In the fast-paced world of ever-evolving trends, 2024 is proving to be the year of rediscovery, especially in the realm of kitchenware. From bustling Mumbai to vibrant Bangalore, the trend of embracing traditional Indian cooking utensils is making a significant comeback. In this article, we’ll delve into the resurgence of six timeless kitchen essentials, explore the brands championing the revival, and unravel the health benefits associated with cooking the old-fashioned way. 1.The Return of the Mortar and Pestle: Chef Amninder Sandhu’s gas-less kitchen at Gauri Khan’s Arth in Mumbai sparked a resurgence of traditional kitchen tools like the silbatta, sigri, mortar, and pestle. Amninder passionately highlights the rustic charm and effectiveness of these age-old tools, emphasizing the unparalleled release of essential oils and flavors when ingredients are crushed manually. 2. Zishta: Bridging Past and Present: Bangalore-based brand Zishta, founded by Meera Ramakrishnan, Varishta Sampath, and Archish Mathe Madhavan, is at the forefront of reviving forgotten kitchen essentials. Ramakrishnan explains that Zishta works with rural artisans, preserving ancient techniques. Their products, such as pure iron tawas, cast iron kadais, soapstone cooking vessels, tin vessels for rasam, and brass coffee filters, are gaining popularity for their authenticity. 3.Copper Craftwork Revival by Coppre: Pune-based Coppre, founded by Rashmi Ranade, Chhanda Bihari, Sudakshina Sinha Banerjee, and Seemantini Mihir, is leading the resurgence of heritage copper craftwork. By shifting from a weight-based to a per-piece remuneration model, Coppre has not only revived traditional craftsmanship but also increased artisans’ earnings by almost 30 percent. Seemantini sheds light on the daily maintenance routine of copper utensils, drawing a humorous parallel to a daily workout for users. 4.Sustainability and Contemporary Matka by Ellementry: Ayush Baid, founder of Ellementry, emphasizes the growing consumer consciousness regarding sustainability. Ellementry’s papier-mâché material, crafted from recycled waste like marble dust, wood dust, old papers, and natural glue, has gained traction. Baid further explores the modern avatars of traditional items like the matka, reshaped to fit seamlessly into contemporary kitchens. 5.Cookware Wisdom: Traditional Metals for Specific Purposes: Coppre co-founder Seemantini Mihir shares insights into the ancient wisdom of using specific metals for specific purposes in the kitchen. Copper for water, kansa for food, and brass (with tinning) for cooking — each metal imparts trace elements that benefit the human body. The transfer of these elements adds authenticity to the cooking process. 6.Health Benefits of Traditional Cookware: Zishta’s Ramakrishnan advocates for the health benefits associated with traditional cookware. Stoneware, considered one of the healthiest materials to eat from, consumes 15 percent less fuel, retains heat, cooks evenly and faster, retains over 98 percent of minerals from cooked food, and requires lesser oil. The absence of harmful chemical coatings ensures an authentic taste and aroma in the prepared food. 7.The Alchemy On Your Plate: Exploring the alchemical properties of traditional materials, the article sheds light on how clay interacts with acidity in food, neutralizing it and aiding digestion. Kansa, a mixture of copper and tin, is praised in Ayurveda for purifying food, boosting immunity, and enhancing brain function. Drinking filter coffee from brass tumblers is said to cut acidity and elevate the flavor and aroma of the beloved dark liquid. Conclusion: In a world captivated by modernity, the resurgence of traditional Indian kitchenware in 2024 is a testament to the enduring charm and effectiveness of age-old utensils and materials. From the rustic allure of the mortar and pestle to the contemporary avatars of the matka, brands like Zishta, Coppre, and Ellementry are spearheading a movement that not only embraces tradition but also champions sustainability and health benefits. As we embark on this journey back to the basics, let’s savor the flavors of authenticity and rediscover the joy of cooking with timeless utensils that connect us to our rich culinary heritage. Bon appétit!