Cooking is a part of our day-to-day life, and if you are someone who loves to cook, you will know that your utensils are your prized possessions. One such very common and useful utensil in an Indian kitchen is a Kadai. It is used almost every day to cook curries, fry food, and more. They are available in various varieties, sizes, and types. However, the cast iron Kadai is the best type and has been used for ages in the Indian kitchen. So, if you are interested in buying the best cast iron Kadai, you have landed at the right place. Here, we will discuss everything that you must know before buying a cast iron Kadai. Also, we have listed down some of the best cast iron Kadai in India along with their pros and cons, just for you, so that you can make a better decision.
Well, you might wonder how hard it can be to buy the best cast iron Kadai in India. But there are many essential points which you should consider like dimensions, weight, durability, and other cookware specifications, which you will know in detail later in this article. First let us try to know more about cast iron Kadai, and its benefits.
Benefits of cooking food using a cast iron kadai
Most iron utensils can last for generations if maintained properly and seasoned on a regular basis. Besides, iron Kadai have been a constant presence in every Indian kitchen from the very first, and a variation of this utensil can be found in almost all cultures. A well-made and well-maintained cast iron Kadai can last you a few generations. Also, it has many benefits of its own. Some of them are mentioned below:
01. It is a chemical free non-stick cookware
A non-stick pan is made by using many harmful chemicals which get infused into your food. Whereas if we season a cast iron Kadai properly, you will notice that its surface automatically and naturally becomes just like a non-stick pan. Because of this your food won’t stick or burn, even if you use less butter, oil, etc. on the cooking surface. This will help you to eat healthily by reducing the fat content in your food.
02. It provides even cooking
A cast iron Kadai can be heated up quickly and naturally distributes the heat evenly to the entire surface of the Kadai. This helps in cooking your food evenly and provides the perfect texture according to your preferences.
03. It retains heat
All cast iron utensils including Kadai can retain heat for a long time, which ensures that the foods can stay warm for a long time. Besides, you don’t even have to take the trouble of reheating them and thus, you can save your energy and gas as well.
04.It is a versatile product
Basically, a cast iron Kadai is very versatile and can be used on different cooking surfaces like gas tops, ovens, grills, open fires, induction, and electric cooktops (if the base is flat). Besides, you can use it for different types of cooking techniques such as slow cooking, shallow frying, deep frying, sautéing, grilling, boiling, baking and even poaching eggs.
05. It is very cost-efficient and durable
If you love to cook and frequently shop for utensils, you will know that non-stick cookware or other cookware does cost a lot, and they don’t even last for long. Whereas, a cast iron Kadai is comparatively more cost-efficient and durable. You can easily buy a well-built, premium-quality cast iron Kadai at a reasonable price range. Also, this type of Kadai requires minimal maintenance and you can very easily clean it.
List of Best Iron Kadai in India
Now, after knowing all the benefits of using a cast iron Kadai for cooking, you must consider buying one. But the question is which one is going to be the best cast iron Kadai in India, which you can buy and probably pass it on to you next generation? Well, to find that you would have to do some research. But, we know you don’t have the time to do that, so we have. Thus, to help you out, we did precise research and product analysis on all the products that are available in the market and came up with a list of some of the best cast iron Kadai in India.
- Adds iron to aid deficiency
- Enhances flavor of dishes
- Can use on all stovetops
- Naturally nonstick over time
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Heavy at 3.3 kg
This Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Kadai from the Indus valley is a necessity in your kitchen. This kadai is made completely from 100% pure, natural, cast iron. There are no chemicals, coatings, or toxicity in it, so you always have the pure, healthiest versions of your favorite dishes.
Besides, food is ionized as much as possible, since this essential nutrient fights iron deficiency. Additionally, it enhances the flavor, taste and texture of dishes and delivers higher heat conduction and retention which is crucial for even cooking.
The kadai is a real multi-purpose cookware item that can be used on gas stoves, induction cooktops, in ovens, over campfires and so on. It is one of the most useful kitchen devices that avoid the use of non-stick pans, woks, and pots. Moreover, this pre-seasoned cast iron surface allows you to sear, sauté, and fry, cook a variety of recipes without sticking.
