With time, Curry pots have evolved into several unique styles; which makes it possible to cook various dishes in a single pot. Due to their wide use, curry pots hold a very important place in Indian culinary tradition. They were originally introduced by Portuguese settlers during the early 16th century. Back then, they used earthenware cooking equipment imported from Europe to prepare Sambar with meat and fish. Later on, Indian cooks started using those utensils for preparing vegetarian curries as well.

Curry pots, popularly known as 'Kulukki Chembu' in Kerala, is a prominent part of every Malayali household. The cuisine of Kerala cannot be imagined without a curry pot. These pots are crafted with special care and are one-of-a-kind, as they’re made by hand and are prepared in various sizes to prepare different gravies like sambar, rasam, egg curry etc. It is made from earthen clay and fired in Chulha. Each pot is unique, it adds character to food prepared in it. 

Benefits :

• This pot is made of fresh and natural clay locally available in the Palakkad region. No chemical is applied to make it smooth or shiny. It has all the goodness of the clay pots used by our grannies. So, it is a safe and healthy choice for all of us.
• Clay is somewhat porous so heat and moisture circulate through the pot, unlike metal & enamel pots therefore it is perfect for slow cooking without overheating. This helps retain all the natural vitamins and minerals of the food. Clay pots add many essential nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, iron, magnesium and sulphur to food.
• Clay is alkaline in nature and neutralizes acidic food. hence, clay helps in maintaining a healthy pH balance in the body and reduces common stomach problems faced by youngsters due to excessive consumption of fast food.
• Compatible with gas stoves, microwave ovens & traditional chulhas. Don't heat the pots empty, if u r preparing curry add the oil first then heat the pot.
• Retains heat for a longer period. Thus keeping your food warm for a longer duration avoiding repetitive re-heating.

How to Clean:

For general and deep cleaning, allow the earthen pot to soak overnight in the sink in water mixed with baking soda. Add 3 tablespoons of baking soda per liter of hot water. Wash the pot with a soft bristle brush or nonmetallic scrubbing pad. Do not use abrasive scouring powders because they will clog the pores and make the pot useless. Salt can be used as a non-toxic alternative to chemical cleaners. Sprinkle salt into the pot and scour it using a scouring pad. Rinse the pot with warm water and allow it to dry.

If any mold forms during storage periods sprinkle baking soda inside the pot, then rinse with warm water using a brush to remove the mold. If clay pores become clogged, the pot should be cooked in boiling water for about 30 minutes.

Never use soap or detergent because the porous nature of clay will absorb the soap. The detergent may leave an unpleasant soapy taste and this flavor will leach back into your next clay pot meal.

Storage:

After washing, make sure to store your earthenware in dry and well-ventilated areas. This will eliminate the risk of mold growth inside the pot.

If bacterial growth is of concern, dry the pots in a 200°F oven for 30 minutes before storing in a cool, dry place.