Dosas, a staple in South Indian cuisine, are delicious, crispy, and versatile flatbreads made from fermented rice and lentil batter. Perfecting the art of making dosas requires practice, persistence, and most importantly, the right pan. The pan plays a crucial role in achieving the desired texture and even cooking of the dosa. In this article, we will discuss the best pans to make dosas at home and the factors to consider when choosing a pan.
Traditionally, dosas were made on cast iron griddles or flat stone surfaces, which ensured an even distribution of heat while cooking. However, modern cookware offers various materials that are perfect for making the ideal dosa – non-stick pans, anodized aluminum pans, or the traditional cast iron pans. Each type has its unique advantages, and choosing the right one primarily depends on your cooking style, comfort, and experience with making dosas.
When selecting a pan for making dosas, some essential factors to consider are the size, thickness, and material. A larger pan facilitates spreading the batter for a thin and crispy dosa, and a thicker bottom ensures uniform heat distribution, preventing the dosa from burning or sticking to the pan. Non-stick and anodized aluminum pans are useful for easy flipping and require less oil. However, a well-seasoned cast iron pan can last for generations and provide the perfect flavor and texture that many dosa lovers swear by.
After thorough research and testing, I have narrowed down the top pans suitable for making delicious dosas with ease. Read on to find the best one for your needs and get ready to master the art of dosa-making!
Best Pans for Making Dosas
I’ve compiled a list of the best pans to help you make delicious dosas with ease. Check out these top products to elevate your dosa-making experience.
A fantastic choice for making dosas, with a top-notch non-stick surface and compatibility with all cooktops.
Pros
Swiss ILAG nonstick granite coating
Suitable for all stovetops, including induction
Lightweight with a heat-resistant handle
Cons
Assembly required for the handle
Could be a bit larger
Oven safe only up to 302°F
I recently tried the SENSARTE Nonstick Crepe Pan for making dosas, and I was quite impressed. The Swiss ILAG nonstick granite coating not only provides a safe and healthy cooking surface but also makes dosas come out perfectly without sticking to the pan. The pan heats up quickly and evenly, ensuring a well-cooked dosa every time.
One of the things I love about this crepe pan is its compatibility with all types of stovetops, including induction. It has a high magnetic conductive stainless steel base, which makes it versatile in any kitchen. Moreover, the pan is lightweight, weighing just 2lbs, and features a heat-resistant Bakelite handle that stays cool while cooking – which I found beneficial when flipping my dosas.
However, there are a couple of drawbacks too. Firstly, the handle needs to be assembled, which may not be everyone’s preference. Secondly, while this 10-inch pan works well for small to medium-sized dosas, it could be a tad larger for those who prefer larger dosas. Lastly, it’s oven safe only up to 302°F, so keep that in mind if you plan to use it in the oven.
Overall, the SENSARTE Nonstick Crepe Pan provides a reliable and efficient dosa-making experience, despite the minor cons. If you’re looking for a high-quality pan that’s easy to handle and is compatible with various cooktops, I recommend giving this pan a shot.
Compatible with various heat sources including induction, gas, and electric
Cons
Handle may feel a bit loose
Some users report problems with black residue
Hand wash only recommended
I recently tried out the CAINFY Nonstick Crepe Pan, and I must say, it’s fantastic for making dosas. The 11-inch diameter gives plenty of space, and its 0.6-inch depth ensures that the batter doesn’t spill over the edges.
The die-cast aluminum construction heats up quickly and distributes heat evenly across the surface of the pan. I noticed that my dosas cooked faster and more uniformly, giving me that perfect golden-brown texture.
One of the standout features of this CAINFY pan is its 3-layer non-stick coating, which is free of harmful chemicals like PTFE, PFOA, lead, and cadmium. With minimal oil, my dosas slid right off the pan and onto the plate. The heat-resistant bakelite handle stayed cool to the touch, making it easy to maneuver while cooking.
However, there are a couple of drawbacks to the CAINFY Nonstick Crepe Pan. Some users have reported issues with a black residue forming on the pan, which is a concern but it did not happen in my experience. Additionally, the handle might require tightening after extended use.
