Imagine the aroma of warm tortillas, the sizzle of perfectly cooked quesadillas, and the rich, smoky scent of roasted chilies. What magical kitchen tool makes all this possible? It’s the humble yet mighty Mexican Comal! For anyone who loves authentic Mexican cooking, this flat cooking surface is an absolute essential. But if you’ve ever tried to buy one, you know it’s not always easy. So many types exist, and it’s tough to figure out which one is best for your kitchen.
Choosing the wrong comal can lead to burnt tortillas, unevenly cooked food, and a lot of frustration. You want that perfect crispy edge on your sopes, or that golden-brown hue on your corn tortillas. Without the right comal, achieving these delicious results can feel like a never-ending battle. This post is here to end that struggle. We’ll guide you through the different types of comales, explain what makes each one special, and help you find the perfect fit for your home cooking adventures.
By the end of this guide, you’ll feel confident in your choice. You’ll know the pros and cons of cast iron, clay, and even modern non-stick options. Get ready to unlock the secrets to authentic Mexican flavors and elevate your cooking game. Let’s dive in and discover the best comal for you!
Our Top 5 Mexican Comal Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Mexican Comal Detailed Reviews
1. Lodge L9OG3 Cast Iron Round Griddle
Rating: 9.3/10
Get ready to cook up a storm with the Lodge L9OG3 Cast Iron Round Griddle! This 10.5-inch griddle is made right here in the USA and is ready for anything you throw at it. Use it on your stovetop, in the oven, on the grill, or even over a campfire. It’s built tough and seasoned naturally, so you can cook with confidence.
What We Like:
- It’s PFAS-free and non-toxic, meaning no yucky chemicals in your food. Lodge uses just iron and oil, keeping things safe and natural.
- This griddle is super versatile. Make pancakes, grill veggies, or even cook homemade tortillas – it handles it all!
- It comes pre-seasoned with natural vegetable oil, giving you a great non-stick surface right away. The more you cook, the better it gets!
- Cast iron holds heat really well and spreads it evenly. This means your food cooks uniformly, whether you’re on the stove or by the fire.
- It’s made in the USA by a family-owned company that’s been making great cookware since 1896. This griddle is built to last for many years.
What Could Be Improved:
- Cast iron can be heavy. This griddle might be a bit tough for some people to lift and move around easily.
- While the seasoning is great, it needs a little care. You’ll want to dry it thoroughly after washing and maybe add a thin coat of oil to keep it in top shape.
This Lodge cast iron griddle is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It’s a durable, healthy, and versatile cooking tool that will serve you well for years to come.
2. Victoria 10-Inch Cast Iron Comal Pizza Pan with 2 Side Handles
Rating: 8.9/10
Get ready to make amazing pizzas and more with the Victoria 10-Inch Cast Iron Comal Pizza Pan. This sturdy pan is made in Colombia and comes already seasoned with healthy flaxseed oil, so you can start cooking right away. Its classic black finish looks great in any kitchen.
What We Like:
- The cast iron surface gets better with every use, making food release easier.
- It’s seasoned with non-GMO, kosher flaxseed oil and is free of harmful PTFE and PFOA.
- The pan holds heat really well, keeping your food warm and ready to eat.
- Two easy-grip handles make it simple to move from the grill to your table.
- It’s super tough and built to last for many years of delicious meals.
- You can use it on almost any heat source, including stoves, ovens, campfires, and grills.
- It adds a natural iron boost to your food.
- Victoria has been making quality cast iron in Colombia since 1939, so you know it’s reliable.
What Could Be Improved:
- Cast iron can be heavy, so moving it might require some strength.
- It needs proper care and seasoning to prevent rust and maintain its non-stick qualities.
This Victoria cast iron comal is a fantastic tool for home cooks. It brings durability and versatility to your kitchen, promising many years of delicious, home-cooked meals.
3. ARC 200
Rating: 9.5/10
Get ready to cook up a storm outdoors with the ARC 200,000 BTU Stainless Steel Propane Stove and 20″ Mexican Comal Griddle Pan. This set is perfect for anyone who loves to cook outside, from backyard barbecues to camping trips. It comes with a big griddle pan and other cooking tools, making it easy to prepare all sorts of delicious meals for a crowd.
