The purpose of using a Tagine (known as a “Middle Eastern Slow Cooker�) is to cook your dish for a long time at low heat. The steam rises up the conical top and falls back into the dish keeping it succulent and juicy. The aroma as it cooks is delicious.The base of your Gourmet du Village Tagine is suitable for use on a “Stovetop� and with good care it will last you a very long time. Follow the enclosed tips to ensure you get many years of enjoyment from your Tagine.This Tagine is designed without the hole at the top. We have made sure that the lid fits loosely on the base. We find our tagine cooks best when you slide the lid slightly to the side to allow the steam to vent.We hope you enjoy cooking many healthy wholesome dishes in your new tagine for you and your family or friends. The recipes we have included are only two of the hundreds of tagine recipes available in the world. ENJOY!