In today's fast-paced era, most households rely on gas cylinders and induction cooktops to prepare meals. These modern appliances cook food quickly and require minimal effort. However, there was a time when almost every home, from villages to cities, used traditional mud stoves for cooking. The distinct flavor of food cooked over a mud stove remains unmatched and beloved by many. Yet, as times changed, their usage declined significantly, and ready-made mud stoves are no longer readily available in local markets.
If you wish to relive the nostalgic experience of cooking over a traditional fire pit, you can easily build one right at your home without needing expensive equipment or exhausting effort. With just some basic soil found around your neighborhood, a functional mud stove can be crafted in no time. Rajkumari shared the complete procedure with Local 18, explaining how anyone can make it.
According to Rajkumari, the process begins by gathering essential materials such as black sticky clay, a small amount of husk, and water. Next, water is added to the soil as needed, and it is thoroughly kneaded into a uniform consistency. A small quantity of husk is mixed into this clay. Adding husk provides structural strength to the mixture and helps in shaping the stove properly.
Following this preparation, the kneaded clay is shaped into a round or square structure standing about 6 to 7 inches tall. A small opening must also be crafted at the front of the structure to insert firewood easily. Once the basic framework is ready, it is left out in the open to dry thoroughly. Depending on the weather conditions and ambient humidity levels, the stove can take anywhere between 2 to 3 days to dry completely.
When the stove is completely dry, a liquid mixture of clay and water can be applied over its surface to give it a smooth finish. Through this simple method using black clay, husk, and water, a sturdy mud stove can be successfully built at home. However, before putting it to use, ensure that the structure is completely dry and structurally sound. It should always be operated in an open or well-ventilated area because burning wood produces smoke.