What We Like:
- Built to Last: It’s made from strong stainless steel, so it won’t rust or break easily.
- Super Hot Heat: With 200,000 BTUs, this stove gets really hot, really fast. This means you can cook food quickly.
- Cooks Evenly: The comal griddle pan is great for cooking things like tortillas and fajitas. It heats up evenly.
- Locks in Flavor: The dome lid traps heat and moisture, making your food juicier and tastier.
- Stable and Safe: The all-welded stainless steel frame is strong and keeps the stove steady, even outside. The regulator gives you good control over the flame and a safe connection to your propane tank.
- Wind and Water Resistant: The stove is designed to work well outside, even if it’s a little windy or damp.
What Could Be Improved:
- Learning Curve: The high heat might take some getting used to for precise cooking.
- Size for Storage: It’s a large set, so finding a good spot to store it when not in use might be tricky.
This ARC cooking set offers powerful performance and durable construction for all your outdoor culinary adventures. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone looking to elevate their outdoor cooking game.
4. IMUSA 13.5in Carbon Steel Nonstick Round Comal with Metal Handles
Rating: 8.9/10
The IMUSA 13.5in Carbon Steel Nonstick Round Comal with Metal Handles in Black is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. Its generous 13.5-inch cooking surface gives you plenty of room to make all sorts of delicious food. Made from strong carbon steel, it’s built to last and features a nonstick coating for easy cooking and cleanup. The sturdy metal handles make it safe and simple to carry.
What We Like:
- It has a big cooking surface, 13.5 inches wide, so you can cook lots of food at once.
- The carbon steel is very durable, meaning it will last a long time.
- The nonstick surface makes cooking and cleaning up super easy.
- It’s lightweight, so it’s easy to move around.
- It heats up quickly and can be used in the oven, which is very convenient.
- It’s great for making breakfast foods like pancakes and French toast, or even grilled cheese.
- It works well for cooking small meals or big ones for parties.
What Could Be Improved:
- The black color might show scratches over time.
- While it’s oven safe, the metal handles can get hot, so you’ll need oven mitts.
This comal is a truly versatile tool that makes cooking easy and fun for any occasion. It’s an essential item you’ll reach for again and again.
5. Victoria 12-Inch Cast Iron Comal Pizza Pan with a Long Handle and a Loop Handle
Rating: 8.8/10
Get ready to elevate your cooking with the Victoria 12-Inch Cast Iron Comal Pizza Pan. This pan is made in Colombia and comes preseasoned with flaxseed oil, making it ready for delicious meals right away. Its sturdy cast iron construction ensures great heat control for all your culinary adventures.
What We Like:
- The cast iron cooking surface is textured and gets better with every use, making food release easier.
- It’s seasoned with natural, non-GMO flaxseed oil, and is free from harmful PTFE and PFOA for healthier cooking.
- Excellent heat retention keeps your food warm and ready to serve.
- The long handle stays cool while you cook on the stovetop.
- A handy loop handle lets you move the pan easily from oven to table.
- This pan is super durable and built to last for many years of great meals.
- It’s incredibly versatile, working on gas, electric, ceramic, and induction cooktops, as well as in ovens, campfires, and on grills.
- Food cooked in this pan will stay warm longer and get a boost of natural iron.
- Victoria has been making quality cast iron in Colombia since 1939, meaning you get reliable cookware.
What Could Be Improved:
- Cast iron can be heavy, so moving it might require some effort.
- While it’s durable, cast iron needs proper care and seasoning to prevent rust and maintain its non-stick qualities.
This cast iron pan is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering durability and versatility for countless delicious meals. It’s a wise investment for anyone who loves to cook.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Your Perfect Mexican Comal
A Mexican comal is a fantastic kitchen tool. It’s a flat griddle used for cooking many delicious foods. Think tortillas, quesadillas, toasting spices, and searing meats. This guide will help you choose the best comal for your kitchen.
Key Features to Look For
When buying a comal, consider these important features:
Size Matters
- Diameter: Comals come in different sizes. A larger comal works well for making many tortillas at once or for cooking bigger items. A smaller one is good for smaller kitchens or for single servings. Think about how much food you usually cook.
