Induction Cookware Guide: Can You Use Kadhai, Tawa, and Pressure Cooker?

While induction cooktops offer a modern, efficient solution to reduce dependency on gas, they do require a rethink of what works on that glass surface. It isn’t just about heat anymore; it’s about science, compatibility, and ensuring your existing cookware aligns with this new way of cooking.

How Induction Cooktops Work?

Unlike gas or electric coils, which use thermal conduction to transfer heat to a vessel, induction works through magnetic induction. Under the cooktop's glass surface lies a copper coil. When you turn on the power, an alternating current flows through this coil, creating a magnetic field.  

This field induces an electric current directly into the cookware itself. Essentially, the pan becomes the heat source. This is why the cooktop stays relatively cool to the touch while the food inside the pot cooks rapidly. Because of this process, the first question many home cooks ask is: Can we use a pressure cooker on induction stoves? The answer depends entirely on what that cooker is made of.  
 

How Can You Check If Your Cookware Is Induction Compatible?

  
The simplest way to check if your existing pots and pans will work is the magnet test. Grab a fridge magnet and hold it to the bottom of your cookware. If the magnet sticks firmly, the piece is ferrous and will work perfectly.  

If there is no pull, the induction coil won't recognise the pan. You should also look for a flat base. Since the energy transfer happens via a magnetic field, the more contact the base has with the glass surface, the more efficient the cooking will be.  
 

Can You Use a Kadhai on an Induction Cooktop?

  
The traditional Indian kitchen relies heavily on the kadhai for everything from deep frying to slow-cooking gravies. However, many old-fashioned kadhais have a rounded bottom designed to nestle into a gas flame.  

These won't work on a flat induction surface. To bridge this gap, manufacturers now offer an induction-friendly kadhai featuring a thick, flat magnetic base. These allow you to maintain the high-heat cooking style required for Indian cuisine while ensuring the cooktop can detect the vessel.  
 

Can You Use a Tawa on an Induction Cooktop?

 
Making rotis or dosas requires a consistent, even heat across the surface of a flat pan. If you are wondering whether we can use tawa on induction units, ensure the tawa is made of cast iron or high-grade stainless steel with a magnetic bottom.  

A standard aluminium tawa will remain stone cold on an induction hob. Using a specialised induction tawa-compatible pan ensures that the heat is distributed evenly to the edges, preventing the centre of your dosa from burning while the edges remain raw.  
 

Can You Use a Pressure Cooker on an Induction Cooktop?

  
Pressure cooking is a staple for pulses and rice. Most modern pressure cookers are now designed with an induction base, which is usually a perforated stainless-steel plate fused to the bottom of an aluminium body.  

If you are unsure and asking, Can we use kadhai on induction or similar heavy vessels, always check for the induction-compatible symbol (looks like a series of loops or a coil) etched onto the bottom of the product.  
 

How Do You Choose the Right Induction Cookware for Indian Cooking?

Here are some features worth considering when buying an induction cooktop:

Heavy-Bottomed Construction

• Choose stainless steel or cast-iron cookware with a thick base 

• Ensures even heat distribution and prevents burning 

• Ideal for Indian cooking techniques like simmering, tadka, and slow cooking 

Good Heat Retention

• Opt for cookware that retains heat well for consistent cooking 

• Helps maintain stable temperatures for dishes like dal and curries 

• Reduces the need for constant reheating 

Tri-Ply Technology

• Look for tri-ply construction (steel + aluminium + steel layers) 

• Combines aluminium’s conductivity with steel’s magnetic compatibility 

• Ensures faster, more efficient cooking on induction 

• Example: Bergner Argent Samsara Tri-Ply Stainless Steel Cookware Set 

Flat and Induction-Compatible Base

• Ensure the base is flat and magnetic for proper contact with the cooktop 

• Improves energy efficiency and cooking performance

Conclusion

  
Moving to induction doesn't mean you have to abandon your cooking style. It just means being more intentional about the materials you use. By choosing the right magnetic-based tools, you can enjoy faster cooking times and a much easier cleanup process.