With proper care, this kadai will eventually become naturally non-stick, lasting as your money-saving cookware investment for years. It is much stronger than the pots and pans that break down and need replacement frequently.
Specifications:
- 100% natural cast iron
- Pre-seasoned
- Toxin-free, no chemical coatings
- Enriches food with iron
- Superior heat conduction and retention
- Multi-purpose
- Even heating
- Provides great sear
- Large cooking surface
- Oven and induction cooktop safe
- Not ideal for acidic foods
Amazon Basics Cast Iron Heavy Duty Pre-Seasoned Wok Pan is a worthy addition to any home cook’s cookware set. The wok is made from cast iron, which is heavy-duty. This provides heat retention and even heating. It is ideal to use for stir-frying, searing, baking, roasting or braising. Besides, it has a 14 inch diameter cooking area which is enough to cook family meals.
The product has a pre-seasoned cooking surface allowing you to start with it right from the box. Moreover, continue seasoning will also result in the development of a natural nonstick patina, which will improve the performance of the wok. The cast iron material requires certain specific care. Therefore, it is suggested to hand wash the product and do not put it in the dishwasher.
Moreover, it has two strong loop side handles that ensure a firm grip when transferring the wok from the stove, oven or table. It also works with all cooking surfaces including those that use induction cooktops. This kadai can be used on the stovetop that has a heat level of up to 500°F and in the oven.
Specifications:
- 14-inch cast iron wok pan
- Pre-seasoned cooking surface
- 2 loop side handles
- Compatible with all cooktops including induction
- Oven safe up to 500°F
- 6.2 liter capacity
- Heats quickly and evenly
- Excellent heat retention
- Toxin-free and no chemical coating
- Sturdy uni-body design
- Non-stick patina
- Lifetime warranty against defects
- Requires occasional re-seasoning
- Heavy
The Meyer Pre Seasoned Cast Iron Kadai is an original Indian cookware for perfect cooking of Indian curries, stir fries, bhunas, etc. This traditional cast iron kadai with flared sides and a small flat base is suitable for tossing and turning Indian dishes.
It is crafted from cast iron which makes it highly efficient in retaining and distributing heat. Besides, the kadhai warms rapidly and uniformly on all cook tops, including induction. It is also heavy-based, which keeps the heat for longer, reducing cooking time.
The meyer kadai is seasoned using 100% vegetable oil and you are set to start cooking as soon as it arrives. Natural non-stick patina allows for low-oil cooking and easy to clean off post-meal. It is toxin-free and enamel and chemical coat-free.
Moreover, it is built with a uni-body design and is sturdy to hold. There are no leaks as the screws and weld-free constructions are not possible. It is able to withstand high temperatures and on either side there are loop handles which provide a comfortable, no slip grip when tossing food. Besides, the product comes with a lifetime guarantee against defects.
Specifications:
- Made of pure cast iron
- Traditional kadai shape
- Pre-seasoned
- Shatter-resistant tempered glass lid
- Suitable for all cooktops Loop handles
- Provides authentic rustic cooking flavor
- Enriches food with iron
- Requires less oil for cooking
- Heat retention and distribution
- Sturdy construction
- Not as slick as chemically treated non-stick
Mr. Butler pre-seasoned cast iron Kadai could make a great addition to your kitchen utilities. Its pre-seasoned finish provides rust barrier and does not rust or stick. Moreover, the black surface becomes even smoother with use thus making the surface slippery which improves its non-stick properties and also simplifies cleaning.
The rounded shape with curved walls is suitable for stir-frying, sautéing, frying, etc. Sauces and curries will not be caught and burnt by the sides of the slopes. Additionally, the rigid structure is more effective in maintaining heat for the high heat cooking methods of the Indian dishes. Interestingly, after prolonged use the pan develops a unique natural patina which not only enhances the non-stick performance but also improves its aesthetic appeal. Moreover, it is a convenient and multipurpose cookware that can fit on all stoves up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.
