The Art of Tandoori Cooking in tandoor oven or clay tandoori oven

The Ancient Art of Tandoor Cooking: Bringing Tradition to Your Kitchen

Indian cuisine is famous for its delightful aromas, rich spices, and vibrant flavors that can surprise anyone who tries them for the first time. But one of the oldest and most essential parts of this cuisine is the use of a special clay oven known as the Tandoor. This cooking tradition started in the Indian subcontinent, particularly in India and Pakistan, over 3,000 years ago. Today, it remains a popular way to cook, especially in households and restaurants that celebrate traditional recipes.

The Tandoor’s clay structure forms a dome around the flame, creating an environment perfect for cooking foods like naan and meats. Clay retains heat better than most materials, making the Tandoor an efficient cooking tool that can last longer than standard ovens.

In ancient times, people mainly used the Tandoor to bake naan. The word “naan” actually originates from the old Persian language, meaning “bread.” Those who mastered the art of baking naan were called “naanvaras,” with “vara” meaning “person” in ancient dialects. These bakers carried forward the tradition of baking this special bread in Tandoors for centuries, and they continue to do so even today.

How Does a Tandoor Work?

You might wonder, why is cooking in a rounded clay oven different from using a regular flat oven? The Tandoor offers a unique way of cooking that keeps foods like naan light and fluffy while still giving them a crispy crust. The secret is in how the tandoor distributes heat. The walls of the Tandoor heat up evenly when the flame is kept low. Experienced bakers and cooks, often known as “naan walas,” know how to find the perfect spots inside the Tandoor to get those characteristic uneven, crispy edges on the naan.

Making naan involves shaping the dough, much like making pizza, before sticking it to the hot walls of the Tandoor. Once inside, the naan starts puffing up and cooking as it clings to the heated clay. To keep the bread from getting too hot or burning, the cook uses a special tool called a skewer to move the naan around and adjust its position if needed.

What Else Can You Cook in a Tandoor?

The Tandoor is not just for baking naan. With temperatures ranging between 500°F to 900°F, it can grill and steam various dishes, making it incredibly versatile. Besides naan, people use the Tandoor to cook marinated meats like chicken and lamb, which gives them a unique smoky flavor. To prepare Tandoori chicken, one of India’s most celebrated dishes, chefs marinate the meat in spices and yogurt before cooking it inside the hot Tandoor. They place skewers holding the meat vertically, allowing the heat to cook the meat evenly from all sides. This vertical cooking style helps lock in the flavors while letting excess fat drip off, resulting in juicy, flavorful meat with a slightly charred surface.

But don’t think the Tandoor is only for meat lovers. It also does wonders with vegetables. Marinated mushrooms, peppers, onions, and tomatoes are commonly cooked in the Tandoor, where the high heat brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables while adding a smoky touch. The result is a medley of flavors that feels just as satisfying as any meat dish.

Why Cook with a Tandoor?

Using a Tandoor brings a lot more to the table than just flavor. The cooking process itself is unique and different from other methods, giving food a texture and taste that you can’t get with an ordinary oven or stovetop. Here are some reasons why a Tandoor stands out:

 

1. 1. High Heat for Quick Cooking: The Tandoor’s clay structure allows it to reach high temperatures quickly. This heat helps seal in the juices of meats and adds a crisp texture to breads without drying them out.

1. 1. Natural Smoky Flavor: As the juices from meats or vegetables drip onto the hot coals at the bottom of the Tandoor, they create smoke, which adds a natural smoky taste to the food. It’s an effect similar to barbecuing but with a more distinct flavor.

1. 1. Versatile Cooking Options: A Tandoor cooks more than just one type of food. You can grill meats, bake breads, and even roast vegetables all in the same oven. This makes it an all-in-one cooking solution for many traditional dishes.

1. 1. Healthier Cooking: When cooking meats, the fat drips off naturally due to the vertical position of the skewers. This results in a dish that has less fat content compared to pan-frying or other cooking methods.

1. 1. Brings Tradition to Life: There’s something special about using a Tandoor that goes beyond just cooking. It connects you to centuries-old traditions, making every meal a little bit more meaningful.

