The Cherokee used fire, like most other people did at the time (before the invention of the Microwave Oven).
The women would cook, for everyone to eat.
Hunting
well they just make it on tv to show what other things people can try to have for dinner... for like a new expirience.
I can't give an exact answer as I'm researching it myself but i know it has to do with friction between moecules as they heat. hope this helps and i hope someone can expand on this.