Hawkins Futura 5 Litre Cook n Serve Handi, Hard Anodised Biryani Handi with Glass Lid, Saucepan, Sauce Pan, Black (ACH50G)

The Hawkins Futura 5 Litre Cook n Serve Handi (ACH50G)

is a premium kitchen essential designed for cooking and serving. It is part of the Futura range, known for its high-quality hard-anodized cookware. This handi combines functionality, durability, and elegance, making it ideal for preparing and presenting a variety of dishes. Its unique design caters to both traditional and modern cooking needs.

Features and Design

1. Large Capacity

With a capacity of 5 liters, the handi is suitable for preparing large quantities of food, making it perfect for family meals, gatherings, and festive occasions. It is especially well-suited for dishes that require slow cooking or layering, such as biryanis and pilafs.

2. Material – Hard Anodized Aluminum

The handi is constructed from hard-anodized aluminum, a material that is twice as hard as stainless steel. This ensures superior durability and resistance to warping, scratches, and corrosion.
The hard-anodized surface is non-toxic and non-reactive, making it safe for cooking a wide range of ingredients, including acidic ones like tomatoes, vinegar, and citrus.

3. Heat Efficiency

The hard-anodized material provides excellent heat conduction, ensuring even and consistent cooking. This minimizes hot spots and reduces the risk of burning or unevenly cooked food, which is crucial for delicate recipes like biryani.

4. Glass Lid with Steam Vent

The handi comes with a glass lid that allows you to monitor your food without lifting the lid and losing heat or moisture.
The lid features a steam vent, which helps release excess pressure and prevents overboiling while maintaining the desired level of moisture in the dish.

5. Traditional Handi Shape

The handi’s shape is inspired by traditional Indian cookware, featuring a wide bottom and rounded sides. This design is ideal for slow cooking and enhances the blending of flavors, making it perfect for biryanis, stews, and curries.

6. Ergonomic Handles

The handi is equipped with sturdy, stay-cool handles that provide a comfortable grip for safe and easy handling during cooking or serving.

7. Elegant Black Finish

The hard-anodized black finish gives the handi a sleek and modern look. Its aesthetic appeal makes it suitable for direct serving on the dining table, enhancing the presentation of your meals.

Applications

1. Traditional Indian Dishes

The handi is specially designed for preparing Indian recipes like biryanis, dals, and curries, where slow cooking is essential to enhance flavors.

2. Multi-Cuisine Use

It is equally effective for Western dishes like casseroles, risottos, and pasta, as well as Middle Eastern delicacies like pilafs and tagines.

3. Serving in Style

Its elegant design allows it to double as a serving dish, eliminating the need for transferring food to another container. The black finish adds sophistication to your dining table.

Usage Tips

1. Preheating

Always preheat the handi on low to medium heat before adding ingredients. This helps in even cooking and prevents food from sticking to the surface.

2. Layering for Biryani

When making biryani, layer the rice and meat or vegetables evenly to ensure proper cooking. Use the glass lid to monitor the cooking process without disturbing the layers.

3. Cleaning and Care

Allow the handi to cool before washing to avoid warping.
Use mild soap and a soft sponge to clean the surface. Avoid abrasive scrubbers to maintain the finish.
Do not use the handi in a dishwasher as it is designed for manual cleaning.

4. Storage

Store the handi in a dry place to avoid water stains. If stacking with other cookware, use a soft cloth or paper towel between items to prevent scratches.