Wood stoves are versatile appliances that can do much more than just keep your home warm. In this article, we’ll explore wood stove recipes that go beyond traditional wood-fired pizza. Whether you’re an experienced wood stove user or a beginner, these recipes are designed to be simple and delicious.
- The Basics of Wood Stove Cooking
Before diving into specific recipes, let’s cover some essential technical details for wood stove cooking:
a. Fuel Selection: The choice of wood is crucial. Use seasoned hardwoods like oak, maple, or hickory for a clean, consistent burn. Avoid softwoods like pine, as they can produce excessive creosote and unpleasant flavors.
b. Temperature Control: Wood stoves can achieve a wide range of temperatures. You can control the heat by adjusting the air intake and damper settings. A lower damper and reduced airflow mean lower temperatures, while a fully open damper and more airflow result in higher temperatures.
c. Cooking Tools: For wood stove cooking, you’ll need cast iron cookware like skillets, Dutch ovens, and griddles. These retain and distribute heat evenly, making them ideal for cooking on a wood stove.
- Recipe 1: Wood Stove Roasted Chicken
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, sage)
- Garlic cloves
Instructions:
Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper.
Preheat a cast iron skillet on the wood stove.
Add a drizzle of olive oil to the skillet.
Place the chicken in the skillet, breast side down, and sear until golden brown.
Flip the chicken and add garlic cloves and fresh herbs to the skillet.
Cover with a lid and let it roast on the wood stove, occasionally basting with pan juices until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Recipe 2: Wood Stove Baked Bread
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
Instructions:
In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, sugar, and salt. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it froths.
Add flour and knead the dough until it’s smooth.
Place the dough in a greased Dutch oven and let it rise for 1 hour near the wood stove.
Preheat your wood stove to 375°F (190°C).
Place the Dutch oven inside and bake for 30-40 minutes until the bread is golden brown.
Recipe 3: Wood Stove Apple Crisp
Ingredients:
- 4-5 peeled and sliced apples
- 1 cup oats
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine sliced apples with sugar and cinnamon.
- In another bowl, mix oats, flour, and melted butter until crumbly.
- Layer the apples in a cast iron skillet and top with the oat mixture.
- Cover the skillet and bake near the wood stove until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
Conclusion
Wood stoves are not limited to heating your home; they can also serve as versatile cooking tools. By understanding the basics of wood stove cooking and following these straightforward recipes, you can enjoy delicious meals and treats beyond traditional wood-fired pizza. Experiment with your wood stove and let your culinary creativity shine.