Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the best cookware for Indian cooking! Indian cuisine is celebrated globally for its rich flavors, diverse spices, and intricate cooking techniques. To truly master these culinary delights, having the right tools is essential. From the slow simmering of curries to the quick stir-frying of vegetables and deep-frying of savories, specific types of cookware excel in bringing out the authentic taste and texture of Indian dishes. In this roundup, we delve into top-rated pots, pans, and woks that are perfect for your Indian kitchen, ensuring even heat distribution, durability, and versatility for every culinary adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting your journey with Indian food, our expert-tested recommendations will help you choose the ideal pieces to elevate your cooking.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Cookware For Indian Cooking Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Made In 10-inch Stainless Steel Kadai Pan, 5 Ply Clad. Best for Indian Cooking, Induction Ready.
The Made In 10-inch Stainless Steel Kadai Pan offers exceptional quality and performance, making it a stellar choice for a variety of Indian cooking methods. Its 5-ply clad construction ensures superior heat conduction and distribution, essential for achieving perfectly cooked curries, sabzis, and deep-fried snacks. This pan is also conveniently induction ready, broadening its appeal for modern kitchens.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 5-Ply Clad Construction: Ensures professional-quality heat distribution and retention.
- ✓ Versatile Design: Wide bowl and sloping sides are ideal for stir-frying, simmering, and deep-frying.
- ✓ Induction Ready: Compatible with all stovetops, including induction cooktops.
- ✓ Durable Stainless Steel: Offers outstanding durability and reliability for daily use.
- ✓ Optimal Dimensions: 10.45” total diameter, 6” cooking surface, with comfortable handles for easy maneuverability.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend the Made In Kadai for its robust build and exceptional performance. The multi-ply construction eliminates hot spots, providing consistent results whether you’re searing spices or slow-cooking a rich gravy. Its design is perfectly suited for the dynamic movements often seen in Indian cooking, making it a versatile workhorse in any kitchen.
Best For
This kadai is best for home cooks and culinary enthusiasts seeking a high-performance, durable pan for authentic Indian dishes, including curries, stir-fries, and deep-fried items like pakoras or puri.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent heat distribution prevents burning.
- Robust stainless steel construction ensures longevity.
- Versatile for a wide range of cooking tasks.
- Compatible with all stovetops, including induction.
Cons:
- Can be heavy due to its multi-ply construction.
- Requires proper seasoning and care to prevent food from sticking.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I was first introduced to Asian cooking in my twenties, since then I am 61 years old now. I have owned a few woks in my day. I’ve had nonstick, carbon steel, and even cast iron. They all had their pros and cons, but they don’t hold a candle to this stainless steel Kadai. After reading some of the revi”
Customer Review: “This is exactly what we needed for a curve-sided pan. As we’ve gotten a bit older, our favorite pans (mostly All Clad & Demeyere) have sadly become just too heavy for us to use easily. I thought we’d have to give up quality to find something more lightweight, but this pan is really nicely made, co”
2. Delarlo Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 11-inch Deep Sauté Pan with Lid, Induction, Oven Safe
The Delarlo Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 11-inch Deep Sauté Pan with Lid is an outstanding piece for any kitchen, particularly well-suited for diverse Indian cooking needs. Its high-quality tri-ply construction ensures rapid and even heating, which is crucial for perfect sautéing, simmering, and frying. This pan is also highly versatile, being both induction and oven safe, adding to its functionality and appeal.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ High-Quality Tri-Ply Steel: Offers excellent thermal conductivity and even heat distribution.
- ✓ Healthy Material: Made from durable and food-safe stainless steel, free from harmful coatings.
- ✓ Efficient Heating: Outer layer is stainless steel for excellent compatibility with heat sources, middle layer of aluminum for fast, uniform heating.
- ✓ Versatile Use: Suitable for induction, gas, electric, and oven use (up to high temperatures).
- ✓ Deep Sauté Design: Ideal for larger batches of curries, gravies, and one-pot meals.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Delarlo Tri-Ply Sauté Pan for its exceptional balance of quality, health, and performance. Its deep design and efficient heating make it perfect for preparing traditional Indian stews and sauces without hot spots, ensuring delicious and consistent results every time.
