The word mangal is derived from the Arabic word manqal (منقل) meaning "portable"[1] and originally referred to portable heaters used by Bedouin to warm tents during the cold desert evenings. The portability of heating equipment – as well as all other belongings – is vital for the Bedouin's nomadic lifestyle. Heating mangal is widely used in light climates where the ambient temperature does not drop too much. It is used as a light indoor or outdoor heater similar to the stove. Today, mangal type heaters are still available either as a camping tool, functional furniture or decorative furniture.
A mangal is typically used to grill various cuts of meat, such as steak, hamburgers, kebab, shashlik, chicken wings and chicken breasts. Roasted vegetables, salads and other cold foods accompany the meal.