All in all, the CAINFY Nonstick Crepe Pan delivers on its promise as a reliable and versatile pan for making dosas. Its quick heating and even heat distribution, combined with the non-stick coating and compatibility with various heat sources, make it a solid option for those looking to perfect their dosa-making skills. Just be prepared to give the handle a little extra attention and follow care instructions as needed.
I recommend the YADNESH Dosa Pan for its versatility, easy-to-use design, and convenient non-stick surface, great for all-round crepe and pancake lovers.
Pros
Versatile for multiple dishes
Non-stick coating for easy use
Flat bottom with concentric grooves for even heating
Cons
May require careful cleaning to prevent scratches
Plastic handle may feel less sturdy
Bright red paint on the bottom is different from the picture
I recently cooked with the YADNESH Dosa Pan and found it to be a reliable kitchen companion. The wide and flat surface was perfect for making dosas and pancakes while the non-stick coating ensured minimal oil use, keeping my meals on the healthier side.
In addition, the pan features concentric grooves on the bottom which provide consistent and even heat distribution across the entire surface. This helped in avoiding hot spots and made my dosas, uttapams, and even chapatis cook uniformly.
However, one minor issue I encountered with the product was the bright red paint on the bottom of the pan. It’s different from the picture provided and could potentially melt during cooking, as some users mentioned. Extra caution when handling and cleaning the product is also advised since using metal or sharp cleaning tools may scratch the surface of the non-stick coating.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the YADNESH Dosa Pan proved to be a great addition to my kitchen, and I enjoyed using it for a variety of dishes. The comfortable Bakelite handle was easy to grip and stayed cool during cooking, ensuring a safe experience. For those looking to add a versatile and functional non-stick pan to their cookware collection, this product is worth considering.
The DBY Non-Stick Roti Pan Chapati Tawa offers a versatile and convenient solution for making various dishes, but may not be the most durable option.
Pros
Fast and even heat conductivity
Suitable for making multiple dishes
Comfortable Bakelite handle for easy handling
Cons
Durability concerns
Potential for scratches and wear
Not dishwasher safe
I recently got my hands on the DBY Non-Stick Roti Pan Chapati Tawa, and I must say, it made preparing dishes like dosas, rotis, and parathas a breeze! The pan heats quickly and distributes heat evenly, ensuring perfectly cooked meals every time.
One of the standout features of this Tawa is its non-stick coating, allowing me to cook with minimal oil or butter, ideal for health-conscious individuals. I also loved the Bakelite handle, which remained cool to the touch and provided a comfortable grip for flipping and lifting the pan.
However, I did notice a few drawbacks to this product. The pan’s durability may be a concern, as some users reported receiving it with scratches or damages. Additionally, the Tawa is not dishwasher safe, so it requires handwashing.
Despite these shortcomings, the DBY Non-Stick Roti Pan Chapati Tawa offers a multifunctional cooking experience, allowing me to prepare an array of dishes with ease. While it may not be the most durable choice, it’s worth considering if you’re looking for a versatile and easy-to-use pan for making dosas and other flatbreads.
A great addition to your kitchen for making perfect dosas and crepes with ease and finesse.
Pros
Made with 100% natural beech wood
Suitable for any crepe pan or dosa pan
Easy flipping with thin edge
Cons
Requires practice for best results
Could be difficult to assemble
Not dishwasher safe
The Prowithlin 4 Piece Crepe Set caught my attention as I was searching for the perfect tool to make dosas and crepes at home. The set comes with a 12″ crepe spatula and a 4.7″ crepe spreader made of 100% natural beech wood, ensuring a safe and environmentally friendly experience.
Having used this set myself, I must say that the spatula’s thin edge made a significant difference in flipping both small and large crepes and dosas. My friends were quite impressed with my traditional French crepe making skills. The 4.7″ crepe spreader works with any pan size, ensuring that your dosa or crepe is evenly spread, thin, and non-sticky.
