Indus Valley Cast Iron Fry Pan/Skillet, Pre-seasoned, Nonstick, 100% Pure, Toxin-free, Induction, 26.2cm, 1.8L, 2.3kg

Indus Valley Cast Iron Fry Pan/Skillet – A Deep Dive into Traditional Excellence

The Indus Valley Cast Iron Fry Pan/Skillet is a product that blends tradition with modern-day utility. Measuring 26.2 cm in diameter, with a capacity of 1.8 litres and weighing 2.3 kg, this pre-seasoned, naturally nonstick fry pan is a kitchen essential for those who value healthy cooking, durability, and authentic flavors.

Build and Design

The Indus Valley fry pan is crafted from 100% pure cast iron, with no chemical coating or artificial finishes. This raw, earthy cookware is built for durability and longevity. Its 2.3 kg weight gives it a sturdy feel, ensuring it retains heat evenly and stays stable on any cooktop, including induction, gas, ceramic, and electric stoves. The depth and volume (1.8L) make it ideal not only for shallow frying but also for sautéing, roasting, and even baking.

The pan’s design includes a thick base that enhances heat distribution and retention, reducing the need for frequent stirring and promoting even cooking. Its handle is made from cast iron too, offering a seamless, one-piece structure that eliminates weak points common in riveted or jointed cookware.

Pre-Seasoned and Naturally Nonstick

One of the standout features of this skillet is its pre-seasoning with natural oils. This initial treatment helps create a naturally nonstick surface that improves with use. Unlike synthetic nonstick pans that can degrade over time and leach harmful substances when overheated, this cast iron pan becomes more efficient and safer the more you cook with it.

The seasoning acts as a protective layer against rust and provides a surface that allows food to release easily. With regular oiling and proper maintenance, the skillet develops a rich black patina—a sign of a well-used and seasoned pan that enhances its nonstick ability.

Health Benefits

Cooking in cast iron has unique nutritional benefits. Unlike stainless steel or nonstick pans, cast iron cookware can release small amounts of iron into food, which is especially beneficial for people with iron deficiencies. There are no toxins, PTFE, PFOA, or synthetic chemicals in this pan, making it a safer and healthier choice.

The heavy-duty nature of cast iron also allows for oil-free or low-oil cooking, making it ideal for fitness enthusiasts and people seeking healthier cooking alternatives.

Versatility in Cooking

This fry pan isn’t limited to one style of cooking. Its size and depth make it suitable for a range of dishes such as:

• Indian dishes like paneer tikka, tandoori veggies, and dosa.

• Western meals like omelets, frittatas, grilled sandwiches, and seared meats.

• Deep and shallow frying of pakoras, cutlets, and even small quantities of biryani.

• Roasting spices, nuts, and seeds with uniform heat.

It is also oven-safe (without plastic parts), allowing home chefs to transfer it from stovetop to oven to finish cooking or for baking dishes like cornbread and cobblers.

Induction and Heat Compatibility

Unlike traditional cast iron pans that are only gas compatible, this Indus Valley model is induction-friendly, thanks to its flat, magnetized base. This makes it suitable for modern kitchens, offering users the freedom to use it on a variety of heat sources without changing cookware. The pan can handle high-temperature cooking such as searing and deep frying, which many nonstick pans cannot withstand without degradation.

Sustainability and Longevity

Cast iron cookware is known to last for generations. This pan, with its robust construction and natural material, is a sustainable alternative to modern disposable cookware. It reduces the need for frequent replacements, thereby cutting down waste and environmental impact. Many users pass cast iron cookware down as family heirlooms, attesting to their timeless value.

Moreover, The Indus Valley is a brand known for advocating sustainable, toxin-free cookware, and this pan aligns perfectly with that ethos.

Maintenance and Care Tips

While cast iron pans require slightly more care than modern nonstick cookware, the rewards in terms of durability and cooking quality are worth it. Here are a few basic care instructions:

1. Cleaning:

   • Avoid using soap or harsh detergents. Instead, wipe with a soft cloth or scrub with salt and warm water.

   • Do not soak in water for long durations.

2. Drying:

   • Always dry the pan immediately after washing to prevent rusting.

   • You can place it on low flame to ensure complete moisture removal.

3. Seasoning:

   • Apply a thin layer of cooking oil to the surface after each use.

   • For deeper seasoning, heat the pan with a coat of oil until it begins to smoke, then cool and store.

4. storage:

   • Store in a dry place.

   • Place a paper towel between pans if stacking to absorb moisture and avoid scratches.

With proper maintenance, the nonstick quality of the pan improves, and the risk of rusting or sticking diminishes significantly.