Southwestern stewpots, also known as ollas (5 letters), are traditional clay cooking vessels used by Native American tribes in the Southwestern United States. They are typically made of unglazed clay and are used to cook stews, soups, and other dishes. Ollas are often buried in the ground near a fire to keep the food warm and to prevent it from burning. The clay absorbs moisture from the food, creating a flavorful and tender dish.