Kalimannu Earthen Clay Kadai

At Kalimannu, we carefully pack and deliver traditional handcrafted clay cookware to ensure it reaches you safely. Each product undergoes strict quality checks before dispatch.

📦 Shipping Information

• We ship across India and internationally
• Shipping charges are calculated based on the total weight of your order
• Add items to your cart and use the Shipping Calculator to view the exact delivery cost
• Orders are dispatched within 24–72 hours after payment confirmation
  (Seasoned products require an additional 1 day for preparation)

Estimated Delivery Time

• India: 6–12 business days
• International: 12–26 business days

Tracking details will be shared via Email/SMS once your order is shipped.

❌ Prepaid Orders Only

Clay cookware is fragile and handcrafted with care. To avoid transit damage caused by return shipments, we accept prepaid orders only.

⚠️ No Return / Exchange Policy

Our products are made from 100% natural clay and are fragile by nature.
Therefore:

• Returns, refunds, or exchanges are not available once the product is delivered
• Please review product details carefully before placing your order

🔁 Replacement for Transit Damage

We take utmost care in packaging. However, if your product is damaged during transit:

Please share the following within 24 hours of delivery:

• Clear unboxing photos/videos showing the damage
• Your order details/invoice

Once verified, we will arrange a replacement at no extra cost.
No need to return the damaged item.

We are committed to delivering authentic, traditional clay cookware and ensuring you have a smooth and satisfying experience with Kalimannu.

To strengthen your earthen pot and ensure the best cooking results, seasoning is essential before first use. Here are two simple and effective methods.

Why Seasoning Matters

• Strengthens the pot and reduces the risk of cracks
• Seals tiny pores in the clay
• Helps the pot absorb oil and develop a natural non-stick layer
• Removes the raw earthy smell and taste
• Improves durability and cooking performance

Since the pots are made from 100% natural clay, slight earthy flavor or sticking may occur initially. Proper seasoning prepares the pot for long-lasting, healthy cooking.

Method 1: Rice Starch Water (Traditional Method)

1. Soak the pot
   Wash the pot and lid, then soak the pot in clean water for 15–20 minutes.
   Note: Only the pot needs seasoning. The lid should be washed but not seasoned.
2. Boil rice starch water
   Pour rice starch water (kanji vellam) into the pot and heat on low flame for 10–15 minutes.
3. Cool naturally
   Turn off the flame and allow the pot to cool completely.
4. Repeat (optional)
   Repeat this process 2–3 times for better strength and durability.

Method 2: Oil & Onion Seasoning (Quick Method)

1. After soaking and drying the pot, place it on the stove.
2. Add 5–8 tablespoons of cooking oil (coconut, groundnut, or sesame oil).
3. Add sliced onions and sauté gently on low to medium flame for 8–10 minutes.
4. Turn off the flame and let the pot cool naturally.
5. Discard the onions and wipe off excess oil with a clean cloth.

This process helps the clay absorb oil and build a natural non-stick surface.

Important Care Tips

• Always use low flame, especially during the first few uses
• Avoid sudden temperature changes
• Handle the pot gently while it is new

Final Step

After seasoning, allow the pot to dry completely in a well-ventilated area (sun-drying is ideal).

Tip: For the first 2–3 uses, cook liquid-based dishes like curries, rasam, or porridge to improve longevity.

Deep Burned Clay Pots, also known as Black Pottery, are made using a traditional double-firing technique that enhances their strength and durability.

Unlike regular red clay pots that are fired once, deep burned pots go through a second firing process. During this stage, the pots are stacked and heated with wood and hay at very high temperatures (up to 1200°C).

This process:

• Makes the pot stronger and more durable
• Gives the pot its natural black color
• Allows it to withstand direct high flame on gas stoves more effectively

Color Changes Are Normal

During use:

• Red clay pots may turn black in areas exposed to flame
• Black pots may show reddish tones over time

These changes are natural and do not affect performance or safety.

Red Clay vs. Black Clay – Which One is Better?

Both red and black clay pots offer excellent cooking quality.

• Black Clay Pots: Extra strong due to the double-firing (deep burned) process
• Red Clay Pots: Ideal for regular daily cooking and perform equally well

Important:
Both types require proper seasoning before first use. Seasoning improves durability, removes the raw clay smell, and ensures the best cooking experience. Our team provides clear guidance and support for seasoning.