How do soapstone and clayware benefit us?
The Benefits of Soapstone (Kalchatti) and Clayware (Earthenware) for Your Kitchen: A Natural Choice with 80’s Cookware
In an age of non-stick pans and modern gadgets, traditional cookware like soapstone (Kalchatti) and clayware (Earthenware) is making a strong comeback. These natural materials have been trusted for centuries, known for their health benefits, superior cooking performance, and sustainable nature. At 80’s Cookware, we offer a wide range of products that include not just Kalchatti pots and clay pots but also unique items like curd setters, vastu pooja sets, red and black clay cookware varieties, and more. This blog explores how these items can be used in your kitchen, along with their specific benefits and best-suited places for use.
If you’re looking to embrace the art of traditional cooking while making your kitchen more eco-friendly, read on to discover why these cookware options are a must-have!
1. Superior Heat Retention and Even Cooking
Soapstone (Kalchatti) Cookware:
Soapstone cookware, traditionally known as Kalchatti, is a popular choice for cooking curries, sambhar, and stews because of its excellent heat retention and even cooking properties. Kalchatti pots can be used on gas stoves or induction cooktops, making them versatile for modern kitchens. Their ability to hold heat ensures that your food remains warm long after cooking, making them perfect for serving hot dishes during family gatherings.
Where to Use:
- Kitchen Stove and Oven: Ideal for slow-cooking dishes like sambhar, rasam, or even some desserts.
- Dining Table: Due to its heat retention, Kalchatti can serve as a warming dish for family meals.
- Traditional Restaurants or Homes with Rustic Decor: Adds a touch of authenticity to the ambiance.
Mortar and Pestle:
A mortar and pestle made from soapstone is perfect for grinding spices, herbs, and even for making pastes. It’s an essential tool for any kitchen that values the aroma of freshly ground spices.
Where to Use:
- Kitchen Countertop: For daily spice grinding.
- Herb Gardens: A decorative yet functional tool for grinding fresh herbs.
Clayware (Earthenware):
Red Clay Cooking Pots, Red Curry/Savoury pots, and Red Clay Kadai are known for enhancing the natural flavor of food. The porous nature of clay allows moisture and heat to circulate evenly, making it perfect for cooking rice, curries, and delicate gravies. Black Clay Meen Chatti is ideal for cooking traditional fish curries due to its ability to retain the moisture and subtle flavors of fish.
Where to Use:
- Home Kitchens: For making traditional Indian dishes like meen curry, rasam, or mutton biryani.
- Rustic Cafes or Restaurants: As cooking and serving pots for an authentic presentation.
Explore our Soapstone Cookware Collection and Clayware Collection for premium products that elevate your cooking.
2. Health Benefits of Cooking with Natural Materials
Soapstone (Kalchatti) Cookware:
Unlike modern cookware that might contain harmful chemicals, Kalchatti cookware is completely natural and free from toxins. Soapstone’s non-reactive nature ensures that acidic ingredients don’t interact with the surface, keeping your food pure and safe. It is an excellent choice for people looking to minimize their exposure to synthetic materials.
Curd Setter:
Curd setters made from soapstone are great for preparing homemade yogurt. The alkaline nature of soapstone balances the acidity of curd, resulting in a smooth and delicious texture.
Where to Use:
- Refrigerator: To store curd after setting.
- Dining Table: Use as a serving bowl.
Clayware (Earthenware):
Red and Black Clay Cookware are packed with health benefits. The clay adds essential minerals like calcium, iron, and magnesium to your food, improving its nutritional profile. Cooking in these pots is also believed to improve digestion and overall health.
- Red Clay cooking Pot: Excellent for cooking spicy gravies, as clay neutralizes the acidity of tomatoes and chilies.
- Red Clay Kadai: Excellent for cooking crispy fries, as the clay naturally neutral.
- Black Clay Rasam Pot: Ideal for making tangy rasams and tamarind-based curries, as black clay balances the sourness perfectly.
Where to Use:
- Kitchen Countertop: For cooking curries, gravies, and rice dishes.