Specifications:
- Durable pre-seasoned cast iron
- 1.5L capacity
- Non-stick patina surface
- Oven safe up to 500°F
- Gas stove and induction compatible
- Easy to clean
- Natural non-stick cooking
- Superior heat retention
- Versatile for searing, braising, simmering
- Durable construction
- Nutritional iron infusion
- Smaller capacity
The Vinol legacies pre-seasoned cast iron kadai is highly reliable and is made of good quality. The well-crafted 4.3 liter cast ire kadai with lid (26 cm diameter) of the tradition and innovation is for cooking the cooking that lasts.
The surface of the kadai is pre-seasoned with 100% vegetable oil twice right from the box and does not have any synthetic coatings or chemicals. Toxin-free craftsmanship that enables food to retain its native flavors is made possible through this chemical-free pre-seasoning. Besides heat conductivity, cast iron allows for heat distribution on kadai.
The kadali’s one-piece unibody design and the lack of screw or weld joints reflect unity and long-term elegance. Its seamless construction makes it smoother for induction stovetops and promises generations of reliable performance.
Cast iron does not only improve performance, but it also provides traces of iron which makes foods healthier.
Specifications:
- Pre-seasoned cast iron surface
- 4.3L capacity, 26cm diameter
- Unibody design
- Induction and gas stove compatible
- Lifetime warranty
- Even heating performance
- Rust and stain resistant
- Durable
- Oven safe up to 260°C
- Not non-stick
The Meyer Enamel Cast Iron Kadai will help you unleash your inner chef. Each item of food cooked in this kadai come out deliciously spiced and fragrant, as Meyer Housewares have fashioned it from durable cast iron with a porcelain enamel coating that
The special heat retention and even heating make sure that the rice and meat are cooked well and the vegetables are soft. Moreover, the black satin interior elegantly deters Indian spices stains which may otherwise be present in inferior cookware. This tough workhorse fearlessly sears sear meat and tempers whole spices. Its sturdy-shatter resistant lid and convenient side handles make it rather comfortable, though heavy-duty. Besides, this product is a metal utensil safe for all stove types, including induction, up to 260 degrees. It has the strong construction that can withstand the everyday heavy handling that is the norm in the preparation of the Indian dishes.
Specifications:
- 26cm grey enameled cast iron kadai
- Chip & crack resistant
- Black satin interior
- Ergonomic handles
- Shatter-resistant lid
- Induction base
- Even heat distribution
- Good heat retention
- Natural non-stick surface
- Durable
- Not ideal for acidic ingredients
The Bergner Elements 27cm Cast Iron Kadai is an awesome choice for a cook who wants to improve their Indian culinary abilities. Made from raw iron ore, this kadai distributes heat evenly, thus preventing hotspots that are notorious for uneven cooking of ingredients. Besides, this pre-seasoned cast iron has an ergonomic silicon-coated handle to prevent burns. It is a strong kadai weighing 3.62kg with a generous 3.8 litre capacity to accommodate several servings.
The product is a pre-seasoned cast iron vessel that forms a natural non-stick patina well suited for oil-free cooking. It has no synthetic coatings and is conditioned in 100% vegetable oil, which is safe and doesn’t contain any chemicals. Moreover, this induction-compatible kadai fries pakoras crisply and braises meats for curries in all modern stoves.
The uniform and rapid heating of this kadai also benefits searing and stir-frying. With proper care, Bergner Kadai will become naturally non-stick.
Specifications:
- 27cm cast iron kadai
- 3.8 liters capacity
- Pre-seasoned
- Ergonomic handle
- Comes with a glass lid
- Even heat distribution
- Good heat retention
- Imparts flavor
- Traditional cooking experience
- Challenging cleaning process
Zishta Cast Iron Kadai Combo set offers a reliable solution to cook different kinds of food. The set comprises three sizes of small, medium, and large meant for making sabjis and curry for deep frying snacks.
It is made from thick, quality cast iron that ensures fast cooking evenly while retaining the flavours. Besides, the classic round-bottomed design in conjunction with a solid iron body produces a suitable atmosphere for a real cooking affair – like the lazy turning of a golden-red tandoori chicken inside bubbling butter chicken gravy.
