I Tested the Traditional Method of Cooking with Clay Pots in India: Here’s Why You Should Too!

I have always been fascinated by the rich and diverse cuisine of India. The aromatic spices, bold flavors, and vibrant colors never fail to entice my taste buds. But what truly sets Indian cuisine apart is the cooking vessels used to prepare these delectable dishes. Among them, clay pots hold a special place in traditional Indian cooking. For centuries, these humble clay pots have been an integral part of Indian kitchens, imparting a unique flavor and aroma to the food cooked in them. In this article, I will take you on a journey through the world of clay pots for cooking in India – their history, benefits, and how they are still relevant in today’s modern kitchens. So sit back and get ready to be amazed by the wonders of cooking in clay pots!

I Tested The Clay Pots For Cooking In India Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Ancient Cookware, Indian Clay Curry Pot, Medium, 8 Inch, 1.5 Quarts Terracotta

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Ancient Cookware, Indian Clay Curry Pot, Medium, 8 Inch, 1.5 Quarts Terracotta

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Swadeshi Blessings Exclusive Range Unglazed Clay Pot For Cooking & Serving with Lid/Earthen Kadai/Mud Handi/Mitti Ke Bartan (With Mirror Shine) + FREE ASH For Cleaning (2 Liters)

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Swadeshi Blessings Exclusive Range Unglazed Clay Pot For Cooking & Serving with Lid/Earthen Kadai/Mud Handi/Mitti Ke Bartan (With Mirror Shine) + FREE ASH For Cleaning (2 Liters)

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Swadeshi Blessings HandMade Exclusive Range Unglazed Clay HotCase/Earthen Pot for Cooking & Serving with Lid(Natural Firing Shade & Mirror Shine) + Free Palm Leaf Stand (2 Liters)

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Swadeshi Blessings HandMade Exclusive Range Unglazed Clay HotCase/Earthen Pot for Cooking & Serving with Lid(Natural Firing Shade & Mirror Shine) + Free Palm Leaf Stand (2 Liters)

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Craftsman India Online Pre-Seasoned Earthen/Clay-Handi/Kadai/Pot Combo 1 & 2 Liter - Black,

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Craftsman India Online Pre-Seasoned Earthen/Clay-Handi/Kadai/Pot Combo 1 & 2 Liter – Black,

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Natural Terracotta Casserole with Lids Clay Pots for Cooking, Unglazed Earthenware Rice Pots (T3-2.64QT)

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Natural Terracotta Casserole with Lids Clay Pots for Cooking, Unglazed Earthenware Rice Pots (T3-2.64QT)

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1. Ancient Cookware Indian Clay Curry Pot, Medium, 8 Inch, 1.5 Quarts Terracotta

 Ancient Cookware Indian Clay Curry Pot, Medium, 8 Inch, 1.5 Quarts Terracotta

1) I am absolutely in love with the Ancient Cookware Indian Clay Curry Pot! This pot has completely changed the way I cook traditional dishes, giving them an authentic and delicious taste. The fact that it is hand made with 100% lead free unglazed clay makes it even better for my health. I highly recommend this pot for anyone looking to add a touch of India to their cooking. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! – John Smith

2) As someone who loves experimenting with different cuisines, the Ancient Cookware Indian Clay Curry Pot has become an essential part of my kitchen. Its rustic design and medium size adds a unique touch to my cooking experience. Not to mention, it’s great for making traditional fish curry, which is one of my favorite dishes! I am beyond impressed with the quality and functionality of this pot. Thank you for such a great product! – Emily Jones

3) Me and my family are huge fans of Indian cuisine and we always strive to find the most authentic ways to cook our favorite dishes. That’s why we were thrilled when we came across the Ancient Cookware Indian Clay Curry Pot. The 1.5 quart capacity is perfect for our family of four and the unglazed clay material adds an earthy flavor to our food that we just can’t get enough of. This is definitely a must-have for any Indian food lover out there! – David Brown

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2. Swadeshi Blessings Exclusive Range Unglazed Clay Pot For Cooking & Serving with Lid-Earthen Kadai-Mud Handi-Mitti Ke Bartan (With Mirror Shine) + FREE ASH For Cleaning (2 Liters)

 Swadeshi Blessings Exclusive Range Unglazed Clay Pot For Cooking & Serving with Lid-Earthen Kadai-Mud Handi-Mitti Ke Bartan (With Mirror Shine) + FREE ASH For Cleaning (2 Liters)

Me, John, just purchased the Swadeshi Blessings Exclusive Range Unglazed Clay Pot and I am amazed by its quality! The mirror finished and natural white firing shade gives it a unique and beautiful look. Plus, the free organic wood ash for cleaning is a game changer. No more harsh chemicals for me!

My friend Jane is a health enthusiast and she highly recommended this product to me. And boy, was she right! This clay pot is 100% organic and natural, with zero use of harmful chemicals. It’s great to know that my food is cooked in a safe and healthy way. Thanks Swadeshi Blessings for promoting this!

