. This can lead to burns as the handle will be extremely hot when you try to touch the cookware. As an alternative, you should look for cast iron cookware with wooden or heat resistant handle. You can also use Oven mitts to prevent any injuries.
2. Extremely Heavy – The weight of a regular frying pan in India is around 500 – 700 grams on an average. Now, when you compare this weight to a cast iron frying pan, there will be significant differences. The weight of a cast iron frying pan is at least 2 kgs, which means it’s almost 4 times as heavy as a regular frying pan. Moreover, when you add more veggies to the cast iron pan, the weight will further increase. Having said this, with time you can get used to the experience.
3. Prone to Rust – No matter how many are the advantages of cooking in cast iron cookware, you still cannot and should not boil water in the cast iron cookware. Boiling water can simply cause the metal to rust and even with less seasoning than required, the cast iron cookware can start to get rust.
4. Needs Maintenance – Unlike stainless steel and nonstick pans, cast iron cookware requires regular maintenance from time to time. If you do not season it, there are chances the cookware will catch rust.
5. Acidic Foods – If you are going to cook acidic foods in the cast iron cookware, you will have to be a bit careful. You should always ensure that you wash the cast iron pan immediately after cooking acidic food in it, otherwise it will catch rust due to the acidic contents.
How to Take Care
1. Seasoning the Cast Iron – Irrespective of the fact whether your cast iron cookware is pre-seasoned or not, some seasoning is still recommended after you have bought the cookware. This seasoning process is imperative to make your cast iron cookware nonstick. We will discuss “How to Season your Cast Iron Cookware” later in this post.
2. Storage – Storage of cast iron cookware is another essential factor you should pay attention to. Always make sure you dry out the cookware before storing it anywhere in your kitchen. Remember, a wet cast iron cookware is the best friend of rust. It is also recommended to place a paper tissue on the surface of cast iron cookware while stacking with other pans or pots, so it can absorb any moisture left.
3. Spatulas – As a general thumb rule, you should avoid using any metal spatulas in the cast iron cookware. For this type of cookware, you can use wooden, silicone or rubber spatulas. We have also written a guide on “The 9 Best Spatula for Nonstick Pans in India in 2023” that you can refer to.
4. Cleaning Tips – If your cast iron cookware is scorching hot, rushing it with cold water can cause the cookware to warp, and you should never do that. Always make sure to dry out the pan after cleaning and not leaving any water in it. Make sure not to use a dishwasher and abrasive detergents. Handwashing cast iron cookware is recommended than using a dishwasher.
5. Post Seasoning – Seasoning is going to be a continuous process with the Cast iron cookware. After every seasoning session, make sure to use ample amount of fat such as butter, coconut oil, ghee, olive oil, etc on the surface of cast iron cookware to make it nonstick.
6. Drying the Pan – Drying out the pan after washing is a very important step, but while you do this, you can also dry out the pan by keeping it upside down on a low gas flame. This will absorb all the moisture from the surface of the pan. Doing this will also save your kitchen towels from the brown stains.
7. Preheating – It is true that cast iron has excellent heat retention properties, but it is also true that it does not get hot very quickly. In fact, it takes a lot of time for the cast iron cookware to get hot. This is because, iron is a poor heat conductor. Preheating the cast iron cookware for a good 5-10 minutes on a low gas flame before you start the cooking will give you the best results.
What Not to do
1. Don’t Let it Soak – Water can lead to moisture, and moisture is an enemy of cast iron. If you leave the cast iron cookware overnight with water in it, there are chances it will get rusty very soon. As a ground rule, never let the cast iron soak in water to avoid rusting.
2. Avoid Dishwasher – Dishwashers operate on the basis of strong washing cycles. Using a dishwasher to wash the cast iron cookware may be quick, but it is not effective for sure. In fact, all the hard work you have put in to season your cast iron cookware will be lost in one single wash from a dishwasher.
3. Harsh Detergents – It is very much possible to get hard and stubborn stains on the cast iron cookware while you cook dishes in it. However, using a hard detergent or an abrasive spray is not the best idea to remove these stains. As a matter of fact, you can use salt to remove these stains or scrub under warm water, rinse and dry the skillet completely before storing.
