How to Build a Stone Oven

Dig a hole that is 4 feet wide and about 6 inches deep. Choose a location that is at least 16 feet from any buildings and flammable materials such as trees or dry brush. Fill the hole with gravel.

Lay the first layer of stones on the gravel end to end to create the base of the back of the oven and the two sides. The stones should create a "U" shape with the open portion where the front of the oven will be.

Blend the dry cement mix in a bucket with water according to the instructions on the package. Stir the mixture with a drill and a mixer attachment, or stir it by hand with a stirring stick.

Fill the gaps between the stones with cement using a trowel, then add cement to the top of the stones and put a second layer of stones on top of the first layer. Overlap the stones so that the second layer stones cover the gaps of the first layer. Fill the gaps between the second layer stones, then allow the two layers to dry overnight.

Mix more cement and spread a light coat over the second layer. Add a third layer of stones, filling the gaps between each stone with cement.

Lay one of the oven racks across the center of the oven, then place the metal barrel on the rack. Continue building additional stone layers until the stones reach the top of the barrel. Lay stones on the oven rack around the barrel and in front of the barrel to build up the front of the oven. The barrel acts as a heat diffuser to send the heat up to the food in a controlled manner.

Lay a second oven rack across the stones so that it rests on the top of the barrel. Add additional layers of stones to build up the back and sides of the oven until you have added an additional 2 feet of height.

Place a large flat stone over the top to cover most of the top, leaving an opening for the stove pipe near the rear of the oven to act as a chimney. Place the stove pipe in the gap and layer rocks around it, filling in with cement. Wait 24 hours or more for the cement to dry before using the oven.

Start a fire in the bottom opening under the lower oven rack and place the food on the top rack to cook it. Wear gloves and use long utensils to insert and remove the food from the oven to avoid burns.