Clome oven

Clome Oven

A clome oven is a type of masonry oven traditionally used in Cornwall, United Kingdom. It is a historical piece of kitchen equipment, which was primarily used from the medieval period up until the 19th century. Clome ovens were built into the side of a chimney breast, made from local clay, which is where the name "clome" derives, indicating a type of earthenware. These ovens were an essential part of Cornish homes, used for baking a variety of foods, including the famous Cornish pasty, bread, and other baked goods.

Design and Operation

The design of a clome oven is relatively simple yet effective. It consists of a dome-shaped structure built into the chimney, allowing it to utilize the heat from the open fireplace adjacent to it. The oven would be heated by placing wood or coal inside and lighting it to generate heat. Once the desired temperature was reached, the embers would be swept out, and the food to be cooked was placed inside. The residual heat retained by the clay walls of the oven would then cook the food. This method of cooking is known for imparting a unique flavor to the food, a characteristic that is still appreciated in traditional baking methods today.

Cultural Significance

The clome oven holds a special place in Cornish culture and heritage. It is a symbol of the self-sufficiency of Cornish households in the past, where families prepared their meals using locally sourced ingredients and traditional cooking methods. The oven is also closely associated with the preparation of the Cornish pasty, a staple of Cornish cuisine that has gained popularity far beyond the borders of Cornwall. The pasty, traditionally filled with beef, potatoes, swede, and onion, was a convenient meal for tin miners and farm workers, easily transported and reheated, often said to be kept warm on the residual heat of a clome oven.

Preservation and Legacy

Today, clome ovens are found in historical homes and museums throughout Cornwall, where they are preserved as part of the region's rich cultural heritage. They are a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of past generations, and their preservation allows current and future generations to appreciate the traditional ways of life in Cornwall. The clome oven also serves as an inspiration for modern sustainable living practices, emphasizing the use of local materials and energy efficiency.

See Also

• Masonry oven
• Cornish pasty
• Traditional food
• Cultural heritage