Generally, there are two types of tandoori ovens: gas tandoori oven and electric tandoori ovens. Then there are convection tandoori ovens and microwave tandoori ovens (which employ microwave radiation to cook or heat food) (uses a circulating fan to move hot air around the food inside the tandoori oven).

With this many options, not to mention the diversity of features and styles available, it might be challenging to shop for an tandoori oven. Here are some guidelines to consider when purchasing an tandoori oven, as well as some useful advice.

The placement is key. Whether ‘freestanding’ (placed in a range) or ‘built-in’ in walls (known as wall tandoori ovens), be sure to measure the tandoori oven’s dimensions against the space where you intend to install it. In addition to having sufficient room, the place must be robust enough to hold the unit.

The capability The capacity of the tandoori oven defines its “real” size. The tandoori oven’s capacity relates to the amount of food or container size it can accommodate. Therefore, the “size” you must consider when purchasing an tandoori oven is its inner dimensions (the cavity). Some tandoori ovens may appear enormous on the outside but are actually smaller on the inside.

There are several factors to consider when determining which tandoori oven capacity to purchase. The following are a few examples:

Family composition:

The amount of food you must cook at once (i.e., the tandoori oven’s capacity) is dependent on the size of your household. Listed below are some of the recommended tandoori oven capacities (in litres) for families of various sizes (indicated by the number of members):

• Two individuals – less than 29 litres
• 4 individuals – 20 to 29 litres
• Six members – over 30 gallons

Usage:

The tandoori oven’s capacity should also be determined by the intended purpose. Naturally, an tandoori oven that will be used for genuine cooking of all types will require a larger capacity than one that will be used as a supplement (such as defrosting or reheating food).

Cookware:

Ensure that the dishes (such as baking sheet, pan, and other equipment) you frequently use will fit properly (and allow air to circulate) inside the tandoori oven.

The control panel

The control panel is where you manage and control the following tandoori oven functions and operations:

Mechanical switches with knobs are analogue. Are less expensive but more durable; they may also be less exact due to manual adjustment.

Read: What Is a Tandoor oven and What Are the Advantages of Having One?

Digital – push buttons controlled electrically The most prevalent today, they may be more expensive and less lasting, but their settings are more accurate and precise because everything is preset automatically

Different tandoori ovens have different (and sometimes complex) control panels, but they all typically have the following elements:

Clock or timer displays – appropriately sets the cooking time

Temperature options allow you to set the cooking temperature.

Thermostat – detects and maintains a predetermined temperature in order to halt or increase the flow of heat. This prevents overcooking and overheating of the tandoori oven.

Tandoori oven light – allows you to view the status of the food you are cooking by illuminating the interior of the tandoori oven.

supplementary components Some tandoori ovens may come with the following additional components:

Tandoori oven rack – permits multiple dishes to be placed in the tandoori oven at once; should be sturdy and durable.

Read: A Buyer’s Guide to Countertop Convection Ovens

Rotisserie – a detachable grill with a rotating spit; used for more efficient and uniform grilling.

The additional features. The majority of modern tandoori ovens are equipped with additional (and advanced) functionality, some of which include the following:

This glass allows you to observe the cooking process without having to open the tandoori oven door.

This button, located on the control panel, enables the tandoori oven to clean itself when pressed.

Lockout function – can be a control panel button or a door lock switch, it prevents misuse or unwanted and accidental activities, especially while cleaning the control panel or when there are youngsters in the house.

The price tag Obviously, pricing has a significant impact on everything, therefore it is essential that you determine how much you are willing to spend.

With these tips, you will definitely be able to locate an tandoori oven that is the best value for your money.

Read: Tandoor Ovens For Savings and Survival