A steel tawa is a cooking utensil or griddle used in Indian cuisine. It is a flat, circular-shaped pan typically made of stainless steel. Steel tawas are commonly used for cooking different types of foods such as chappatis, stuffed parathas, uttapam, omelet, and more.
Table of Contents
What Is Steel Tawa?
A steel tawa is typically made of stainless steel. Stainless steel is a type of alloy that contains iron, chromium, and other elements. The specific composition may vary depending on the grade of stainless steel used.
Stainless steel is a popular material due to its long lifespan, high susceptibility to corrosion, and low maintenance requirements. Because of these qualities, it can be used for tawas and other cooking utensils. Stainless steel is used for tawas because it can tolerate high temperatures and distributes heat evenly while cooking.
Benefits Of Steel Tawa:
Steel tawas have several features that make them popular in Indian cooking:
Heat conduction: Steel's high heat conduction capabilities ensure a speedy and uniform heating of the entire tawa's cooking surface. As a result, rotis and other foods may be cooked consistently.
Lightweight: Steel tawas are generally lighter compared to cast iron tawas, making them easier to handle and maneuver during cooking.
Versatility: Steel tawas can be used for various cooking tasks beyond rotis, such as making dosas, parathas, and pancakes.
Compatibility: Steel tawas are compatible with different heat sources, including gas stoves and induction cooktops.
Best Steel Tawa In India:
Meyer Trivantage Stainless Steel Triply Cookware Flat Tawa, 28cm is the best steel tawa in India. It is commonly used in Indian kitchens and is a reliable choice for making rotis and other flatbreads. This steel tawa offers durability, heat conduction, and versatility, making it suitable for everyday cooking needs.
Indian households favour stainless steel due to its durability, hygiene, and nonreactive properties. This nearly indestructible substance is a weak heat conductor. However, this deficiency is well compensated for by the intelligent use of aluminium core in this steel tawa, which promotes rapid and even heat distribution. So, this steel tawa blends the best of both stainless steel and metal to help you make rotis and other Indian flatbreads easily every day.
How To Maintain Steel Tawa?
Maintaining a steel tawa is relatively simple. Here are some tips to help you properly care for and maintain your steel tawa:
Seasoning: Before the first use, it is recommended to season your steel tawa. To do this, heat the tawa on low to medium heat, apply a thin layer of cooking oil all over the surface, and let it heat for a few minutes. Wipe off the excess oil and repeat this process a few times. Seasoning helps in creating a non-stick surface and prevents food from sticking to the tawa.
Cleaning: After each use, allow the steel tawa to cool down completely before cleaning. Rinse it with warm water to remove any loose food particles. Use a gentle dishwashing liquid and a soft sponge or cloth to clean the surface. Don't use scrubbers that are too rough or strong cleaners which could harm the steel tawa. Rinse the steel tawa well and let it dry fully so that any moisture doesn't cause rust.
Removing stubborn stains: If there are stains or residues on the steel tawa that won't come off, you can create a paste out of baking soda and vinegar and rub it on the spot. Let it sit for a while, and then use a fluffy sponge or cloth to scrub it gently. Rinse well and dry well.
Avoid harsh abrasives: Don't use steel wool or metal cleaning pads on the steel tawa because they may damage the steel tawa surface.
Storage: After cleaning and drying, store the steel tawa in a dry place to prevent moisture from causing rust. You can stack it with other cookware, but place a protective barrier like a soft cloth or kitchen towel between them to prevent scratches.
By following these maintenance tips, you can keep your steel tawa in good condition and ensure its longevity. Regular cleaning and proper care will help preserve the non-stick properties and performance of the tawa over time.
What Can You Cook In A Stainless Steel Tawa?
A stainless steel tawa is an incredible cookware that can easily be used to make an assortment of recipes. Here are some popular dishes that you can cook on a steel tawa:
Rotis and Parathas: Stainless steel tawas are commonly used to cook rotis (Indian flatbreads) and parathas. The even heat distribution of the tawa helps in achieving perfectly cooked and lightly charred breads.
Dosas and Uttapams: You can use a stainless steel tawa to make thin and crispy dosas, a popular South Indian delicacy. Additionally, you can prepare uttapams, which are thick and savory pancakes made with fermented batter.
Pancakes and Crepes: Stainless steel tawas are great for making pancakes and crepes of various types. The even heat conduction ensures they cook evenly and get a nice golden-brown color.
Tawa Vegetables: Tawa vegetables are a popular Indian dish where mixed vegetables are sautéed on a tawa. The high heat of the stainless steel tawa allows for quick and flavorful stir-frying.
Quesadillas and Tortillas: Stainless steel tawas can be used to cook Mexican-style quesadillas and warm tortillas. They provide even heat and help achieve a crispy exterior while melting the cheese inside.
Leave a comment