One noteworthy attribute of this Zishta combo set is its gas stove compatibility that makes it unnecessary to drag a coal sigri for an emergency meal. The kadai that boasts of 2L capacity is sufficient for three to four people while the other smaller ones are suitable for solo cooking. Obviously, the black color is associated with the cast iron cookware. However, these kadhais differ from some pidi kadhais that require careful handling, and they promise longevity when handled carefully.
Specifications:
- Combo of 3 sizes – small, medium, large
- Traditional round-bottom design
- Pre-seasoned
- Gas stove compatible
- Made from thick cast iron
- Even heat distribution
- Good durability
- Metal utensil safe
- Easy to clean
- Stylish traditional design
- Scratches can occur
- Not suitable for super high heat searing
The Hawkins Futura Cast Iron Kadhai is a valuable addition to any Indian kitchen. It is a simple pot of 2 litre kadhai with lid suitable for deep frying of snacks, cooking of curries, or simmering of gravies. The visual appeal is also fitting for traditional décor, with its traditional round bottom and dual loop handles.
It is made of thick cast iron and has tough black finishes which bring the conventional cooking benefits of iron to a modern kitchen. Seasoning naturally builds its own patina on the surface, which makes cooking healthy without oil and produces stunning charred crisp results. It heats evenly and is quite suitable for making pakoras or stir fry curries perfectly. Besides, it also assists in the fast kneading of dough because of its capacity to hold heat.
Moreover, it has surprisingly easy cleanup courtesy of Hawkins quality finishing. It offers long-term rust resistance with normal care. It comes with a 5-year warranty for manufacturer defects, promising to be a cooking vessel to trust for years.
Specifications:
- 2 litre capacity
- Cast iron construction
- Naturally non-stick surface
- Glass lid included
- Compatible with induction, gas, electric, ceramic
- Pre-seasoned
- 5mm thick base
- 5 year warranty
- Extremely durable construction
- Versatile
- Glass lids to monitor food
- Lifetime warranty
- Not suitable for all cooktops
The CountryCook Cast Iron Kadai and Frying Pans Combo is a good add-on for any home cook who is looking to purchase sturdy and versatile cookware for his or her kitchen. The pack comes with two frying pans, which are good for eggs, pancakes and everything else.
Made up of pre-seasoned cast iron, the CountryCook set promises lifetime durability, which the material is known for its heat retention property. Besides, the glass lids that accompany it can be used to monitor the cooking process as well as retain heat and moisture.
The cookware being 100% vegetable oil seasoned cooking surface means that it is ready as it comes out of the box with a natural non-stick patina. Additionally, the enamel free, non-toxic iron can leach beneficial iron into dishes gradually. Moreover, the silicone handle grips help the 26cm pans to be held cool and comfortably.
The smooth cast iron heats precisely and effectively distributing heat equally on grills, stoves or induction cooktops. Besides, it also allows for various cooking methods beyond the typical Indian dishes that the kadai is intended for. The brand offers a lifetime warranty if the durability and performance quality ever fail.
