Have you ever heard of a comal pan? It is a flat cooking surface pan initially used in Mexico, Central America, and South America. It’s the best, most straightforward way to prepare tortillas, quesadillas, pancakes, and more. In this article, we will review six different options to determine the best comal pan to buy.
Best Comal Pan
- Non-stick heavy-duty cast iron tortilla press and heat-retaining comal pan duo
- 8-in tortilla press & 10.5-in flat pan are both larger than average to fit more food
- Durable cast iron
- Heat & rust-resistant
- Evenly distributes heat up to 450°F on any cooking surface
- Cook inside or outdoors
- Pre-seasoned & ready to use
IMUSA USA CAR-52023 13.5″ Nonstick Carbon Steel Small Round Comal with Metal Handles
The large IMUSA USA 13.5″ features a nonstick coating and a round shape made of carbon steel. Carbon steel is highly durable and will last a long time. Its metal handles on the sides make for easy maneuverability when cooking, keeping your hands from the flames. The flat surface of this pan also allows it to distribute heat quickly and evenly.
This is perfect for making quesadillas, pancakes, or tortillas, but it should be used with low or medium heat.
Pros
- The 13.5-inch size makes it conducive to cooking a variety of foods.
- The nonstick coating makes cleaning easier.
- You can use less oil or butter due to the nonstick surface.
- The handles are a nice feature, so you can quickly move the pan on your stove if you need to.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the pan will quickly burn. Be sure to use low or medium heat when using this pan on stovetop burners.
- There have been reports of the pan’s nonstick coating peeling or flaking.
Overall IMUSA USA CAR-52023 13.5″ Nonstick Carbon Steel Small Round Comal with Metal Handles Review
If you enjoy homemade tortillas, quesadillas, or even grilled cheese sandwiches, buying a round comal pan can be a highly functional item to add to your kitchen. This round comal pan measures 13.5″ across the flat surface, which is quite large for a round comal pan. It also has two side handles for ease of use.
In addition, because this pan features a nonstick coating, you can use less cooking oil, making for healthier meals and easier clean-up. Finally, it has over 3,000 reviews and has received a 3.8 out of 5-star rating on Amazon.
Victoria Cast Iron Round Pan Comal Griddle Seasoned
The Victoria Cast Iron Roun comal pan has 10.5″ of cooking surface and a 7″ handle. The cast iron construction offers optimal heat retention and distribution of heat throughout the pan. In addition, the cooking surface is slightly sloped to allow for easier cooking, making it more of a hybrid between a cast iron pan and a comal, giving you the best of both worlds.
Pros
- The pan is seasoned cast iron.
- This comal pan can keep your food hot longer.
- The handle is curved and longer, allowing for a better grip when using this pan.
- No PTFE or PFOAS which can be harmful to health.
- This pan is versatile. You can use it as a pancake griddle, pizza pan, or to make flatbreads, vegetables, or crepes (and more!)
- This pan can be used on most stovetop burners, including induction stoves. It is also oven safe up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit.
Cons
- Cast iron pans may be too heavy for some users’ comfort.
- Cast iron cookware requires special care and cleaning.
Overall Victoria Cast Iron Round Pan Comal Griddle Seasoned Review
A good cast iron griddle like this one offers an excellent ability to be seasoned. The coating is made of flaxseed oil and is 100% non-GMO. Flaxseed oil is also vegan and Kosher certified, making it an excellent option for a wide variety of people.
The high versatility of this pan cannot be beaten. You can use this cast iron comal griddle for heating food, as a tortilla griddle, or to char vegetables. So whether you want to make pancakes, tortillas, pizza, or flatbreads, it can handle it. This pan is suitable for use on the stovetop, in the broiler, in the oven, on a grill, or even over a campfire. Its durability is also through the roof, as it is made of cast iron.
As a flat griddle pan, you can also use it in various ways. The Victoria Cast Iron Comal Pan is designed for durability and comfort. It is made with heavy cast iron which allows for even heat distribution and will keep your food hot for longer. The handles are also designed to enable you to get a good, secure grip so you can move the pan safely.
This product has over 1,200 ratings on Amazon and has earned a 4.6 out of 5-star review.
Uno Casa Cast Iron Tortilla Press 8 Inch with Cast Iron Comal Pan
The Uno Casa cast iron comal pan offers heavy-duty construction and a nonstick cooking surface. You can use a comal for tortillas, pancakes, sear meat, or even as a pizza stone. This one comes with a tortilla press perfect for making homemade tortillas.
Pros
- Large size – The tortilla press is 8 inches, and the flat pan is 10.5 inches. This allows you to cook more food and is perfect if you are cooking for a family or a group of guests.
- The pan and tortilla maker are built to last. They are made of cast iron and are resistant to heat and rust.
- You can use this product on your stovetop, grill, or in the oven.
- Safe for use at temperatures up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
- The comal retains heat well, allowing the food to stay hot longer if you use the pan for serving.
- The pan is pre-seasoned cast iron that is ready to use.