Best For
This pan is ideal for those who regularly cook larger quantities of Indian gravies, curries, or biryanis, and appreciate a durable, healthy, and versatile cookware option that works across all heat sources.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Superior heat distribution and retention.
- Healthy stainless steel material with no chemical coatings.
- Highly versatile: induction, oven, and all stovetop compatible.
- Large capacity and deep sides reduce splatter.
Cons:
- Can be heavy, especially when full.
- Stainless steel requires proper temperature management to prevent sticking.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I bought this to replace a Teflon pot of similar size and shape. The cooking capacity is just as promised, large, nice depth & width, it cleans well. Just be sure to use enough oil. An SOS pad works if you get anything stuck on. (Or soap with a drier sheet overnight). I’ve used and washed many times”
Customer Review: “I was looking for a large stainless steel steamer that had a stainless steel lid (not glass) to fit my 9″ cake pan for Christmas Pudding. This steamer pot finally came across my search, had all i was looking for, and good reviews. I’m very impressed with the weight of”
3. Tri-Ply Stainless Steel Kadhai, 11-Inch Sauté Pan with Lid for Indian Cooking, Induction.
The Tri-Ply Stainless Steel Kadhai, 11-Inch Sauté Pan with Lid is an excellent choice for those seeking high-quality cookware for Indian cooking without breaking the bank. Featuring advanced Tri-Ply HeatMaster Technology, it combines a premium aluminum core with dual stainless steel layers, ensuring fast, even heating. This versatility allows you to simmer delicate sauces or perform high-heat stir-fries with ease, perfect for any Indian kitchen.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Tri-Ply HeatMaster Technology: Ensures rapid and uniform heat distribution, eliminating hot spots.
- ✓ Versatile Applications: Suitable for simmering, blanching, braising, and stir-frying across various cuisines.
- ✓ Cool-Grip Riveted Handles: Designed to stay cool on high heat, with an anti-slip texture for safe handling.
- ✓ Induction Compatible: Works flawlessly on all cooktops, including induction, gas, and electric.
- ✓ Durable & Easy to Clean: High-quality stainless steel construction ensures longevity and simple maintenance.
Why We Recommend It
This Tri-Ply Kadhai is highly recommended for its exceptional heat performance and robust build at a budget-friendly price point. It performs like premium cookware, making it an indispensable tool for preparing a wide range of Indian meals efficiently and effectively.
Best For
This kadhai is best for home cooks looking for a high-quality, versatile, and budget-friendly kadhai that can handle daily Indian cooking tasks, from tempering spices to making rich curries.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent heat retention and even heat distribution.
- Ergonomic cool-grip handles for comfortable use.
- Highly versatile for various cooking methods.
- Impressive quality for its affordable price.
Cons:
- Can be heavy, which might be a concern for some users.
- Like all stainless steel, requires care to prevent food from sticking without sufficient oil.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This kadai blew my mind, it’s so strong and heavy. It’s really amazing the quality and finish of the tri-ply stainless steel pan. It was heavy, so initially, I felt a lot. This type of pan will have an impact on cooking as it will allow the heat to be evenly distributed around the bowl, and it will “
Customer Review: “Really nice looking pan, it’s bottom heavy so that heat spreads evenly and won’t burn the food.”
4. Heavy-Duty 8-inch Cast Iron Wok with Handles for Versatile Stove, Oven, and Grill Cooking.
This Heavy-Duty 8-inch Cast Iron Wok with Handles is an exceptional addition for anyone passionate about Indian cooking, especially those looking for traditional flavors and robust performance. Made from durable cast iron, it excels at retaining heat and sealing in moisture and flavor, making it perfect for slow-cooked curries, deep-frying, and achieving a perfect sear. Its versatility extends to various cooking environments, including stove, oven, and grill, embracing the diverse needs of an Indian kitchen.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Durable Cast Iron Construction: Built for long-lasting use and excellent heat retention.
- ✓ Versatile Cooking Surface: Retains heat and seals in moisture and flavor, ideal for many Indian dishes.
- ✓ Cook Anywhere Capability: Oven-safe and compatible with glass-top stoves, induction, grills, and live fire.
- ✓ Pre-seasoned: Ready to use out of the box, with natural non-stick properties that improve with use.
