Kerala Traditional Clay Manchatty

Features of Kerala Traditional Clay Manchatty:

1. Material:
   • The Manchatty is made from natural, locally sourced clay. Clay pots, like the Manchatty, have been traditionally used for cooking in Kerala for centuries.
   • The porous nature of the clay allows moisture to slowly evaporate, resulting in perfectly cooked food with rich flavors.
2. Shape & Design:
   • The Manchatty typically has a round, wide base with a slightly narrower opening. This design helps in even heat distribution during cooking, ensuring that food cooks slowly and retains its natural juices.
   • The pot is often simple in appearance, but it can have subtle decorations or designs, depending on the artisan.
3. Usage:
   • Traditionally, the Manchatty is used for cooking a variety of Kerala dishes such as Kerala Sadya (a traditional feast), rice, curries, stews, and fish dishes like Meen Curry.
   • It is also used for making traditional puttu (a steamed rice cake) and avial (a mixed vegetable dish).
   • The cooking process in a clay pot is slow, allowing the food to absorb flavors and cook evenly, making it more aromatic and flavorful.
4. Benefits:
   • Flavor Enhancement: Cooking in a Manchatty is believed to improve the flavor of food. The porous surface allows the clay to breathe, retaining the natural taste of the ingredients.
   • Health Benefits: Some people believe that food cooked in clay pots is healthier, as it retains more nutrients compared to cooking in metal or non-stick pots.
   • Natural Non-stick Surface: Over time, the clay surface becomes seasoned, making it a natural non-stick surface for cooking.
5. Cultural Significance:
   • The Manchatty is deeply rooted in Kerala’s culinary culture. It reflects the simplicity and rustic charm of Kerala’s traditional cooking methods.
   • It is often used in Kerala households for daily cooking and also during special occasions and festivals.
6. Maintenance:
   • Cleaning: Cleaning a Manchatty requires care. It should be washed with mild soap and water and scrubbed gently to avoid damaging the clay. Avoid using harsh chemicals.
   • Seasoning: New clay pots should be seasoned before use, often by soaking them in water overnight and then drying them slowly to prevent cracking.