An Anafre is the name of the clay pot where usually hot coal is placed on the bottom to heat up the dish placed on its top. As you can see it has several holes to let some oxygen in and keep the coal lit. Usually the anafres contain fried red or black beans with cheese fondue on top. Also other ingredients that might be added are peppers and chorizo. In order to eat this delicious dip, tortilla chips accompany the appetizer. Beautifully made, create and cook your dish in this Authentic and Traditional Anafre pot. Anafre is made of Barro, by artisans living in the Oaxacan highlands. The red clay is gathered from the surrounding hills. Bits of wood, stone and corn are used as tools to mould the clay on a traditional banding wheel. The pottery is burnished using a stone and brush to give it a smooth unglazed finish. Finally it is pit fired under corrugated metal with wood, sawdust and cardboard. This technique has been passed down through generations for hundreds of years in this village. The results are earthy, stunning and a pleasure to use. Clay has been traditionally used in Mexican cooking because the clay imparts a specific flavor to the foods that can't be reproduced in a metal pot. Before use, be sure to cure by using a simple seasoning process before you use this Barro piece. Fill with water and place it over a direct flame. Allow the water to boil for a few minutes then remove from the heat and discard. Do this twice. Add a bit of Mexican pottery to your table with this gorgeous handmade Anafre De Barro piece. There are no breaks, but please keep in mind that this clay material is hand handled, shaped and made; minimal chipping is natural. Anafre is ready for use and certainly to add a bit of Mexican style decor to any table setting or folk kitchen. Anafre is 100 % Lead Free and safe to use. Versatile for your cooking needs or for decor, with this product you aren’t just buying a dish but rather a piece of Artistry. Anafre is 8”H x 8”D