Originating in Mexico some 400 years ago, the chimenea (also spelled chiminea) is a ceramic stove with a bulbous body and a narrow chimney used for outdoor cooking and heating.
The design of the chimenea makes it effective at containing heat in a confined area while directing the flow of smoke upward and away from its close surroundings. The opening in its face makes it convenient to add fuel to the fire and for viewing the flames.
Originally used for cooking or heating indoors, most chimeneas today are situated outdoors in a backyard setting. Most are still made of terracotta clay, but cast iron, steel, and aluminum models are also available.
Pinyon wood is the most common wood burned in chimeneas in Mexico and the Southwest. Hardwoods like oak, cedar, apple and cherry are also good, but softwoods and pressure-treated lumber are not recommended as they produce excessive and sometimes toxic smoke.
Beyond their use for heating and cooking, chimeneas provide a cozy and rustic ambience in outdoor spaces. This is probably their greatest appeal today.