Specifications:
- 26cm set: Kadai, 2 frying pans, 3 glass lids, pan holders, silicone grip
- Pre-seasoned cast iron
- Natural non-stick patina
- Even heat distribution
Top Cast Iron Kadai in India compared:
| Product Name | Size (Diameter) | Capacity | Weight | Compatibility | Additional Features |
| Indus Valley Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Kadai | 25cm/9.8inch | 3.2L | 3.3kg | Induction & Gas | Naturally Nonstick, Toxin-Free |
| Amazon Basics Cast Iron Wok Pan | 14 Inch | 6.2L | 1.9kg | Smooth Surface Induction, Gas | Heavy Duty, Pre-Seasoned |
| Meyer Pre Seasoned Cast Iron Kadai | 26cm | 3 Liters | 2.42kg | Gas Stove & Induction | Heavy Base, Lid Included |
| Mr. Butler Natural Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Kadai | 9 Inch | 1.5 L | 1.9kg | Induction & Gas | Easy to Clean, Warranty |
| Vinod Legacy Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Kadai | 26 cm | 4.3 L | 3.58 kg | Induction & Gas | Lid Included |
| Meyer Enamel Cast Iron Kadai | 26cm | Not Specified | 3 kg | Induction | Enameled, Lid Included |
| Bergner Elements Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Kadai | 27 cm | 3.8 Litres | 3.62kg | Induction | Glass Lid Included |
| Zishta Pre-seasoned Handcrafted Cast Iron Kadai Combo | Multiple Sizes | Multiple Capacities | Multiple Weights | Gas Stovetop | Set of 3 Kadhai in Different Sizes |
| Hawkins Futura 2 Litre Cast Iron Kadhai | 33.2 x 24 x 13.3 Cm | 2 Litres | 2.89kg | Smooth Surface Induction, Gas, Smooth Surface Non Induction, Electric Coil | Nonstick, Glass Lid Included |
| CountryCook Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Kadai & 2 Frying Pans Combo | 26 cms | Multiple Capacities | Multiple Weights | Induction | Combo Set, Glass Lid Included |
Your preferences, cooking needs, and financial considerations may determine what you may consider to be the “best” choice. Although other options have their special features and pros and cons, if examined without bias, the Meyer Pre Seasoned Cast Iron Kadai seems like a superior overall. Pure cast iron makes it durable and a good heat retainer. In addition, it is seasoned with 100% vegetable oil before use and is non-stick coated without use of synthetic coatings or chemicals.
How To Choose The Best Cast Iron Kadai In India: A Buying Guide?
Material and Construction: Check thickness and quality construction for durability and heat retention. Go for the one that is made of 100% natural material, has enamel-coated, or pre-seasoned. Indus Valley Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Kadai can be a great consideration in this case. It is made of 100% natural cast iron without any chemical coatings, ensuring a strong structure. It is also well constructed to ensure it evenly heats and retains the heat, necessary features for good cast iron cookware.
Cooking Surface and Capacity: Consider the size options available to match various cooking demands. Check if there is enough space for different styles of cooking and quantities in the kadai. Zishta Pre-seasoned Handcrafted Cast Iron Kadai Combo is versatile with different sizes for different cooking requirement.
Preparation and Handling: Ensure that you check if the kadai is pre-seasoned or needs some seasoning before using it. Besides, features like lids, handles or additional accessories for ease of use should be considered as well. CountryCook Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Kadai & 2 Frying Pans Combo set has different frying pans and glass lids, ideal for different cooking needs. The other accessories like silicone handle grips and holders help in handling the pot while cooking.
Compatibility and Versatility: Check for the compatibility of the kadai with various cooktops such as gas burners, induction, oven or camp fire. Determine whether it is appropriate for different ways of cooking, such as stir-frying, roasting, baking, or slow cooking. Meyer Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Kadai or the Hawkins Futura 2 Litre Cast Iron Kadai is ideal for multiple cooktops and cooking methods.
Toxin-Free and Health Benefits: Select a kadai that do not contain chemicals, coatings, and toxins for healthy cooking. However, iron enrichment in food can be considered as a health benefit. The Indus Valley Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Kadai or the Vinod Legacy Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Kadai might be a perfect option. Their material is free of toxins and also iron-enriching.
Maintenance and Cleaning: Be sure to read the care instructions – hand wash only, dishwasher safe or specific cleaning methods. Unlike unseasoned cast iron cookware, Mr. Butler Natural Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Kadai/Wok is non-stick and easy to clean, thus making maintenance much more straightforward.
Warranty and Customer Ratings: Note the duration of warranty provided by the manufacture for defect or performance failure. We suggest checking for customer ratings and select the one that offers great warranty policy and high customer ratings. In that case, you can consider buying the CountryCook Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Kadai & 2 Frying Pans Combo or the Meyer Enamel Cast Iron Kadai which are made from durable materials, are loved by the users and comes with lifetime warranty.
Well, we understood that a good cast iron Kadai is convenient, versatile, durable, and compatible with multiple cooktops. To ensure you are making the right purchase, our experts spent weeks testing all the worthy options. We listed down only those products which could stand tall through our tough examining process. You can select one according to your preference and merge the goodness of nature and modern features for your convenience.
Also read,
