Delhi is a city steeped in history and culture, and its cuisine is no exception. The tandoor oven is a central part of Delhi’s culinary tradition, and its craftsmanship is a skill that has been passed down for generations.
What is a tandoor oven?
A tandoor oven is a cylindrical clay oven that is heated by charcoal or wood. The high temperatures inside the tandoor oven, which can reach up to 900 degrees Fahrenheit, cook food quickly and evenly. Tandoori ovens are used to cook a variety of dishes, including chicken, lamb, fish, vegetables, and breads.
The art of tandoor making
The process of making a tandoor oven is a complex one. It begins with the selection of the right type of clay. The clay must be able to withstand the high temperatures of the oven without cracking. Once the clay has been selected, it is mixed with water and other ingredients to form a dough. The dough is then shaped into a cylinder and placed in a mold.
The tandoor oven is then fired in a kiln. The firing process takes several days and is essential for ensuring that the oven is strong and durable. Once the oven has been fired, it is ready to be used for cooking.
Deep tandoor craftsmanship in Delhi
Delhi is home to some of the most skilled tandoor makers in the world. These artisans have been honing their skills for generations and have perfected the art of creating tandoor ovens that are both functional and beautiful.
One of the most important aspects of tandoor making is the selection of the clay. The clay must be of the highest quality in order to withstand the high temperatures of the oven. Delhi’s tandoor makers use a special type of clay that is found in the region. This clay is known for its strength and durability.
Another important aspect of tandoor making is the firing process. The firing process must be carefully controlled in order to ensure that the oven is strong and durable. Delhi’s tandoor makers have developed a unique firing process that produces ovens that are of the highest quality.
The importance of tandoor ovens in Delhi cuisine
Tandoor ovens are an essential part of Delhi’s culinary tradition. The high temperatures inside the tandoor oven cook food quickly and evenly, resulting in dishes that are both delicious and nutritious.
Some of the most popular tandoori dishes include:
- Tandoori chicken: Chicken that is marinated in yogurt and spices and then cooked in a tandoor oven.
- Tandoori roti: A flatbread that is cooked in a tandoor oven.
- Naan bread: A leavened flatbread that is cooked in a tandoor oven.
- Tandoori fish: Fish that is marinated in yogurt and spices and then cooked in a tandoor oven.
- Tandoori vegetables: Vegetables that are marinated in yogurt and spices and then cooked in a tandoor oven.
Conclusion
The deep tandoor craftsmanship in Delhi is a tradition that has been passed down for generations. The skilled artisans of Delhi create tandoor ovens that are both functional and beautiful. These ovens are an essential part of Delhi’s culinary tradition and are used to cook a variety of delicious and nutritious dishes.
Next time you enjoy a tandoori dish in Delhi, take a moment to appreciate the deep craftsmanship that went into making the tandoor oven in which it was cooked.