- Dining Table: Serve directly from the pot to keep food warm.
3. Sustainability and Environmental Benefits
Choosing soapstone cookware and clay cookware is a step towards a more sustainable kitchen. Unlike modern cookware that often contains synthetic coatings or metals, soapstone and clay are 100% natural and biodegradable.
Vastu Pooja Set:
The Vastu Pooja Set made from soapstone is traditionally used for spiritual and ceremonial purposes. Soapstone’s calming properties are believed to enhance the energy of the space, making it perfect for religious rituals and vastu compliance.
Where to Use:
- Pooja Rooms: For daily rituals and special occasions.
- Vastu Corrections: Place in specific areas of your home to balance energies.
Black Clay Cookware (Black Kadai, Black Uruli with Lid, Black Meen Chatti):
Black clay cookware is naturally fired, without any synthetic glazes, making it a sustainable option. It’s long-lasting and, if properly cared for, can be handed down through generations.
Where to Use:
- Home Kitchens: For daily cooking.
- Gift Shops or Heritage Kitchens: As unique, handcrafted pieces.
Discover our Eco-Friendly Soapstone Cookware and Sustainable Clayware Pots to make your kitchen greener.
4. Durability and Longevity
Both soapstone (Kalchatti) and clayware are known for their durability. Soapstone is naturally resistant to cracking and chipping, while clay cookware, when properly seasoned and handled, can last for many years.
Red Clay Uruli and Black Uruli with Lid:
Urulis are traditional pots that add an aesthetic appeal to your kitchen while offering a functional role. They are perfect for making sweet dishes like payasam or for deep-frying snacks.
Where to Use:
- Kitchen Stove: As a versatile cooking pot.
- Home Decor: Can also be used as a decorative piece with floating flowers.
Browse our Durable Soapstone Cookware and Long-Lasting Clayware Options to add quality pieces to your kitchen.
5. Versatility in the Kitchen
From red clay kadai for stir-fries to black clay meen chatti for fish curries, these products are versatile enough to suit any cooking style. You can use them on gas stoves, in ovens, and even for serving, making them a great all-in-one solution for busy kitchens.
Where to Use:
- Home Kitchens: For preparing and serving.
- Restaurants: For a rustic presentation.
Explore our Versatile Soapstone Collection and Multi-Use Clayware Cookware for flexible options that fit every recipe.
Final Thoughts: Traditional Cookware for Modern Kitchens
At 80’s Cookware, we believe in preserving the art of traditional cooking. Whether you're looking for a soapstone Kalchatti, a red clay curry pot, or a black clay meen chatti, our extensive collection is designed to bring the best of nature to your kitchen. Make the switch today and experience the difference that high-quality, handcrafted cookware can make.
Our best-selling items showcase the timeless beauty and utility of traditional cookware. Our popular products include:
- Soapstone Cookware (Kalchatti): Perfect for slow-cooking and retaining heat. Click Here
- Curd Setter (700ml): Ideal for making creamy homemade yogurt, favored for its health benefits.. Click Here
- Mortar and Pestle (5"): Essential for grinding spices and herbs to enhance your dishes' flavors. Click Here
- Meen Clay Chatti: Perfect for cooking traditional fish curries. Click Here
- Black Uruli with Lid: Great for preparing a variety of dishes while keeping them warm. Click Here
- Black Rasam Pot: Ideal for making tangy rasam, enhancing the flavors. Click Here
- Red Clay Curry Pot: Excellent for cooking rich, flavorful curries. Click Here
- Red Clay Cooking Pot: Versatile for various cooking needs. Click Here
- Red and Black Kadai: Perfect for frying and sautéing, retaining the natural taste of ingredients. Click Here For Red Kadai, Click Here For Black Kadai.
Our Soapstone Cookware XL (Kalchatti), Curd Setter (700ml), and Mortar and Pestle (5 inch) have also seen great success overseas, appealing to customers who value the health and taste benefits of traditional cooking methods. We're proud to share that our products have received enthusiastic feedback from customers in Singapore and Canada, highlighting their appreciation for the quality and effectiveness of our cookware.