How hot does a Tandoor oven get?
A Tandoor oven can reach extremely high temperatures, typically ranging from 500°C to 900°C (932°F to 1652°F), with some units capable of reaching as high as 1000°C (1832°F). The temperature of a Tandoor oven is crucial in achieving the signature smoky flavor and charred texture characteristic of traditional Indian and Middle Eastern dishes. When preheated, the oven’s interior can become so hot that it can cook naan bread and other types of flatbread in a matter of seconds, while larger items like kebabs and roasted meats may take several minutes to cook through. To achieve optimal results, it’s essential to preheat the Tandoor oven for at least 30 minutes to allow the clay or metal walls to absorb and distribute the heat evenly, ensuring a consistent cooking temperature throughout the cooking process. By mastering the art of cooking with a Tandoor oven, home cooks and professional chefs can create a wide range of delicious and authentic dishes that showcase the unique benefits of this ancient cooking technique.