- ✓ Integrated Handles: Sturdy handles for easy lifting and maneuvering, even when hot.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend this cast iron wok for its ability to deliver superior heat retention and distribution, which is essential for developing the deep, rich flavors characteristic of Indian cuisine. Its robust nature means it will be a cornerstone of your kitchen for years to come, improving with every use.
Best For
This wok is best for home cooks who appreciate the traditional benefits of cast iron cookware, including superior heat retention and even cooking, particularly for authentic Indian stir-fries, deep-fries, and slow-simmered dishes.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional heat retention and even cooking.
- Extremely durable and built to last generations.
- Adds iron to food, a beneficial dietary element.
- Versatile for use on multiple heat sources, including outdoor cooking.
Cons:
- Requires regular seasoning and specific cleaning methods to prevent rust.
- Can be quite heavy, making it challenging for some to lift.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Love it. So compact and deep enough to make sufficient quantity for 4 people. I could use stainless steel laddle and no scratches yet. Easy to clean, just dry and apply oil before storing so that there’s no rusting. Little heavy but great quality.”
Customer Review: “I waited a bit to review as I’m a newbie using cast iron. I seasoned the pan upon receipt. This pan has been amazing! I use it every day! The lid makes it fabulous for baking fresh bread! This pan makes healthy living much easier!”
5. DELARLO Wok Pan With Lid 12 Inch Non stick wok,Oven Safe Up to 600℉,Woks & Stir-Fry Pans Nonstick…
The DELARLO Wok Pan with Lid 12 Inch Non-stick Wok is designed for modern cooking, offering a fantastic blend of traditional wok versatility with convenient non-stick properties. Its tri-ply bonded construction ensures fast and even heating, making it highly energy-efficient and perfect for the dynamic cooking styles of Indian cuisine. This wok is also remarkably versatile, compatible with all stovetop types and oven-safe up to 600℉, making it a powerful asset in any kitchen.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Tri-Ply Bonded Construction: Ensures optimal heat distribution for quick and even cooking.
- ✓ Energy Efficiency: Rapid heating and excellent heat retention save time and energy.
- ✓ Non-Stick Surface: Promotes healthy cooking with less oil and makes cleaning effortless.
- ✓ Highly Versatile: Flawlessly performs on induction, gas, electric, halogen, glass, and ceramic cooktops.
- ✓ Oven Safe up to 600℉: Offers flexibility for finishing dishes in the oven.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the DELARLO Wok for its excellent fusion of high-performance cooking and user-friendly design. The non-stick surface is a game-changer for dishes prone to sticking, while its robust construction ensures it can handle high-heat stir-frying and simmering crucial for many Indian recipes.
Best For
This wok is best for those who desire a large, versatile, and easy-to-clean wok for everyday Indian stir-fries, vegetable preparations, and one-pot meals, particularly if they prioritize convenience and non-stick performance.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Superior non-stick performance for healthier cooking and easy cleanup.
- Excellent heat conductivity and retention across the entire pan.
- Extremely versatile, compatible with all stovetops and oven-safe.
- Durable construction built to withstand rigorous use.
Cons:
- Non-stick coatings, while durable, may eventually degrade over time with heavy use.
- Some users may prefer traditional carbon steel for wok cooking.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I’m loving this pan! The shape conducts heat beautifully, and the size is ample for everyday cooking. The inner surface enables browning while still being non-stick. It cleans nicely too. I think it’s supposed to be scratch-resistant, but I haven’t had the courage to try yet. The pan is suitable for “
Customer Review: “I love this brand of “hex-clad” style pans. I have purchased multiple frying and sauce pans from this company and have never been disappointed. They are well made, perform well over time and clean-up easily. This wok style pan essentially completes my set – until a new style comes out! An excellent “
Complete Buying Guide for Best Cookware For Indian Cooking
Essential Factors We Consider
When selecting the best cookware for Indian cooking, several factors come into play to ensure you get the most out of your kitchen tools. Material is paramount: stainless steel offers durability, even heating (especially tri-ply or 5-ply clad), and is non-reactive, making it ideal for acidic ingredients like tomatoes in curries. Cast iron provides excellent heat retention, perfect for slow-cooked dishes and deep-frying, though it requires more maintenance. Non-stick coatings offer convenience for everyday use, particularly for items like dosas or light stir-fries, but choose PFOA-free options for health and durability. Consider the size and shape: a traditional kadai (wok-like pan) is essential for sautéing, frying, and simmering. A deep sauté pan is also incredibly versatile. Look for sturdy, heat-resistant handles and lids that fit well to seal in moisture and flavors. Lastly, compatibility with your stovetop (gas, electric, induction) is crucial, so always check for induction readiness if applicable.
