Topic: Hi from downunder

[Cory Ander]

Hi Mick,

Glad to hear you found what you were looking for 

Regarding tawas, I recommend you buy the version that isn't "nonstick" (I notice they sell "nonstick" versions too).  However, I've bought several of these (i.e. the ones that aren't "nonstick") and, unfortunately, the handles fall off quite quickly!    It doesn't really matter much; they are still usable (i.e. for cooking naans, chapattis, etc).  I'll probably fit a broom handle (or similar) to them eventually...maybe....or just buy new ones.

They also (usually) sell decent (and cheap...around $12 each) aluminium frying pans.  The ones in the photo are 28cm (rear) and 26 cm (front) diameters.  The smaller one is perfect for making single portion curries and the larger one is perfect for making double portion curries.  The slight annoyance with them, though, is that the long handles unbalance them (when they have little in them).  Which is the last thing that you need when they have hot oil in them! 

Regarding stock pots, I suggest you try (in future) a "Red Dot" store.  They sell stainless steel stock pots really cheap.  The ones below are 20 litres (rear) and 10 litres (front) and cost me around $12 and $8 each (at the time...a few years ago now) respectively.  The larger one is a bit thin, but it does the job (i.e. for making larger batches of curry bases) if you're careful with the heat.

[Aussie Mick]

Yes, I've got a couple of those pans. Same problem here with the un-balancing. I tried bending the handle upwards to balance it better, but it didn't work. May have to cut the handle shorter, but at $12, I'm not complaining.

I bought a non stick and a plain steel tawa. Haven't tried them yet. I noticed the handle on the steel one was loose, so i tightened it up and it seems OK. Time will tell.

Cheers for the info re: Red Dot. I think I'm OK at the moment for stock pots. I've got my 11 litre pressure cooker and 3 other largish pots.