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11/5/20202 min read

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Designing an Indian kitchen involves considering specific cultural and culinary preferences. Here's a checklist tailored for planning an Indian kitchen:

1. Cuisine Considerations:

  • Identify the type of Indian cuisine you primarily cook (North Indian, South Indian, etc.).

  • Plan for specific appliances and storage for Indian cooking essentials like spices, lentils, and grains.

2. Work Triangle:

  • Optimize the work triangle (cooking, preparation, and cleaning areas) for efficient movement.

  • Consider the traditional Indian cooking style that involves multiple pots and pans simultaneously.

3. Storage for Spices and Ingredients:

  • Plan for ample storage for a variety of spices, masalas, lentils, and grains.

  • Consider pull-out racks, spice organizers, and labeled containers.

4. Dedicated Masala and Spice Area:

  • Designate a specific area or drawer for storing masalas and spices.

  • Ensure easy access to frequently used spices during cooking.

5. Modular Kitchen Design:

  • Consider a modular kitchen design for flexibility in arranging cabinets and shelves.

  • Opt for modular units that can be customized to accommodate Indian cookware.

6. Ventilation for Indian Cooking:

  • Install a powerful chimney or exhaust fan to handle heavy spice and oil fumes.

  • Consider a kitchen with good cross-ventilation to dissipate cooking odors.

7. Granite or Stone Countertops:

  • Choose durable and heat-resistant countertop materials like granite or stone.

  • Ensure the countertops can withstand the use of heavy utensils and hot vessels.

8. Large Sink and Drainboard:

  • Opt for a spacious sink with a drainboard for washing large vessels and utensils.

  • Consider a deep sink for convenience in washing large pots.

9. Tandoor or Grilling Space:

  • If you enjoy making tandoori dishes, plan for a tandoor or a grilling space.

  • Allocate space for storing grilling accessories.

10. Dedicated Area for Dough Preparation:

  • Plan for a dedicated space for kneading dough if you frequently make Indian bread (roti, chapati).

  • Include a smooth, easily cleanable surface for rolling out dough.

11. Specialized Appliances:

  • Consider space for specialized Indian cooking appliances like pressure cookers, idli makers, and grinders.

  • Plan for the storage of large pots used for making biryanis or curries.

12. Lighting for Cooking Areas:

  • Ensure bright and focused lighting over the cooking and preparation areas.

  • Consider task lighting for specific workstations.

13. Color Palette and Decor:

  • Choose a color palette that reflects warmth and vibrancy, common in Indian decor.

  • Consider adding decorative elements like tiles or artwork inspired by Indian motifs.

14. Waste Management:

  • Plan for efficient waste disposal, considering the need for composting organic kitchen waste.

  • Allocate space for separate bins for different types of waste.

15. Traditional Cooking Utensils:

  • Consider storage for traditional Indian utensils like kadhai, pressure cooker, and tawa.

  • Ensure easy access to these utensils for everyday cooking.

16. Accessibility for Elders:

  • Design the kitchen with accessibility in mind, especially if elders are using the space.

  • Ensure that commonly used items are within easy reach.

17. Water Purification System:

  • Include a reliable water purification system, given the importance of clean water in Indian cooking.

18. Vastu Considerations:

  • If you follow Vastu principles, consider the orientation and placement of the kitchen.

19. Fire Safety Measures:

  • Install a fire extinguisher in a readily accessible location.

  • Avoid clutter near the stove to prevent fire hazards.

20. Final Inspection and Adjustments:

  • Inspect the kitchen after installation to ensure it meets your specific needs.

  • Make any necessary adjustments based on your cooking habits and preferences.

Customize this checklist based on your personal preferences, regional cooking styles, and family size to create a functional and culturally appropriate Indian kitchen. Consulting with a kitchen designer with experience in Indian kitchens can also be beneficial.