Cons
- Cast iron requires special cleaning. It is not dishwasher safe.
- Some users report that a lot of pressure has to be used to press tortillas, which can be difficult for some people.
Overall Uno Casa Cast Iron Tortilla Press 8 Inch with Cast Iron Comal Pan Review
If you are looking for a bigger comal and a tortilla press for tortilla making, this set is an excellent option. Not too many options out there have the tortilla press included, so if that’s a significant feature for you, this is a solid pick. The cast iron construction is sturdy, durable, and built to last. Its non-stick surface makes cooking more manageable, while the pan distributes heat evenly.
The comal pan can withstand temperatures up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit and can be used on a stovetop, oven, or grill. As a bonus, this set also comes with a recipe ebook, a silicone handle for the pan, and 100 sheets of parchment paper. This product has over 5,400 reviews on Amazon and has earned a 4.5 out of 5 stars.
IMUSA USA Preseasoned Cast Iron Comal 9.5-Inch, Black
The IMUSA cast iron comal offers 9.5 inches of cooking space. The pan is flat with a slight lip around the outer rim. It is made of cast iron, so it is built to last.
Pros
- This pan has a scratch-resistant surface.
- The cast iron comes pre-seasoned.
- It is designed for good heat distribution and retention.
- This pan is versatile. You can use it to prepare a variety of meats and vegetables, in addition to tortillas or to fry eggs.
Cons
- The pan weighs over 4 pounds. This is lighter than some heavyweight iron pans, but the weight is something to consider as you make your purchasing decision.
- Some users report that their pan has rusted or oxidized after a few uses. Be sure to dry your cast iron after cleaning it thoroughly.
Overall IMUSA USA Preseasoned Cast Iron Comal 9.5-Inch, Black Review
If you want a smaller size comal, the IMUSA option could be just what you are looking for. However, the size of cooking surfaces differs from pan to pan, so consider what will work best for you and your needs. Made of durable cast iron, the heat retention and heat distribution of the IMUSA cast iron comal are optimal for cooking tortillas, eggs, or a variety of meats and vegetables.
The weight of this pan is less than some cast iron pieces, but be sure to think about whether the pan will be too heavy for you to use before you make your buying decision comfortably. This product has received nearly 1,000 ratings and has earned a 4.5 out of 5-star review on Amazon.
Innerwell Nonstick Comal Crepe Pan
The Innerwell pan offers a nonstick coating that makes both cooking and cleaning up a breeze. It is also designed to perform well and be comfortable and safe to move around. Best of all, this pan is dishwasher safe!
Pros
- The pan features a nonstick ceramic coating. This makes food slide over it, which helps make clean up easier.
- This pan is designed to heat quickly and evenly.
- The handle is ergonomic to allow you to grab it better while cooking.
- The handle is also heat-resistant for safer use, even without an oven mitt.
- Dishwasher safe
- Suitable for all stove types, including induction.
Cons
- Some users report that the pan is made of thin metal that easily warps.
- The handle appears to be heavier than the pan, which can cause it to tip while on the stovetop.
Overall Innerwell Nonstick Comal Crepe Pan Review
The Innerwell pan’s non-stick coating is one of the best on this list. It will help with cooking and cleaning up, keeping any foods from sticking with minimal to no oil or butter. You do need to be careful about cooking utensils scratching the coating, though. Try to avoid metal utensils with a non-stick pan if you can.
The Innerwell comal pan is PFOA and PTFE free and can be used on various types of stoves. The handle is designed to be ergonomic, which will help you get a more secure grip before moving it. This pan has nearly 100 reviews on Amazon and has earned 4.2 out of 5 stars.
Comal 17 inch Mexican Carbon Steel Black Oval Flat Non-Stick Griddle Tortillas Cooking Appliance Pan
This versatile comal pan can be used in the oven, on the stove top, or on a grill. The pan is non-stick and made of carbon steel thus making it resistant to wear. The two handles are helpful if you move the pan while cooking and the cooking surface is a good size. Best of all, the pan is lightweight.
Pros
- Non-stick coating
- Measures 17×9 inches
- Two metal handles
- Weighs less than 3 pounds
- It can be used to cook a variety of items
Cons
- The handles are thin and appear flimsy.
Overall Comal 17 inch Mexican Carbon Steel Black Oval Flat Non-Stick Griddle Tortillas Cooking Appliance Pan Review
This carbon steel comal pan is lighter than cast iron options, but you sacrifice some benefits by choosing this option. The nonstick coating is a nice feature, as it makes cooking and cleaning easier. So whether you are cooking tortillas or want to sear meat, this pan can handle it.
The 17×9 inch size gives you more cooking surface than the other options we’ve reviewed. However, the weight of this pan is one of its advantages. At less than 3 pounds, this lightweight option will undoubtedly be easier to maneuver than a cast iron pan for most people.
In terms of cooking performance, however, there are differences. Because this pan is made of carbon steel, users may experience uneven heating, making cooking more difficult, whereas cast iron is known for very good heat distribution. In addition, Comal pans are known for their functionality as a tortilla pan, and this option will fulfill that purpose.
