Wood burning stoves are not just about heating your home; they can also serve as versatile cooking tools. To fully exploit this capability, you need the right cooking accessories. In this article, we will explore essential cooking accessories for wood burning stoves, ensuring you can prepare delicious meals with ease.
Cast Iron Cookware:
Cast iron cookware, such as skillets and Dutch ovens, are excellent choices for wood stove cooking. Their thick, heat-retaining properties make them ideal for slow cooking, frying, baking, and simmering. When using cast iron cookware, preheat them on the stove to ensure even heat distribution.
Trivets and Stove Grates:
Trivets or stove grates are essential to elevate your cookware above the direct flames. They prevent overheating and provide a stable platform for your pots and pans. Using a trivet also allows airflow, which aids in more controlled cooking.
Kettle and Water Boiler:
A dedicated kettle or water boiler for your wood stove can be a game-changer. Whether you need hot water for tea or want to pre-boil water for faster cooking, having one on your stove can save energy and time.
Stovepipe Oven:
If you’re looking to bake, a stovepipe oven is a valuable accessory. It attaches to the stovepipe and provides a small, insulated oven space for baking bread, pizza, or other treats. It’s an excellent addition for those who love fresh, homemade baked goods.
Ash Shovel and Tongs:
When cooking with a wood-burning stove, you’ll need tools to manage the fire. An ash shovel and tongs are crucial for moving hot coals, adjusting the fire, and adding or repositioning logs. Safety and precision are essential when working with an active stove.
Fire-Resistant Gloves:
Your safety is paramount when cooking with a wood stove. Fire-resistant gloves are necessary for handling hot cookware, stoking the fire, or rearranging logs. They provide protection without compromising dexterity.
Thermometer:
Maintaining the right cooking temperature is key. A stove thermometer will help you monitor the heat inside the stove, ensuring your recipes turn out as expected. This is particularly important when baking.
Pipe Damper:
A pipe damper is a control device that regulates the airflow and temperature in your stove. It’s a valuable tool for adjusting the heat when cooking. By partially closing the damper, you can simmer dishes or reduce the heat while you’re waiting for the next cooking step.
Conclusion
Cooking with wood-burning stoves can be a rewarding experience, but having the right cooking accessories is essential. Cast iron cookware, trivets, kettles, stovepipe ovens, ash shovels, gloves, thermometers, and pipe dampers are the key tools that will enable you to prepare a wide variety of meals. By choosing the right accessories and using them correctly, you can unlock the full culinary potential of your wood stove. Whether you’re simmering a stew, baking bread, or simply making a cup of tea, these accessories will enhance your cooking experience and add a rustic charm to your kitchen.