10 Kitchen Utensils Every Indian Home Needs (and What to Pay)
Setting up a new kitchen or upgrading an old one? These 10 utensils do most of the work in an Indian kitchen.
Whether you are setting up your first kitchen or replacing old utensils, it helps to know what you actually need. These ten items cover almost all everyday Indian cooking.
1. A heavy kadai
For sabzi, gravies and deep frying. A triply stainless steel kadai heats evenly and has no coating to wear off, while an iron kadhai is unbeatable for puris and pakoras. Expect to pay ₹550–₹1,500.
2. A cast iron or non-stick tawa
Cast iron makes the crispiest dosas and rotis and lasts a lifetime. Non-stick needs less oil but must be handled gently.
3. A masala dabba
A steel spice box with seven bowls keeps your daily spices next to the stove. Worth every rupee at around ₹400–₹500.
4. A vegetable chopper
A pull-cord chopper turns onion chopping into a 20-second job — no tears.
5. Silicone or wooden spatulas
If you own any non-stick pan, use silicone or neem wood tools. Metal spoons scratch the coating.
6. A good grater
A four-sided steel grater handles paneer, ginger, vegetables and lemon zest.
7. Knives and a chopping board
A chef knife, a small paring knife and a peeler are all most families need.
8. Airtight jars
Glass jars keep dals, rice and snacks fresh and insect-free.
9. A steel tiffin
For office and school lunches — healthier than plastic for hot food.
10. A copper bottle
A traditional favourite for drinking water, and it looks great on the dining table.
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