What is a Tandoor oven?

A Tandoor oven is a cylindrical clay or metal oven used for cooking in traditional Indian and Asian cuisine. Traditionally, it is made of unglazed clay and fueled with wood or charcoal, but modern Tandoor ovens may be made of metal.

The design of a Tandoor oven reflects the heat of the fire back upon itself, allowing the cooking space to reach temperatures of up to 900 degrees Fahrenheit. Meats and vegetables are usually cooked on skewers lowered into the open top of the oven or balanced across its mouth. Flatbreads such as naan are cooked by slapping the prepared dough against the inside of the Tandoor oven and allowing the intense heat to bake the bread.