Tag Archives: Chiminea

Cooking in a chiminea?

 

Fun fire… campfires, bonfires, and that long gone but lovingly remembered autumn ritual of leaf burning by the curbside… can still be yours through the noble chiminea,  the popular outdoor potbelly fireplace.

Chimineas are not care-free devices.  They need a certain amount of ongoing maintenance to guarantee the longest life.  Hopefully, you will read this before you buy one so that you can make an informed purchase.

What is a chiminea?

Originating in Mexico in the 17th century, the original chimineas were used to bake bread.  As with the originals, modern chimineas are handmade from raw, wet clay,  giving each chiminea its own personality.  They are actually made from two pieces… the chimney or “stack” made separately from the wood chamber or “base”.  After a short period of air drying, they are joined together to make a seemingly seamless fireplace!

The formed chiminea is allowed to air dry for a few more days and then is baked in a 900+  degree kiln.  Allowing enough drying time as important since chimineas placed into the kiln while too wet will invariably crack.  After thorough cooling, the outside is painted to give a rustic-looking, almost antique appearance.  (Personally, I like the some of the new styles that are made of cast iron because they are resistant to chips, cracks and fading.)

What can be burned in a chiminea?

The chiminea is primarily a wood-burning stove.  Hard woods burn best and produce the least amount of sparks.  Some chiminea users who cook in their chimineas burn charcoal.    One safe way is to first burn some hard wood to form wood coals, which in turn are hot enough to light the charcoal.  You could also use self-lighting charcoal.

Chimineas are for outdoor use only!

Are You Using YOUR Backyard?

Outdoor Firepit

Why retreat to the warmth of the indoors once the weather turns chilly when you can warm up on your deck or patio with one of our many styles of beautiful and affordable Outdoor Fireplaces Stay cozy in the crispness of autumn and winter, and enjoy outdoor meals all year round — Outdoor Fireplaces help extend the time you can use your patio, deck, or backyard.

You may also consider bringing distinction to your patio, deck, or backyard with a unique Chimineas. The chiminea was originally designed and constructed by Mexican artisans to be used as a bread oven, but its charm and beauty have enchanted people for centuries. Today, the chiminea is still a favorite choice for providing warmth during cooler weather.

Alternatively, Outdoor Fireplaces and Fire Pits are a decorative way to get the feel and warmth of a real wood fire crackling in your own backyard. Many outdoor fireplaces even come equipped with wheels for easy portability, so you can quickly move your fireplace from deck to patio to pool side. You may even wish to take your outdoor fireplace with you on your next vacation!

Going camping? Roast marshmallows and hot dogs during your next camping trip when you bring along one of our sturdy, easy to assemble Fire Rings A fire ring is a safe way to contain a camp fire and can be used year-round.

Attractive and simple to clean,  many outdoor fireplaces create a slow burn for a warmer, longer lasting heat without sparking embers. An outdoor fireplace or fire pit burns wood, charcoal, or pressed wood logs.