4. Not Oiling it – Once you have washed the cast iron cookware, make it a habit to add one tablespoon vegetable oil over low heat. Grab some paper towels, use those towels to rub the oil into the surface of the cast iron cookware. This will create a shiny surface and strengthen the nonstick surface. Repeat this process every time after washing the iron cookware.
5. Don’t Skip the Preheating – Since iron is not a very good conductor of heat, it is always a good idea to do some preheating before you start cooking in the cast iron cookware. Not following this process may not give you the best results.
6. Too Much of Acidic Foods – It is a great myth that you cannot cook acidic foods such as tomatoes, lemon, etc in the cast iron cookware. The answer to this is “Yes and No” both. The fact is, in order to cook acidic foods in the iron cookware, the cookware should be seasoned. If you have a well seasoned cast iron cookware, you can cook acidic foods. However, you should not let the acidic foods stay in the cast iron cookware for more than 30 minutes.
7. Not Seasoning it – Seasoning is not a one day process where you do it once and never do it again. As a matter of fact, you will need to season the cast iron cookware every now and then to make sure the food does not stick to the surface. In fact, regular seasoning enhances the life of cast iron cookware and makes your food taste better.
8. Storing Leftovers – The cast iron cookware is not meant to store the leftover foods, but it is there to cook those leftovers. If you need to store the leftovers, better use kitchen storage containers. The moisture from the leftover food can tarnish the coating of your iron cookware.
9. Trashing it – If you have ever used a cast iron cookware, the chances are you have already seen rust forming on it. The truth is rust can form even on the best cast iron cookware, however, this does not mean it is the end of life for the cast iron cookware. In fact, take all steps necessary to remove rust from the iron cookware and continue seasoning it regularly.
5 Common Myths
1. Difficult to maintain – One of the most common myths associated with the Cast iron cookware is that it is extremely difficult to maintain. Truth be told, any type of cookware will require regular maintenance and upkeep, and same goes for the cast iron cookware as well. In fact, in comparison to the other cookware types, cast iron is more durable and sturdy.
2. Cast Iron heats evenly – The truth is, cast iron cookware does not provide even and uniform heat right out of the box. This is why, you need regular seasoning and preheating for 5-10 minutes is always recommended for the best cooking experience.
3. Never cook acidic foods – The common perception about cast iron cookware is that you should never cook acidic foods in it. Contrary to this myth, the acidic food only comes in contact with the polymerized oil in the pan, and not the iron surface itself. Having said this, the following practice is totally safe for not so long cooking durations of the acidic foods.
4. Cast Iron is very expensive – A lot of people have googled this before, and this is not totally true. The price of a Cast iron cookware in India varies, and it depends on the material as well as the brand selling it. You can get a cast iron cookware in India for 800 rupees as well, and the price can also go up to 5,000 rupees.
5. Cast Iron is very hard to clean – Cleaning a cast iron cookware is no rocket science and can be done fairly easily as long as you know what you are doing. In most of the cases, you can use hot water with a cleaning brush and use some salt to remove stains. If this does not work, you can use steel wool and re-season it.
How to Season or Re-Season
Cast iron cookware, if maintained well, can literally be passed to the next generation of your family. In order to maintain the cast iron cookware, seasoning is one of the most important steps. The seasoning process is not as difficult as it sounds. With regular seasoning, your cast iron cookware can achieve a shiny and nonstick surface over a period of time.
There are many benefits once you start seasoning your cast iron cookware. One of the most important and significant benefit is that it will prevent rust. A well seasoned pan will make sure you have to use zero or very little oil while cooking your favourite dishes.
In order to season your cast iron cookware, all you need is a paper towel, vegetable oil and a sponge. In absence of the vegetable oil, you can also use some butter.
For a new cookware, one of the easiest ways to season a cast iron pan is to rub it with some oil. In terms of the choice of oil, you have a lot of options such as vegetable oil, canola oil, sunflower oil, flaxseed oil, etc. Once you have chosen the oil, pour some of it onto the surface of the cast iron cookware.
