A comal is a smooth, flat griddle typically used in Mexico, Central America, and parts of South America to cook tortillas and arepas, toast spices and nuts, sear meat, and generally prepare food. Similar cookware is called a budare in South America. Some comals are concave and made of barro (clay). These are still made and used by the indigenous peoples of Mexico and Central America. Comals are similar to the American griddle or the Indian tava, and are often used and named interchangeably with these. Comals for home use are generally made from heavy cast iron, and sized to fit over either one...