Kadai Hacks: How to Maximize Its Versatility in 2025

A kadai is a quintessential kitchen tool in Indian households, and its uses go far beyond frying or cooking curries. With a bit of creativity and knowledge, you can unlock the full potential of your kadai, transforming it into a multi-purpose culinary powerhouse. In 2025, with modern cookware designs and evolving cooking techniques, the kadai has become even more versatile. Here are some clever hacks to help you make the most of your kadai.

Transform It into a Baking Tool

Your kadai can double as an oven for baking cakes, bread, or cookies, especially if you don’t have access to a conventional oven.

How to Do It:

1. Place a stand or small steel bowl inside the kadai to act as a base for your baking dish.
2. Preheat the kadai on low heat with the lid on.
3. Place the baking dish on the stand, cover the kadai, and cook on low heat.
4. Check occasionally until your baked goods are ready.

Tip: Use a cast iron or enamel-coated kadai for better heat retention and even baking.

Use It as a Steamer

Steaming momos, dumplings, or vegetables is easy with your kadai.

How to Do It:

1. Add a small amount of water to the kadai.
2. Place a perforated plate, steamer basket, or steel colander over the water.
3. Arrange the food items in the steamer basket.
4. Cover the kadai with a tight-fitting lid and steam until done.

Tip: A tri-ply stainless steel kadai works best for steaming due to its quick and even heating properties.

Make It a Wok for Stir-Frying

The curved design of a kadai makes it perfect for stir-frying vegetables, noodles, or rice dishes.

How to Do It:

1. Heat a small amount of oil in the kadai over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped vegetables, meats, or noodles and stir continuously.
3. Use a wide spatula for better control.

Tip: For stir-frying, opt for a lightweight, ceramic-coated or stainless steel kadai for better maneuverability.

Turn It into a Tandoor

Recreate the magic of a tandoor at home using your kadai.

How to Do It:

1. Place a steel rack inside the kadai.
2. Preheat the kadai on high heat.
3. Place marinated vegetables, paneer, or breads like naan or roti on the rack.
4. Cover with a lid to trap the heat and cook evenly.

Tip: A cast iron kadai is ideal for achieving the smoky flavors of a tandoor.

Dry Roast Spices and Nuts

Dry roasting is an essential step in Indian cooking to enhance the aroma and flavor of spices and nuts.

How to Do It:

1. Preheat the kadai on low to medium heat.
2. Add the spices or nuts without any oil.
3. Stir continuously until aromatic and lightly browned.

Tip: Use a non-stick or ceramic kadai for easier cleanup.

Use It for Deep Frying

The depth and curved sides of a kadai make it perfect for deep frying snacks like samosas, pakoras, and puris.

How to Do It:

1. Heat oil in the kadai until it reaches the desired temperature.
2. Gently lower the food items into the oil and fry until golden brown.
3. Use a slotted spoon to remove and drain excess oil.

Tip: A heavy-bottomed kadai, such as an enamel-coated or tri-ply stainless steel one, ensures the oil stays at a consistent temperature.

Simmer Soups and Curries

The kadai’s excellent heat retention makes it ideal for simmering soups, stews, and curries.

How to Do It:

1. Add your ingredients to the kadai with the required liquid.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer.
3. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Tip: Enamel-coated kadais are perfect for acidic soups and curries as they are non-reactive.

Cook One-Pot Meals

The kadai’s spacious interior is perfect for cooking one-pot meals like biryanis, pulaos, or pasta.

How to Do It:

1. Sauté the base ingredients like onions, garlic, and spices.
2. Add rice, grains, or pasta along with water or stock.
3. Cover and cook until the ingredients are fully done.

Tip: A tri-ply stainless steel kadai ensures even cooking without sticking.

Make Flatbreads and Crepes

A kadai can serve as a substitute for a griddle when making flatbreads or crepes.

How to Do It:

1. Preheat the kadai on medium heat.
2. Lightly grease the surface if needed.
3. Pour batter for crepes or place rolled dough for flatbreads.
4. Cook until golden brown on both sides.

Tip: Use a kadai with a flat base for better results.

Conclusion

In 2025, the kadai has proven to be a versatile kitchen essential capable of much more than traditional cooking. With innovative cookware designs and creative hacks, it can replace several specialized kitchen tools. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, these hacks will help you maximize the potential of your kadai and make your cooking experience more enjoyable and efficient. Embrace the adaptability of your kadai and explore endless culinary possibilities!