Kázans

Kázans are a type of traditional cooking pot originating from Central Asia, particularly associated with the cuisines of Tatarstan and Bashkortostan. These distinctive vessels are typically made from cast iron and are characterized by their thick walls and rounded, often somewhat flattened, bottom. This shape is crucial to their function, allowing for even heat distribution and retention, which is ideal for slow cooking, stewing, and deep-frying.

The name "kázan" is believed to have Turkic origins. The design of a kázan facilitates cooking over an open fire, a common practice in nomadic and semi-nomadic cultures of the region. Modern kázans are also used on stovetops and in ovens. They are commonly used to prepare a variety of iconic dishes, such as plov (a rice pilaf), shurpa (a hearty soup), and baursaki (fried dough). The size of a kázan can vary significantly, from small individual pots to very large communal cooking vessels. Their robust construction ensures durability and longevity, making them a treasured piece of cookware in many households.