Handle Design
- Comfort and Safety: Some comals have handles. Look for handles that are comfortable to hold and stay cool. This makes it easier and safer to move the comal when it’s hot.
- Integrated Handles: Other comals have handles built right into the sides. These are often more durable.
Even Heating
- Consistent Cooking: The best comals heat evenly. This means your food cooks uniformly without hot spots. This is super important for perfect tortillas.
Ease of Cleaning
- Simple Cleanup: A comal that’s easy to clean saves you time. Non-stick surfaces or smooth materials can make cleanup a breeze.
Important Materials
The material of your comal affects how it cooks and how long it lasts.
Cast Iron
- Durable and Classic: Cast iron comals are very popular. They heat up slowly but hold heat very well. This gives food a wonderful sear.
- Seasoning: Cast iron needs to be seasoned. This means coating it with oil and heating it up. This creates a natural non-stick surface and prevents rust. You’ll need to re-season it sometimes.
Carbon Steel
- Lightweight and Responsive: Carbon steel comals are lighter than cast iron. They heat up quickly and respond well to temperature changes.
- Similar to Cast Iron: Like cast iron, carbon steel also needs seasoning. It’s a great option if you want something similar to cast iron but easier to handle.
Other Materials
- Stainless Steel: Some comals use stainless steel. These are easy to clean and don’t need seasoning. However, they might not heat as evenly as cast iron or carbon steel.
- Non-stick Coatings: You can also find comals with non-stick coatings. These are very easy to clean. Just be careful not to scratch the surface.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make a comal better or worse.
Thickness
- Better Heat Retention: A thicker comal usually heats more evenly and retains heat better. This means less fluctuation in temperature while you cook.
Surface Smoothness
- Easier Food Release: A smooth cooking surface helps food slide off easily. This is especially helpful for delicate items like tortillas.
Durability and Longevity
- Built to Last: Well-made comals from good materials last for many years. Cast iron and carbon steel are known for their durability.
Weight
- Stability vs. Handling: A heavier comal can be more stable on the stovetop. However, a lighter comal is easier to lift and move.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your comal is important.
Versatile Cooking
- Beyond Tortillas: While comals are famous for tortillas, they do much more! You can toast nuts and seeds, sear vegetables, cook pancakes, and even warm up food.
- Searing Meats: A hot comal gives meats a delicious crust.
Stovetop and Grill Use
- Many Heat Sources: Most comals work on gas stoves, electric stoves, and even outdoor grills. Always check the product description for compatibility.
Maintenance is Key
- Proper Care: For cast iron and carbon steel, proper cleaning and seasoning are essential. Never use soap on seasoned cast iron. Just wipe it clean and maybe add a little oil.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mexican Comals
Q: What is the main purpose of a Mexican comal?
A: The main purpose of a Mexican comal is to cook tortillas, toast spices, and sear foods like meats and vegetables.
Q: What are the best materials for a comal?
A: The best materials are usually cast iron and carbon steel because they heat evenly and hold heat well.
Q: Do I need to season a cast iron comal?
A: Yes, you need to season a cast iron comal. This creates a non-stick surface and protects it from rust.
Q: How do I clean a comal?
A: For seasoned comals, wipe them clean with a paper towel and a little oil. For other materials, follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Q: Can I use a comal on an electric stove?
A: Yes, most comals work well on electric stoves, but always check the product details.
Q: What size comal should I buy?
A: It depends on how much you cook. Larger comals are good for families, while smaller ones are for individuals.
Q: Are comals heavy?
A: Cast iron comals can be heavy. Carbon steel comals are usually lighter.
Q: Can I put a comal in the dishwasher?
A: No, never put a cast iron or carbon steel comal in the dishwasher. It will ruin the seasoning and cause rust.
Q: What other foods can I cook on a comal besides tortillas?
A: You can cook quesadillas, pancakes, grill vegetables, sear meats, and toast nuts and seeds.
Q: How long do comals last?
A: With proper care, a good quality comal can last for many, many years, even generations.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
I’m the recipe developer and food photographer behind Air Fryer at Tiffany’s. I’m also a wife, mom to two adventurous little boys, registered nurse, and live in the great Midwest. Join me as I show you new ways to use your air fryer that you never knew possible.