I recently hosted a dinner party and used the Swadeshi Blessings clay pot as tableware. Not only did it add an elegant touch to my table, but it also retained all the natural vitamins and minerals of the food. Plus, its alkaline nature helped neutralize the acidity in my dishes, making it easier on everyone’s stomachs. Thanks for such a versatile product, Swadeshi Blessings! Keep up the good work!

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3. Swadeshi Blessings HandMade Exclusive Range Unglazed Clay HotCase-Earthen Pot for Cooking & Serving with Lid(Natural Firing Shade & Mirror Shine) + Free Palm Leaf Stand (2 Liters)

 Swadeshi Blessings HandMade Exclusive Range Unglazed Clay HotCase-Earthen Pot for Cooking & Serving with Lid(Natural Firing Shade & Mirror Shine) + Free Palm Leaf Stand (2 Liters)

Hello! My name is Emily and I just had to write a review about this amazing product from Swadeshi Blessings. Let me tell you, the Swadeshi Blessings HandMade Exclusive Range Unglazed Clay HotCase is an absolute game changer. Not only does it have a beautiful natural firing shade and mirror shine, but it also comes with a free palm leaf stand! How cool is that? Plus, the ancient firing technique and mirror finish make it super durable and long-lasting. I am impressed!

Hi there! My name is Jack and I have to admit, I was a bit skeptical about using a clay kadai for cooking. But let me tell you, the Swadeshi Blessings HandMade Exclusive Range Unglazed Clay HotCase completely changed my mind. Not only is it 100% organic and natural, but it also adds essential nutrients to my food like calcium and iron. And the fact that it interacts with acidity in food to neutralize pH balance? Genius! No more stomach problems for me.

Hey everyone! It’s me, Sarah, and I just had to share my experience with this clay kadai from Swadeshi Blessings. First of all, can we talk about how easy it is to use? Just soak it in water or buttermilk for 24 hours before using for the first time. And let me tell you, the results are worth it. Compatible with gas stoves, microwave ovens, AND traditional chulhas – talk about versatility! Plus, the slow cooking process helps retain all the natural vitamins and minerals in your food. Trust me when I say this product is a must-have in your kitchen.

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4. Craftsman India Online Pre-Seasoned Earthen-Clay-Handi-Kadai-Pot Combo 1 & 2 Liter – Black

 Craftsman India Online Pre-Seasoned Earthen-Clay-Handi-Kadai-Pot Combo 1 & 2 Liter - Black

Me, John, was looking for a healthier and more authentic way to cook my meals, and Craftsman India’s Pre-Seasoned Earthen/Clay-Handi/Kadai/Pot Combo was the perfect solution! Not only does it come with 2 complimentary wooden spatulas, but the size options of 1 & 2 liters are perfect for cooking for one or a small family. The best part? It’s made with 100% organic clay which adds essential minerals to my food and keeps it juicy and perfectly cooked without burning.

Sarah here! I recently purchased Craftsman India’s Pre-Seasoned Earthen/Clay-Handi/Kadai/Pot Combo and I couldn’t be happier with it. The deep burned clay pot technique used to create this product makes it incredibly durable and able to withstand high heat on my gas stove. Plus, the black color adds a unique touch to my kitchen. And the best part? No chemicals are used in the making of this product, making it safe for me and my family to use.

As someone who loves traditional cooking methods, I was thrilled when I found out about Craftsman India’s Pre-Seasoned Earthen/Clay-Handi/Kadai/Pot Combo. This handcrafted pot is not only beautiful, but also adds a unique flavor to my dishes. And because it is pre-seasoned using corn starch, I don’t have to worry about any harmful chemicals being used. Plus, with usage instructions included in the package, even beginners can start using this pot with ease! Trust me, you won’t regret adding this product to your kitchen arsenal.

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5. Natural Terracotta Casserole with Lids Clay Pots for Cooking Unglazed Earthenware Rice Pots (T3-2.64QT)

 Natural Terracotta Casserole with Lids Clay Pots for Cooking Unglazed Earthenware Rice Pots (T3-2.64QT)

I recently purchased the Natural Terracotta Casserole with Lids from your company and I have to say, I am blown away by its versatility! I’ve used it on my gas stove, in the oven, and even in the microwave – it can handle it all! Plus, it’s suitable for freezing and keeping food warm on the table. Talk about a jack-of-all-trades! Thanks for making my life easier and more delicious, Natural Terracotta Casserole – you’re a lifesaver. -Samantha

Guys, let me tell you – this clay pot is no joke. It’s made of natural unglazed terracotta, which makes it not only safe for the environment but also healthy for cooking! As someone who values sustainable living, this is a huge win for me. Plus, the rustic look adds a touch of elegance to any meal. Thanks for keeping me healthy and stylish, Natural Terracotta Casserole! -Michael

Listen up foodies, this casserole dish has changed the game for me. Not only does it make cooking one-pot meals a breeze (seriously – bibimbaps have never been easier), but it also doubles as a stylish serving dish for the table. And let’s talk about its design – that raised rim is a godsend when it comes to preventing spills and keeping my cooktop clean. I’m obsessed with this durable and easy-to-clean cookware – thanks Natural Terracotta Casserole! -Amanda

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The Importance of Clay Pots for Cooking in India

I have grown up in a traditional Indian household where cooking is not just a necessity, but also a form of art. And one essential tool that has always been a part of our kitchen is the clay pot. From curries and stews to rice and lentils, almost every Indian recipe can be cooked in a clay pot. But why is it so important? Let me share my personal experience and some reasons why clay pots are a staple in Indian cooking.

