Tawa

A flat or very slightly concave griddle, used primarily for cooking roti, chapati, and paratha, and for dry-roasting spices.

Material & Construction

Traditionally cast iron or heavy rolled steel; modern nonstick versions are also common, particularly for paratha.

Traditional Uses

Cooking flatbreads (roti, chapati, paratha) and dry-roasting whole spices before grinding.

Modern Availability / Equivalents

Extremely widely available; a standard flat griddle or heavy skillet serves a broadly similar function, though a proper cast iron tawa's heat retention is considered superior for even bread cooking.

Care & Maintenance

Season bare cast iron and steel versions; clean while warm and apply a light oil coating between uses.