Stacy Harris explains how to make an earthen oven in this video from GameandGarden.com. As she explains in the video, making an earthen oven can take some work. But the final product is worth it every time.
One step not covered in the video is removing the sand from the interior of the earthen oven. This is what Harris told Living Ready in an e-mail:
As you let the mud dry a few days, you begin scooping out the sand from the entrance. Each day, you scoop out a little more until none is left. That gives it a chance to stay stable, but helps with the drying process.
More detailed instruction about how to make an earthen oven the Stacy Harris way can be found here and here.
One of the most common ways earthen ovens are used is baking bread. Harris mentioned that she'll be making Italian rustic bread soon and posting about it on the website.
Also note that earthen ovens hold their heat. This is ideal for cooking food in the long-term during survival scenarios. Although they must remain stationary, earthen ovens are an efficient use of limited fuel sources.
Harris is Living Ready‘s expert for all things homesteading. Look for more from her here on LivingReadyOnline.com. She's the author of several books about sustainable living for healthy families. Check out her website at GameandGarden.com and her Facebook page.
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