However, I have to admit that it took some practice to achieve perfection. The assembling of the set could be a bit tricky initially but gets easier with time. It’s essential to be gentle when using the spreader so as not to damage the crepe or dosa. The set is not dishwasher safe, so handwashing is required, albeit it’s relatively easy to clean.
Overall, the Prowithlin 4 Piece Crepe Set makes an excellent addition to any kitchen, especially for those who enjoy making dosas and crepes. It’s an affordable option that requires a little practice and patience but will certainly impress your friends and family with your culinary skills!
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best pan for making dosas, there are a few factors I consider to make an informed decision. To ensure that I make a perfect, crispy dosa each time, I look for these features:
Material: The material of the pan plays a crucial role in its performance. Non-stick pans tend to be the preferable choice for dosa-making because they require less oil and are easy to clean. Conversely, cast iron pans also work well but require proper seasoning before giving the optimal result.
Size: The size of the pan should be appropriate for the dosas I want to make. Larger pans provide enough surface area to make a generously sized dosa, while smaller pans are more manageable and are suitable for smaller dosas.
Even Heat Distribution: For the perfect golden-brown dosa, the pan needs to distribute heat evenly across the surface. Pans made from materials like cast iron and heavy-gauge aluminum are known for their efficient heat distribution.
Handle: My choice of a pan with a comfortable, long handle is essential for easy maneuvering of the pan, particularly when flipping or spreading the batter. An insulated handle is a bonus, so I don’t have to worry about it getting too hot while cooking.
Factors to consider:
Material
Size
Even heat distribution
Comfortable handle
Price Range
While I understand that high-quality pans often come with a higher price tag, it’s essential to strike a balance between quality and budget. There are several affordable options available that offer great results for dosa-making. It’s important to assess my needs, preferences, and budget before investing in the perfect pan.
In conclusion, when choosing the best pan for making dosas, it’s important to pay attention to the material, size, heat distribution, and handle. Considering my budget and preferences will help me find a pan that is suitable for my dosa-making experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top dosa pans available?
There are several excellent dosa pans available on the market. Some popular ones include Hawkins Futura Non-Stick Dosa Tawa, Prestige Omega Deluxe Granite Dosa Tawa, and the Lodge Cast Iron Griddle.
Which non-stick tawa is ideal for making dosas?
Non-stick tawas, like the Hawkins Futura Non-Stick Dosa Tawa or the Prestige Omega Deluxe Granite Dosa Tawa, are great for making dosas. They require less oil and are easier to clean as the batter doesn’t stick to the surface.
How does a cast iron tawa compare to others for dosa making?
Cast iron tawas, such as the Lodge Cast Iron Griddle, are top-notch for dosa making. They have great heat retention and even heat distribution, which ensures uniform cooking. However, they may require initial seasoning and regular maintenance to maintain their non-stick properties.
What factors should I consider when buying a dosa pan?
When choosing a dosa pan, consider its material (non-stick versus cast iron), size, and heat distribution. Also, consider the handle and how comfortable and safe it is to use, as well as how easy the pan is to clean.
Can I use the same tawa for roti and dosa?
Yes, you can use the same tawa for both rotis and dosas. However, since dosas require a larger, flatter surface area for spreading the batter, it’s recommended to have a dedicated tawa specifically for dosas if possible.
Which dosa tawas are highly rated on Amazon?
On Amazon, some highly-rated dosa tawas include the Hawkins Futura Non-Stick Dosa Tawa and the Lodge Cast Iron Griddle. Keep in mind these ratings are subject to change and always read customer reviews to ensure you’re making the best choice for your needs.
Making Dosas: 3 Best Tawas (Tavas) or Pans
These options are sure to be a hit. So, gather your family and friends and enjoy. Let us know your thoughts!
Cassie brings decades of experience to the Kitchen Community. She is a noted chef and avid gardener. Her new book "Healthy Eating Through the Garden" will be released shortly. When not writing or speaking about food and gardens Cassie can be found puttering around farmer's markets and greenhouses looking for the next great idea.