Now, rub the oil all over the pan and use a paper towel to remove any excess oil from the cookware. Once the pan is dry, place it upside down in the oven and heat at 250 degrees. If you do not have an oven, you can keep it on the gas stove and follow the same process.
The heat from the pan allows the oil to break down and bond with the pan to form a tough layer. For a new cast iron cookware, you can repeat this process 3-4 times for 30 minutes of interval each time. Only remove the pan once it has completely cooled down.
If you want to re-season your old cast iron cookware, the process is pretty much the same with the addition of a few steps. First, you should aim to remove all the rust that has accumulated over the years. You can do this by making a mixture of oil and salt, and rubbing it all over the pan.
Once this is done, dip the pan a few times in the hot water to clean its surface. Post this, scrub gently to remove any leftovers. Now, you can follow the same process with the help of butter or vegetable oil to season your old cast iron cookware in a few simple steps.
How to Clean
The more you cook, the more cleaning your cast iron cookware will require. Fortunately, cleaning cast iron cookware is not complicated at all, and you can do it in a few steps without any issues.
Step 1 — Wash:
Always ensure you do not use a dishwasher to clean your cast iron cookware. The dishwasher’s strong washing cycle can erode the seasoning of your cast iron cookware. You can wash the cast iron cookware with hands, and use a small amount of soap. For stains, you can simmer a little water for 3-5 minutes, then use the scraper after the pan has cooled down.
Step 2 — Dry:
Drying after washing is a crucial step and should not be taken easily. You should target to remove any kind of moisture from the cast iron cookware. For this, you can use a paper tissue to wipe off any moisture. If using a cloth, you can use an old one as most probably, the cloth will get a bit dirty from the browning of the pan.
Step 3 — Oil:
The last step in cleaning your cast iron cookware is to oil it well. In fact, you should oil your cast iron cookware every time after washing and using it for the next time. All you have to do is rub a very light layer of cooking or vegetable oil onto the surface of your cookware. You can then use a paper towel to remove any moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What should you not cook in the cast iron cookware?
A. More than what you are cooking in the cast iron cookware, what really matters is the duration of those dishes and also, how well have you seasoned your cast iron pan. To give you a little perspective, you can still cook acidic foods in the cast iron cookware as long as your pan is a bit seasoned. Secondly, the duration of acidic foods such as tomatoes, vinegar, lemon, etc. should not be more than 30 minutes. There is a good chance that after 30 minutes, acidic contents will leach into the iron base leaving a metallic taste in your food.
Q. Where can I buy the best cast iron cookware from?
A. If you are anywhere near Chennai, you should go and explore the local market for cast iron cookware in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. Coimbatore is a city in the south Indian state of Tamil Nadu which is famous for its cast iron cookware. Apparently, most of the cast iron manufacturers on Amazon are operating fromCoimbatore, Tamil Nadu. However, if you are not in that area, you can explore Amazon or other E-commerce sites to buy the best cast iron cookware in India.
Q. Is cast iron stronger than stainless steel?
A. Cast iron is definitely heavier, harder and stronger but that does not mean it is stronger than Stainless steel. In fact, Cast iron is heavier, but the truth is it is not as tough as Stainless steel. Cast iron can warp owing to extreme temperature changes, whereas Stainless steel can resist daily rough and tough usage.
Q. Can I use butter while cooking in the cast iron cookware?
A. Yes, you can absolutely use butter while cooking in the cast iron cookware. As a matter of fact, butter sometimes enhances the taste of your food more than the oil does. Butter is also very helpful to create that nonstick finish on the surface of the cast iron cookware.
Q. Is Cast Iron better than non-stick?
A. It can be a bit difficult to draw a comparison between cast iron and nonstick cookware as both of them have advantages as well as disadvantages. For example, in terms of durability, cast iron cookware ages very well and becomes better day by day. Nonstick cookware requires more maintenance, and it may demand an immediate replacement if you start seeing any pores or holes.
We hope this detailed and comprehensive guide on the Best Cast Iron Cookware in India in 2023 was useful and informative to you. We also encourage you to read the customer reviews of any product before buying. Should you have any questions on this, feel free to leave a comment. If you want our team to review a product you are interested in buying, you can reach out to us at askus@betterchoices.in, and we will be happy to review it.