Exploring the World of Tandoori Dishes

If you’re new to cooking with a Tandoor, here are some popular dishes that showcase its versatility:

1. Tandoori Chicken

Chefs consider Tandoori chicken one of the most iconic dishes to cook in a Tandoor. They marinate the chicken in a blend of yogurt and spices like turmeric, cumin, and garam masala. After marinating, they place the chicken on skewers and cook it inside the Tandoor until the outer layer becomes slightly charred, while the inside stays tender and juicy. This dish is often served with naan and chutney on the side.

2. Tandoori Paneer Tikka

For those who prefer vegetarian options, Tandoori Paneer Tikka is a delightful choice. Paneer, an Indian cottage cheese, is cut into cubes and marinated in a mixture of yogurt, lemon juice, and spices. The cubes are then skewered and cooked in the Tandoor, giving them a smoky flavor and crispy texture on the outside, while staying soft inside.

3. Naan Bread

Naan is one of the simplest yet most beloved dishes that can be made in a Tandoor. The dough is flattened and slapped onto the walls of the Tandoor, where it sticks and bakes. The high heat causes the naan to puff up and form beautiful brown spots, giving it a chewy texture that’s perfect for scooping up curry or dipping in sauces.

4. Tandoori Fish

Seafood also works beautifully in a Tandoor. Fish like salmon or pomfret can be marinated with Indian spices and yogurt, then cooked on skewers. The intense heat quickly sears the fish, locking in moisture and adding a subtle smoky touch.

5. Tandoori Vegetables

Mixing vegetables like bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, and mushrooms on skewers and cooking them in a Tandoor makes for a healthy and flavorful dish. The heat brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables while adding a crispy char.

What Makes the Tandoor Special?

You might wonder why so many people still choose to cook with a Tandoor in modern times. While there are many cooking appliances available, the Tandoor offers something that’s hard to replicate: the unique combination of high heat, smoky flavor, and traditional cooking style.

• Heat Retention: The clay walls of the Tandoor can hold and distribute heat more effectively than metal ovens. This even heating ensures that food cooks quickly and evenly, without the need for constant monitoring.
• Natural Flavor: The juices and marinades drip down onto the hot coals, creating a fragrant smoke that infuses the food with a deep, earthy flavor. It’s a flavor that’s hard to achieve with electric ovens or stovetops.
• Cultural Connection: Using a Tandoor brings a sense of tradition into the kitchen. It’s a way to connect with the past, honoring the methods that have been passed down through generations. This connection makes cooking feel more like an art form than a chore.

Using a Tandoor at Home

While traditional Tandoors are large and permanent fixtures, modern versions come in sizes suitable for home use. If you’re interested in trying Tandoori cooking, you can find smaller, portable Tandoors that work just as well for personal kitchens or backyard cooking.

Tips for First-Time Users

 

1. 1. Start with Naan: Baking naan is a great way to get comfortable with using a Tandoor. It’s quick, easy, and lets you get a feel for how the heat works.

1. 1. Use the Right Skewers: Choose skewers that fit your Tandoor’s size and the type of food you’re cooking. For meats, use thicker skewers, and for vegetables, choose thinner ones.

1. 1. Marinate Your Food: Whether it’s meat or vegetables, marinating adds extra flavor and helps keep the food moist during cooking.

1. 1. Preheat the Tandoor Properly: Make sure the Tandoor is hot enough before placing the food inside. This ensures even cooking and gives the food that signature charred look.

1. 1. Be Safe: The Tandoor gets extremely hot, so always use protective gloves and tools to handle the skewers.

Caring for Your Tandoor

To keep your Tandoor in good shape, you need to take care of it properly. Here’s how to maintain it:

 

• • Clean it Regularly: After each use, remove ash and debris from the bottom. This keeps the airflow clear and helps the Tandoor maintain high temperatures.

• • Repair Cracks in the Clay: Over time, the clay inside might develop small cracks. You can fix these using a clay mixture to patch them up.

• • Cover It When Not in Use: If your Tandoor is outside, cover it to protect it from rain or moisture. This prevents the clay from absorbing too much water and weakening.

