The tandoor, a clay oven, is commonly used for cooking various dishes in India

The tandoor, a traditional clay oven, holds a special place in Indian cuisine. It is typically made from clay and is cylindrical in shape. The walls of the tandoor can reach extremely high temperatures, allowing for quick and even cooking. It's a versatile cooking tool that imparts a unique smoky flavor and tenderness to a variety of dishes.

Tandoors in Indian foods are used for cooking an array of dishes, from bread to meats and vegetables. Naan, a soft and fluffy Indian bread, is a staple cooked in the tandoor. The dough is slapped onto the oven's inner walls, where it puffs up and becomes deliciously charred and smoky.

Meats like chicken, lamb, and fish are marinated in a mixture of yogurt and spices, then skewered and cooked in the tandoor. The intense heat of the tandoor sears the meat, creating a flavorful, slightly charred exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender.

The tandoor not only adds a unique dimension to Indian foods but also symbolizes the rich culinary traditions of the country. Its versatility and ability to infuse dishes with a smoky, earthy essence make it an indispensable tool in Indian kitchens and a celebrated aspect of Indian cuisine.