This pan has over 20 reviews and has earned a 3.4 out of 5 stars.
What To Look For in a Comal Pan
What material is best for a comal pan?
There are a variety of materials that can be used for comal pans, including cast iron, aluminum, and carbon steel. These different materials affect how the food will cook. The best comal pans are generally cast iron, but these are both heavier and more expensive than other options. Therefore, you have to decide the essential feature for you.
Cast iron pans are naturally nonstick, without even needing a coating, and are built to last. Their durability is unmatched, and a cast iron pan will retain heat and cook well while using less vegetable oil in cooking.
You may be wondering why you need a comal. Why not just use a nonstick frying pan? The difference is based on the cooking surface. A comal pan has a slightly rough surface texture that a nonstick frying pan does not. This, plus its even heat distribution, is what makes it best for cooking large, flat foods like tortillas and pancakes.
What size comal pan should I buy?
It is essential to think through what you want to use your comal pan for before deciding what size pan to purchase.
The 10-inch pans typically have a short raised rim, making flipping food in the pan easier. The edge also allows you to use the pan for cooking a variety of other foods, including those that need some liquid like cooking oils.
This allows you to prepare food and still easily move the pan around the stove. Additionally, this size comal will not take up too much space in your cabinet. However, you will only be able to cook one tortilla at a time if you opt for this size comal pan.
If you are cooking for one or do not mind making things like tortillas or quesadillas one at a time, this option may work best for you, it would just be a bit of a slower process. However, if you are cooking for more people, you may be better-suited upgrading to a bigger pan.
There are also larger comal pans that offer 12 to 15-inch diameters. If you plan to cook more food for a larger group of people or if you want to make larger food items such as a large flatbread, this bigger size will be a better option. A larger comal can also be used as a pizza stone, expanding its usefulness considerably. Unfortunately, it also means it takes up more space in the kitchen.
As you decide which size pan works best for you, it is essential to realize that many larger ones do not have the raised rim. So if you are planning to make anything that needs cooking oil, such options will not work for you. However, they can handle dry cooking just fine.
What shape of comal is best?
Comal pans typically come in three shapes: round, oval, or rectangular.
For most people, the round comal will be the best option. It is easy to use in a home kitchen and fits nicely on a stovetop burner. This allows for more even heating, which leads to an enhanced cooking experience.
If you opt for an oval comal, you will probably need to use it across two burners due to its larger size and shape. The added space helps if you are cooking more food, but the necessity of using two burners can make getting the temperature right a challenge.
Rectangular comals are similar to the large griddles that many people already own. If you are cooking for a big group you may need the rectangular option. However, you may find that the rectangular comal pan is too big for regular daily use.
Comal Pan FAQ
What is an authentic comal?
Comals are typically from Mexico and other Central and South American countries. It is a flat bottom pan used to cook tortillas, char vegetables, and cook meat.
What is the best pan for making tortillas?
The best pan for making tortillas is a comal. The flat bottom pan with its rough texture allows for better tortillas to be prepared.
What is a traditional comal made of?
Traditionally, a clay comal pan was popular. However, cast iron options were also available and desired due to their heat retention.
What’s the best comal pan?
Based on the pans reviewed, the Uno Casa 8 Inch with Cast Iron Comal Pan is the best option. It comes with both a pan and a tortilla press, which is excellent if you want to try making homemade tortillas.
The Uno Casa pan is heavy-duty yet provides a nonstick cooking surface. This is great for both cooking and cleaning. You can use this pan to cook a wide variety of foods because of its flat surface. However, this pan has a raised rim around it, which means that you can also cook foods that need vegetable oil or cooking fat.
The pan’s cooking size is approximately 10.5 inches in diameter. While this is larger than some comals, it is not excessively large.
The cast iron construction holds the heat well, even after you remove the comal from the burner or the oven. This product is safe for use at temperatures up to 450 degrees, which means you can even use it in your oven. If you use the pan for serving too, the cast iron construction will hold the heat longer. The pan comes pre-seasoned and is safe to use on your stovetop, grill, or in the oven.
Be aware that cast iron requires special cleaning care and is not dishwasher safe. Cast iron is also heavier than other pans, so the pan’s weight is also something to keep in mind. However, the pan is built to last with sturdy construction. The bonuses available with this product include a recipe ebook, a removable silicone handle for the pan so that you can avoid getting burned by the hot pan, and 100 sheets of parchment paper.
Best Comal Pan Final Thoughts
While a traditional Mexican comal was used for tortillas, meats, and vegetables, you can use yours to make these items plus pancakes, crepes, or even eggs. Comal cookware features a unique design compared to other frying pans. While you may wonder why you should add another pan to your kitchen when you already have a frying pan, keep in mind that the comal has a slightly rough bottom surface, making it better for cooking food like tortillas.
With over 5,000 reviews on Amazon, 87% are 4 or 5 stars. So join in with thousands of other satisfied customers and buy the Uno Casa comal pan for your cooking needs.
