Non Stick Induction Tawa: Important Facts, Uses And Benefits

A non-stick induction tawa is a cooking utensil that combines the features of a tawa (a flat pan used for making Indian flatbreads) with a non-stick surface and compatibility with induction cooktops.

A non-stick induction tawa is a cooking utensil that combines the features of a tawa (a flat pan used for making Indian flatbreads) with a non-stick surface and compatibility with induction cooktops.

Key Features Of A Non Induction Tawa:

Tawa: A tawa is a traditional flat and round cooking pan used in Indian cooking, especially for making flatbreads like rotis, dosas, and parathas. It typically has a flat cooking surface with slightly raised edges to prevent batter from spilling.

Non-Stick Coating: A non-stick induction tawa is coated with a layer of non-stick material, usually a type of polymer or ceramic coating. This coating prevents food from sticking to the pan's surface, making cooking and cleaning easier.

Induction Compatibility: Induction cooktops use electromagnetic fields to directly heat the cookware. For cookware to work on an induction cooktop, it needs to have a magnetic base that responds to these fields. A non-stick induction tawa is designed with this magnetic base, allowing it to be used on induction stoves.

Uses Of A Non Induction Tawa:

You can use it to prepare a variety of dishes, from Indian flatbreads to other foods that require a flat cooking surface. It offers the benefits of even heat distribution, easy release of food, and the ability to cook with less oil or butter. Non-stick induction tawas are popular among those who have induction cooktops and want to enjoy the convenience of non-stick cooking while preparing traditional Indian dishes.

Is Non Stick Induction Tawa Useful?

Yes, a non-stick induction tawa is indeed useful and offers several benefits for cooking, especially if you have an induction cooktop. Here's why a non-stick induction tawa can be advantageous:

1. Efficient Cooking: Non-stick induction tawas heat up quickly and evenly, ensuring efficient cooking of a variety of foods, from flatbreads like rotis and dosas to pancakes and more.
2. Healthier Cooking: Because the non-stick coating uses less oil for cooking, it is a healthier alternative because you may limit the amount of fat that you are adding to your diet.
3. Easy Food Release: The non-stick surface prevents food from sticking, allowing you to flip and remove items with ease, resulting in well-cooked and intact dishes.
4. Simple Cleanup: Cleaning a non-stick induction tawa is hassle-free; food residue is less likely to cling to the surface, making cleanup quicker and easier.
5. Versatility: While designed for Indian flatbreads, a non-stick induction tawa can be used for cooking other foods like eggs, crepes, and tortillas.
6. Induction Compatibility: It is specifically designed to work on induction cooktops, ensuring optimal heat transfer and cooking efficiency.
7. Time-Saving: The even heat distribution and non-stick properties mean faster cooking times and reduced monitoring, saving you time in the kitchen.
8. Less Burnt Food: With non-stick properties, there's a decreased likelihood of burning or scorching food, making it suitable for delicate dishes.
9. Convenience: The combination of non-stick and induction compatibility offers convenient cooking for those who prefer modern cooking technologies.

While a non-stick induction tawa offers many benefits, it's important to care for the non-stick coating properly to ensure its longevity. Avoid using metal utensils that could damage the surface, and follow the manufacturer's guidelines for cleaning and maintenance.

Difference Between Non Stick Tawa And Non Stick Induction Tawa

The primary difference between a non-stick tawa and a non-stick induction tawa lies in their compatibility with different types of cooktops and their intended uses. Let's break down the distinctions:

Non-Stick Tawa:

1. A non-stick tawa, also known as a regular non-stick pan or flat pan, is designed for use on traditional stovetops such as gas or electric burners.
2. It has a flat cooking surface with slightly raised edges, which makes it appropriate for producing a range of cuisines, such as Indian flatbreads and other dishes like crepes, pancakes,  and more. This makes it a versatile cooking surface.
3. While it offers the convenience of a non-stick coating for easy food release and clean up, it's not specifically designed for induction cooktops.

Non-Stick Induction Tawa:

1. A non-stick induction tawa is specially designed to be compatible with induction cooktops.
2. Induction cooktops use electromagnetic fields to directly heat the cookware, and for cookware to work on an induction cooktop, it must have a magnetic base. A non-stick induction tawa is equipped with this magnetic base.
3. It provides all the benefits of a non-stick tawa, including even cooking and easy food release, but with the added advantage of being suitable for induction cooking.
4. The term "induction" in the name signifies that it's engineered to efficiently transfer heat from the induction cooktop to the tawa, allowing you to cook with precision.

In summary, the key distinction is that a non-stick tawa is designed for traditional gas or electric stovetops, while a non-stick induction tawa is optimized for induction cooktops. If you have an induction cooktop and want to enjoy the benefits of non-stick cooking while making dishes like rotis and dosas, a non-stick induction tawa would be the appropriate choice. On the other hand, if you're using a traditional stovetop, a regular non-stick tawa will serve your cooking needs.

Using and caring for a non-stick induction tawa properly is essential to ensure its longevity and maintain its non-stick properties. 

How To Use A Non-Stick Induction Tawa:

1. Preheating: Put the non-stick induction tawa on the induction hob so it can get hot and then bring it up to the desired temperature for cooking. It is recommended that the tawa not be heated on high settings because prolonged exposure to high heat can damage the non-stick coating.
2. Cooking: Once the tawa is preheated, you can start cooking. Apply a minimal amount of oil, ghee, or butter if necessary. Avoid using cooking sprays, as they can leave residue that's difficult to clean.
3. Cooking Utensils: Make sure to only use utensils that have been constructed of materials that won't damage the non-stick surface when you're cooking. To avoid scratching or otherwise damaging the coating, choose utensils made of wood, silicone, or nylon.
4. Cooking Temperatures: When it comes to non-stick surfaces, temperatures closer to the middle of the cooking range are usually sufficient. It is best to steer clear of utilising really high heat settings because doing so can cause the non-stick coating to become compromised.
5. Food Release: Non-stick surfaces allow easy food release. Gently flip or turn your food using appropriate utensils to prevent scratching.

Caring for a Non-Stick Induction Tawa:

1. Cleaning After Use: Before cleaning the tawa, wait till it has cooled down a little bit. To clean the surface, use a gentle dishcloth or sponge and dishwashing liquid of a low concentration. Steer clear of scouring pads that are too abrasive, since they may damage the non-stick coating.
2. Stains and Residue: Make a mixture using baking soda and water to remove residue or stains that are very tenacious. After applying the paste to the affected area and allowing it to set for a bit, clean the area gently with a soft cloth before removing the stain.
3. Avoid High Heat: The non-stick covering can be damaged by too much heat, so don't set your induction hob to a very high heat setting.
4. Stacking: Avoid stacking heavy cookware on top of your non-stick induction tawa to prevent scratching.
5. Storage: If you need to stack your cookware, place a soft cloth or paper towel between items to protect the non-stick surface.
6. Longevity: Over time, the non-stick coating may wear out. If you notice signs of peeling or significant damage, it's advisable to replace the tawa to ensure safe cooking.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your non-stick induction tawa remains effective, allowing you to enjoy convenient, non-stick cooking while using your induction cooktop. Always refer to the manufacturer's care instructions for your specific tawa to ensure proper usage and maintenance.