Budget Planning
Investing in quality cookware for Indian cooking doesn’t necessarily mean breaking the bank. There’s a wide range of options to suit various budgets. Entry-level stainless steel or basic non-stick pans can be quite affordable and offer good performance for everyday cooking. Mid-range options often include tri-ply stainless steel or seasoned cast iron, providing enhanced durability and heat distribution that justifies the slightly higher price. High-end cookware, like premium multi-ply clad stainless steel or specialized pieces, will offer superior performance and longevity but come with a significant investment. Consider starting with essential pieces like a good kadai and a versatile sauté pan, then gradually build your collection as your needs and budget allow. Remember, durable cookware is a long-term investment that can improve your cooking experience and save money on replacements.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right cookware for Indian cooking is a journey towards culinary excellence. The diverse techniques and flavors of Indian cuisine demand tools that can withstand high heat, distribute warmth evenly, and offer versatility. From robust stainless steel kadais that handle simmering curries with ease, to traditional cast iron woks that impart authentic depth to your dishes, and modern non-stick pans for convenience, each piece plays a vital role. Prioritize materials that match your cooking style, ensure compatibility with your kitchen setup, and always consider durability for long-term enjoyment. With the right selection, you’ll be well-equipped to explore the vibrant world of Indian gastronomy and create delicious, memorable meals for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the most essential piece of cookware for Indian cooking?
A: A kadai (often referred to as an Indian wok or deep-frying pan) is arguably the most essential piece of cookware for Indian cooking. Its deep, sloped sides are ideal for sautéing spices, simmering curries, stir-frying vegetables, and deep-frying pakoras or samosas. A good quality stainless steel or cast iron kadai will serve you well for a variety of tasks.
Q: Is cast iron cookware good for Indian cooking?
A: Yes, cast iron cookware is excellent for Indian cooking. It offers superb heat retention and even heat distribution, which is perfect for achieving deep flavors in slow-cooked dishes like curries and dals. It’s also ideal for high-heat cooking and deep-frying. However, it requires proper seasoning and maintenance to prevent rust and maintain its non-stick properties.
Q: Can I use regular non-stick pans for Indian dishes?
A: You can use regular non-stick pans for some Indian dishes, especially those that benefit from minimal oil or are prone to sticking, like dosas, uttapams, or light stir-fries. However, for high-heat cooking, searing, or simmering acidic curries for long durations, stainless steel or cast iron might be more suitable due to their durability and non-reactive nature at high temperatures.
Q: What’s the benefit of tri-ply or 5-ply stainless steel for Indian cooking?
A: Tri-ply or 5-ply (multi-clad) stainless steel cookware consists of layers of stainless steel surrounding an aluminum or copper core. This construction significantly improves heat distribution and responsiveness compared to single-ply stainless steel. For Indian cooking, this means more even cooking, fewer hot spots that can burn food, and better temperature control, leading to superior results for curries, gravies, and sautéing.
Q: Is induction-compatible cookware important for an Indian kitchen?
A: If you have an induction cooktop or are considering one, then induction-compatible cookware is absolutely essential. Many modern Indian kitchens are moving towards induction for its energy efficiency and precise temperature control. All the cookware recommended in this guide includes options that are induction-ready, ensuring versatility for different kitchen setups.
In conclusion, choosing the best cookware for Indian cooking is about empowering your culinary journey with tools that meet the unique demands of this vibrant cuisine. Whether you prioritize traditional materials like cast iron for authentic flavors or modern conveniences like multi-ply stainless steel for efficiency and versatility, our curated list provides excellent options. Each piece has been selected for its ability to deliver outstanding performance, ensuring that every curry, dal, and stir-fry you prepare is bursting with flavor and perfectly cooked. We encourage you to explore these top picks and invest in the cookware that will elevate your Indian kitchen. Happy cooking!
