There’s something quietly satisfying about cooking outdoors when the air turns crisp. Tandoor ovens have a long-standing reputation for producing bold, smoky flavours you just can’t recreate with a regular grill. Whether you’re slow-roasting meats, baking naan, or experimenting with skewered veg, a tandoor brings heat, character and charm to your alfresco cooking sessions.
For those thinking of bringing one into their garden experience, picking the right tandoor might seem a bit overwhelming. From selecting the proper size to deciding how it’s fuelled, there’s more to it than you might think. This guide is designed to break down the different options clearly and simply, so you feel confident choosing the right tandoor that suits your cooking style, space, and sense of occasion.
Understanding The Different Types Of Tandoor Ovens
Before making a choice, it’s helpful to understand how different types of tandoor ovens work. Where you're cooking, what you're cooking, and how often you’ll use it can shape which type will serve you best.
One of the older and most traditional materials used is clay or earthen tandoors. These are known for producing very high heat, which is great for fast cooking when making naan or marinated meats. They offer rich flavours and are often used when authenticity is key. The trade-off is that they tend to be fragile, heavy to move and need careful handling, especially in wet or cold weather.
Stainless steel tandoors bring strength and better weather protection. They still offer great flavour but are generally easier to maintain. Many come with wheels for added flexibility and can be placed in patios, decks or garden shelters. They’re often chosen for their practicality, especially in wetter climates like the UK.
It’s also worth thinking about how the tandoor is powered. Traditional charcoal-fired models produce that smoky flavour and encourage a slower, more relaxed way of cooking. Gas-fired tandoors offer quick ignition and more control, ideal if you want something efficient with minimal prep. Then there are electric tandoors. These are better suited for indoor or covered setups and provide a cleaner option when outdoor space is limited.
Here’s a quick breakdown to make comparison easier:
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Clay tandoor: authentic flavour, high heat, more fragile, best for dry, moderate climates
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Stainless steel tandoor: durable, easier to clean, great for year-round outdoor use
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Charcoal-fired: earthy flavour, slow cooking process, great for traditional recipes
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Gas-fired: consistent heat, faster ignition, less smoke
- Electric: clean and compact, ideal for indoor or enclosed areas
Thinking about whether you’ll keep your tandoor outdoors year-round or store it away during colder months can also help guide your decision. A portable design might suit someone with limited space or shared garden areas, while a heavier model is better for establishing a permanent cooking corner.
Key Features To Look For
Once you’ve chosen the type of tandoor, focus on features that matter for long-term use. These are the things that will make the difference between a satisfying purchase and an underused garden ornament.
1. Size and capacity: Look at how many people you usually cook for. A smaller tandoor works well for solo cooks or couples, while medium to large units suit family use or regular entertaining. The internal diameter gives you a sense of how much you can cook at once.
2. Materials and build: Steel walls with double insulation trap and distribute heat better than a single layer. Also check how the lid seals. A snug-fitting lid holds in heat and creates an even cooking environment.
3. Temperature control: Gas and electric models often come with control dials. For charcoal tandoors, managing heat means adjusting vents or fuel and takes more hands-on experience. That control, though, can be part of the charm and flavour.
4. Useful accessories: Some extras can make a big difference. Look for:
- Skewers sized to fit your tandoor’s depth
- Heatproof gloves and long-handled tools
- Cooking trays or baking stones for added versatility
- A weatherproof cover for year-round protection
- Ash trays or pull-out drawers for easy clean-up
Also think about whether the tandoor is easy to move. Handles, lockable wheels or folding legs make it more manageable when rearranging your outdoor space.
Taking time to get these details right at the start saves hassle later, especially when you’re preparing a meal and want everything to go seamlessly.
Budget Considerations
Understanding price ranges will help you avoid surprises or unnecessary expenses. Tandoor ovens vary significantly in cost, depending on materials, size, fuel type and features.
A lower cost doesn’t always mean poor quality, but it’s worth checking what features are included. Some budget-friendly models may lack decent insulation or accessories like skewers and covers, which means extra expenses later. On the other end, premium tandoors usually come with higher-quality materials, better heat retention and thoughtful features aimed at improving your cooking experience.
When reviewing your budget, consider:
- What’s included with the tandoor (some may not come with tools or covers)
- Whether it needs a specific fuel source, like gas bottles or high-grade charcoal
- Long-term maintenance needs, such as replacement liners or parts
- Storage considerations, such as a separate shelter or weatherproof cover
If you plan on using it often and want it to last for years, spending a little extra upfront can make sense. Not only will your food taste better, but you’ll likely avoid repairs or replacements that cut into your total value.
Installation And Maintenance Tips
Getting your tandoor set up properly starts before the first cook. No matter the size or design, make sure it’s placed on a stable, flat area. Concrete or stone paving works well. Avoid using grass or decking, especially with charcoal or gas models, as heat can damage these surfaces.
Follow installation instructions especially when it comes to clearance from walls or coverings. Some tandoors get hot on the outside and need good airflow. Leave room around it and be mindful of wind direction so smoke doesn’t blow into the house or right across your seating area.
For maintenance, here’s what we recommend:
- Empty ash or old fuel after every charcoal cook
- Let the oven cool fully before wiping down exterior metal surfaces
- For stainless steel, use a soft cloth with water for clean-up
- Clay models may show small cracks; these are normal but sealing them early helps
- During wetter months, cover your tandoor or move it indoors for better protection
If your tandoor stays outdoors year-round, check it regularly. Autumn debris like wet leaves can sit on top, while rain and frost may seep in around exposed edges. Quick checks now and then keep everything working well and let you plan confidently for your next cookout.
Choosing The Right Tandoor To Elevate Your Cooking Experience
Choosing your first tandoor isn’t about adding just another tool to your outdoor setup. It’s about crafting a different kind of experience. From the ritual of lighting the fuel to the smell of spices hitting flame, a tandoor brings food and guests together in a uniquely vibrant way.
Think about how you like to cook and entertain. Consider what setup suits your space and which features matter most for the kind of meals you enjoy. Whether it’s quick weekday grilling or slow, social Sunday lunches, there’s a tandoor out there to match your rhythm.
With the right information at hand, buying a tandoor becomes far less complicated. Once you’ve chosen the design that fits your lifestyle, you’ll be set to enjoy all the flavour, heat and charm a real tandoor has to offer. Going forward, every gathering becomes a little more special, every dish a little more distinct, cooked just how it should be.
Enhance your outdoor cooking with a unique, authentic touch. At Fire and Frost, our range of tandoor ovens brings magic to your garden gatherings. If you're ready to buy tandoor options that combine quality with timeless charm, explore our curated selection. Let every meal become a delightful experience to savour with the perfect tandoor to suit your lifestyle.