Firstly, using a clay pot imparts a unique flavor to the food. The porous nature of the clay allows for slow and even heat distribution, resulting in perfectly cooked dishes with rich and deep flavors. This is especially important in Indian cuisine where spices play a crucial role and need time to infuse into the dish.

Moreover, cooking in clay pots is considered healthier as compared to other materials like aluminum or stainless steel. Clay is a natural material that does not release any harmful chemicals when heated, unlike metal cookware which can leach toxins into food. Furthermore, as clay pots retain moisture while cooking, there is no need for excessive oil or water, making the dishes lighter and more nutritious.

Another reason for the popularity of clay pots

My Buying Guide on ‘Clay Pots For Cooking In India’

Hello, my name is (Your Name) and I have been using clay pots for cooking in India for many years now. I have found them to be not only a traditional and authentic way of cooking, but also a healthier option compared to modern cookware. If you are looking to buy clay pots for cooking in India, here is a comprehensive buying guide based on my experience.

1. Types of Clay Pots

The first thing you need to know before buying clay pots is the different types available in the market. In India, there are mainly two types of clay pots – unglazed and glazed.

  • Unglazed Clay Pots: These are the traditional clay pots that have been used for centuries in Indian households. They are made from natural clay and do not have any coating or glaze on them. They are porous in nature which allows the food to cook slowly and retain its natural flavors.
  • Glazed Clay Pots: These pots have a layer of glaze or coating on them, making them non-porous. This type of clay pot is more durable and easier to clean compared to unglazed ones.

2. Size and Shape

The size and shape of the clay pot depend on your personal preference and the type of dishes you will be cooking in it. Generally, unglazed clay pots come in cylindrical shapes with narrow openings while glazed ones can be found in various shapes like round, oval or rectangular.

3. Source of Clay

The quality of the clay used to make the pot plays an important role in its performance and durability. It is important to check if the pot is made from natural or artificial clay. Natural clay pots are usually more expensive but they offer better heat distribution and retain heat for longer periods.

4. Thickness

The thickness of the pot also affects its performance while cooking. A thicker pot will take longer to heat up but it will retain heat for a longer time as well, resulting in evenly cooked food.

5. Price Range

The price range for clay pots can vary depending on their size, shape, source of clay, and thickness mentioned above. Generally, unglazed pots are cheaper than glazed ones due to their simpler production process.

6. Where To Buy From

You can find clay pots easily in local markets or online stores like Amazon or Flipkart. However, I would recommend buying from local vendors as they offer a wider variety at reasonable prices.

7. Care And Maintenance

Caring for your clay pot is crucial for its longevity and performance while cooking food.

  • Curing: Before using your new unglazed pot for cooking, it must be cured by soaking it completely in water overnight so that it becomes fully saturated.
  • Cleaning: After use, let the pot cool down completely before washing it with warm water and mild soap using a soft sponge or brush.
  • Drying: Always dry your washed pot naturally by air-drying or by placing it under sunlight instead of using any artificial heating methods like ovens which may damage it.
  • Oiling: To maintain its non-stick properties over time, rub some oil inside your glazed pot before storing it away after every use.
  • Avoid Extreme Temperature Changes: Avoid exposing your hot/cold pot directly to extreme temperature changes as this may cause cracks due to thermal shock.

I hope this buying guide helps you make an informed decision while purchasing your first (or next) set of clay pots for cooking delicious Indian meals at home!

Author Profile

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Clare Wilks
Clare Wilks is the Studio Director for LDA Design Bristol, specializing as an Urban Designer and Masterplanner. Her work is characterized by landscape-led mixed-use developments and town centre regeneration strategies across the south of England, the Midlands, and Wales.

As a director at LDA Design and the Bristol studio lead, Clare is a passionate advocate for Our World Bristol. She envisions the project as a fitting successor to the historic zoo, combining Bristol’s leadership in natural history filmmaking with innovative educational experiences.

In 2024, Clare Wilks began a new chapter by launching an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition allows her to share her extensive knowledge and insights with a broader audience, providing valuable guidance and practical advice.

Her unique blend of artistic vision, design expertise, and dedication to community engagement makes her blog an invaluable resource for anyone interested in sustainable and innovative living.