• • Avoid Sudden Temperature Changes: Let the Tandoor cool down naturally after use. Pouring cold water into a hot Tandoor can cause cracks in the clay.

Why Tandoor Cooking Is Making a Comeback

In recent years, there’s been a renewed interest in traditional cooking methods. People are looking for ways to add more flavor and authenticity to their meals, and the Tandoor is a perfect tool for that. Here’s why:

 

• • Back to Basics: Many people want to return to simple, natural ways of cooking. Using a Tandoor means cooking without the need for complicated gadgets, bringing the focus back to the food itself.

• • Artisanal Touch: With so many mass-produced foods available, handmade dishes cooked in a Tandoor stand out. They feel more special and carry a sense of craftsmanship.

• • Healthier Cooking: Since cooking in a Tandoor doesn’t require much oil, it offers a healthier way to prepare dishes. The high heat helps cook food quickly, locking in nutrients.

• • Social Experience: Cooking with a Tandoor can also be a social event. Whether in a backyard setting or a family gathering, the process of baking naan and grilling meats becomes a shared experience, adding to the enjoyment.

Exploring Tandoor Morni’s Tandoors

At Tandoor Morni, we take pride in bringing traditional Tandoor cooking into modern kitchens. We provide Tandoors designed to meet the needs of today’s home cooks while staying true to traditional methods. Our Tandoors come in various sizes, making them suitable for both small kitchens and larger outdoor setups.

We encourage families to experience the joy of Tandoori cooking together. Watching moms and dads pull freshly baked naan from the Tandoor, sharing delicious meals, and enjoying the moment adds something special to every meal. It’s about more than just cooking—it’s about keeping traditions alive.

Why Try Tandoor Morni’s Tandoors?

Our Tandoors offer the best of both worlds: traditional craftsmanship and modern convenience. Here’s why you should consider one:

 

1. 1. Variety of Sizes: We offer different sizes to fit your needs, from compact Tandoors for small kitchens to larger models for backyard cooking.

1. 1. Durable Design: Made with high-quality clay, our Tandoors are built to last, providing consistent heat and authentic flavors.

1. 1. User-Friendly: Our Tandoors are designed with the home cook in mind. They come with easy-to-follow instructions, making them perfect for beginners.

1. 1. Enhanced Flavor: Tandoor Morni’s Tandoors bring out the best in your ingredients, giving every dish that delicious smoky taste.

Cooking Together with a Tandoor: A Cultural Experience

In many ways, cooking with a Tandoor goes beyond just preparing food. It connects you with a cultural tradition that has been passed down for generations. Whether it’s baking naan, grilling meats, or roasting vegetables, the process adds a sense of warmth and community to your kitchen.

Families and friends can gather around the Tandoor, enjoying the sights and smells as the food cooks. It’s a chance to share not just a meal, but an experience. This is why many people choose to use a Tandoor—not just for the taste, but for the tradition.

Bringing the Domestic Clay Tandoor Experience Home

If you’re looking to bring a piece of tradition into your home, consider adding a Domestic Clay Tandoor to your cooking setup. It allows you to explore the art of Tandoori cooking without needing a large commercial space. Whether you’re making naan, Tandoori chicken, or grilled vegetables, the Tandoor lets you create restaurant-quality dishes right in your backyard or kitchen.

So, light up the Tandoor, roll out some dough, and let the magic of this ancient cooking method elevate your meals. It’s not just about cooking; it’s about creating memories and connecting with a rich culinary history.

About Tandoor Morni

Tandoor Morni, in business since 1992, is a trusted name in premium Tandoori Clay Ovens, known for crafting high-quality traditional and commercial tandoors. With a commitment to excellence, Tandoor Morni offers a wide range of tandoors, including commercial, residential, catering, and copper models. Our tandoors are built with durable materials and designed for efficient heat distribution, ensuring authentic flavors and fast cooking. Each oven features customizable options like gas, wood fire, or charcoal compatibility, making them suitable for various cooking needs. For more information or to place an order, contact us at Phone Number: +1(727) 251 6924 or email us at info@tandoormorni.com. Visit our website at www.tandoormorni.com to explore our full range of products.