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La Chamba Imports
3 Underleat Close, ChudleighTQ13 0PS
01626 859004
History of La Chamba
February 2007 marks the launch of La Chamba Imports, the exciting new import company own by Carolina and Simon Wheeler that is the result of big ambitions, wild dreams and a passion for fine cooking.
Five years ago I arrived in the UK with my two children to make a new start in life with my English husband. In Colombia we were accustomed to using traditional handmade cookware, so when I came to the UK of course I brought some of it with me to use. When my husband first saw it he was very impressed by the versatility, elegant appearance and how easy it was to clean. This gave us an idea…
For many years I have been involved in retail sales and have often thought that it would be fantastic to build and manage my own business; not only did I want to be successful but I wanted to be able to give something back to the community. Now that I am based in the UK, so far away from my own home, the desire to be successful for the sake of my family’s future, as well as the grave needs of my own country, has been growing constantly. Gradually, after much planning and various doors being opened along the way, we are finally on the right track to building our dream. Hopefully it will provide as much satisfaction for our customers as it has for us.
In this fast-paced, high-pressure world, there comes a point when one must take some time out to really consider the best approach to running a business. La Chamba Imports is a company that is prepared to give its best efforts to the community. Our company will be importing a beautiful handmade product that for centuries has been produced by the indigenous inhabitants of Colombia—a nation with a varied and rich culture from which to learn. For generation after generation, the Pijaos Indians have devoted their lives to the production and perfection of these dishes. Not only are they unique but they are created with true craftsmanship.
One of the primary aims of the company is to provide our customers with an attractive, practical and elegant piece of art, backed by a long history and fascinating culture that not many people know about. Additionally, this approach contributes to the economy of Colombia, generating income for the local artisans.
The Product
Prepare to be seduced by La Chamba’s elegant and practical organic cookware, which has been in use in kitchens around the world for centuries.
Add ease, style and flair to your food preparation with our selection of handmade organic cookware and tableware. We have a wide selection of versatile clayware for roasting, casseroles, and slow cooking, as well as serving dishes and many other designs for use not only in food preparation but also in stylish food presentation.
This organic product is safe to use in the oven and on the hob, whether it is electric, ceramic, Aga/Rayburn or even the direct flame of a gas ring. It can also be used under the grill and in the microwave. All this versatility, plus a beautiful product that looks great on the dining table, gives your cooking and entertaining a special and unique touch. Also, the clay’s excellent insulating properties mean that food stays hotter for longer. It should, however, be hand-washed only, to avoid discoloration.
These beautifully crafted pieces of art are made by the Pijaos Colombian Indians, who for hundreds of years have perfected the unique production technique. The clayware is ideal for cooking, food storing and serving, and has enjoyed universal appeal since as early as when the first Spanish adventurers visited South America.
This clayware is made from organic products, meaning that it is 100% ‘safe’ cooking, and non-stick coatings are not necessary because of the unique satin surface finish of the clay, which also makes for easy cleaning. The natural clay contains no toxins, such as lead, and no glazes are applied. The satin finish is achieved by polishing the clay surface with pebbles. You can feel safe and confident using this unique and authentic traditional clay cookware and tableware.
The clay itself is extracted from mines located around La Chamba village in Colombia. With the use of donkeys or bicycles, the Indians transport the clay necessary for daily production to the various workshops. The clay is dried and converted into powder with the use of a mortar, and all the impurities are removed using sieves. After that, the clay powder is mixed with water to produce a soft and flexible dough ready for moulding.
In an attempt to keep costs down, La Chamba imports this product directly from the artisans in Colombia.