The culinary world is almost incomplete without flatbreads; they make an important part of several cuisines, especially our own. It is thus imperative for every Indian kitchen to have a range of quality tawas that are durable and can be used daily to make every sort of flatbread, from rotis and parathas to crepes, dosas, chillas, etc. But, choosing the right tawa can be a daunting task not just for beginners but for seasoned cooks too. Well, we have your back! Here’s a useful guide you’ll want to bookmark and share with all those looking for some tips to choose the right tawa for their kitchens.
A Guide to Choosing the Right Dosa Tawa
Tawas are available in a range of sizes, shapes, and materials, each with definitive characteristics. Here’s what you must consider when buying one.
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The Right Material
Choosing the right material for your tawa depends on its usage. Given below are some types with their benefits that can help you make an informed decision.
- Non-Stick Tawa – Non-stick tawas have gained popularity for their convenience and ease of cleaning. If you’re keen on buying one of these tawas, consider the PFOA-free tawas for cooking. Also, remember that these tawas need additional care to ensure they last longer and perform well. Therefore, you must use wooden spatulas instead of metal to prevent the coating from chipping and prolonging its lifespan.
- Triply Stick-Resistant Tawa – The triply stick-resistant tawa is a great alternative for complete non-stick tawas. It consists of a safe non-stick coating embedded in hexagonal ridges that allows you to use metal spoons while reaping the benefits of non-stick cookware. Choosing quality triply in this case will ensure its longevity and functionality.
- Cast Iron Tawa – The cast iron tawa has been a favorite for generations. Its unparalleled heat retention and distribution make it ideal for a wide range of cooking styles. They do need proper seasoning which, if done properly and consistently, makes them virtually non-stick, allowing you to cook with minimal oil.
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High Heat Retention and Sturdy Handles
Your tawa should ideally last a generation; therefore, choose a sturdy tawa with even thickness offers high heat retention to perform better for Indian cuisine and has a durable, heat-resistant handle for ease of cooking.
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Choose PFOA-Free and Chip-Resistant Non-Stick Tawas
Toxin-free & PFOA-free tawas provide a safe way to cook your food, but consider tawas that are chip-resistant too to reduce the chances of ingesting the coating through foods cooked in them.
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Ease of Cleaning and Maintaining
Your tawa should be convenient to use, so choose one that is easier to clean and maintain. Heavier tawas, such as the cast iron tawa, are cumbersome to handle and require seasoning after every use to prevent corrosion as opposed to the stick-resistant variety which doesn’t need seasoning and is easier to maintain and use.
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Check for Cooktop Compatibility
Our kitchens have taken a contemporary form nowadays, and we need cookware to keep up with the evolution. Tawas should thus be compatible with most cooktops, especially induction tops, as they are commonly found in Indian kitchens.
Your tawa will influence your culinary journey significantly. This guide should help you choose the right one to continue creating delicious tawa recipes for decades.
