RHS Tatton Show 2006: Oven

Adapted from a traditional design by Andy Kirman and built by Laura and Ralphy.

Oven and wine rack

The oven is built from earth which has a 20% clay content with straw mixed in for strength. A dome of wet sand is built over fire bricks, then a 3cm earth layer is built around the sand leaving a hole for access to the inside. When the clay is solid, the sand is removed and a fire is built inside to set the clay. The oven is now ready to be used.

The way the oven works is by receiving heat from a fire built inside. When hot enough, the fire remains are removed and heat is slowly released from the clay to the inside to cook food: pizza or bread etc. The door maybe kept open at night with the fire burning in order to warm seated guests.

Preparation work surface

RHS Tatton 2006 Menu