If you love spices and want to unlock their full flavor potential - that’s where “tadka” comes in. “Tadka” is the technique in which whole or ground spices are roasted in oil or ghee (clarified butter) in order to release their essential oils, in order to make the flavor more aromatic. Tadkas are perfect to round out your dal, stews, veggies, rice, and more.

Since the Tadka Spoon has a flattened bottom, you can use it on any stove, even induction and especially in the oven! The Tadka Spoon works best on a gas stove but is induction stove compatible, depending on your personal stove.

Heat your spoon over a low flame and add a little bit of fat - either a generous spoonful of ghee, a little bit of oil, or both. This helps the pan heat evenly. Allow the oil to heat up before introducing the spices. The spices need to sizzle as soon as they are added to the oil. When your spices are ready, you want to be quick to turn off the heat and add your freshly finished tadka over your bowl of dal, rice, chutney - the options are truly endless - to capture the spices in their peak flavor!

Tiipoi uses materials that can be recycled easily in one piece, which is why our Tiipoi x Diaspora Co. Tadka Spoon is made completely out of iron sheets and can be used the same way as mini cast iron pan. When it comes to the end of its life, it will be able to be melted and re-used or returned to the earth.

No! It comes pre-seasoned with either coconut or sesame oil. However, you will want to season it occasionally just like a cast iron pan, especially if it shows wear or starts to rust from being left with water. You can season with a neutral oil like flaxseed.

Our Tadka Spoon is really good at retaining heat, so handle carefully! It’s best to avoid touching the bowl of the spoon entirely. Your spoon has an extra long handle to keep your fingers safe and cool. After cooking, do not let food stay in the spoon for too long - it's best to remove any food from the spoon immediately after cooking and before the food cools. Ensure not to leave your Tadka Spoon in your sink overnight!

If your Tadka Spoon starts to rust, don’t fear! This is normal with products that are made from iron. Usually your spoon can begin to show signs of rust if water was left on it after cleaning or if not enough oil used when cooking. If your spoon starts to rust, you treat it similar to a cast iron pan!

1. Gently scrub off any rust with salt and a vegetable scrubber.
2. Then using a paper towel, coat it with a neutral oil, like flaxseed.
3. Pop it in the oven for 1-2 hours at a low temperature.
4. The next time you use the spoon, make sure there is enough oil while you’re cooking and the coat will return to its original glory.
   
   Repeat this process as needed!