Kazan (cookware)

Kazan (also spelled qazan, kazan, qozon, ghazan, or ghzan) is a type of large cooking pot used throughout Central Asia, Russia, and the Balkan Peninsula, for a variety of dishes such as pilaf, soup, and stew.

Etymology

The word Kazan is derived from the Turkic word qazan, which means "boiling" or "stewing". The word has been adopted into several languages, including Russian, Uzbek, and Tatar, and is used to refer to a wide variety of cooking pots.

Design

A Kazan is typically made of cast iron or copper, and has a rounded bottom and a heavy lid. The rounded bottom allows for even heat distribution, while the heavy lid helps to retain heat and moisture. Some Kazans have a handle for easy lifting, while others are designed to be placed directly on a heat source, such as a stove or fire.

Use

Kazans are used for a variety of dishes, including pilaf (a rice dish cooked with meat and vegetables), soup, and stew. In Central Asia, a Kazan is often used to cook plov, a popular dish made with rice, meat, and vegetables. In Russia, a Kazan is often used to cook borsch, a traditional soup made with beetroot.

Cultural Significance

In many cultures, the Kazan is more than just a cooking pot. It is a symbol of hospitality and communal eating. In Uzbekistan, for example, a large Kazan is often used to cook meals for special occasions, such as weddings and festivals. The food is then served directly from the Kazan, symbolizing the sharing of food and community.

See Also

• Pilaf
• Borsch
• Uzbekistan
• Russia

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