Cooking in nature faces challenges such as limited space, time and resources; Therefore, choosing tools that are light, functional and multi-purpose plays a key role in the quality of your trip.
Nature trips and camping are among the most exciting moments of our lives; But to enjoy all the moments of your trip, it is very important to use the right cooking equipment. Equipment such as portable ovens, foldable or light containers, multi-purpose knives and suitable storage devices, provide you with the possibility to prepare diverse and delicious meals with the least facilities. Also, paying attention to easy portability and resistance of tools to environmental conditions, such as heat or humidity, are essential points. Having the right equipment not only improves the quality of the trip, but also makes cooking moments a pleasant and relaxing experience.
Learn more about cooking equipment in nature:
List of the most essential cooking equipment in nature
In order to cook in nature, it is very important to choose the necessary equipment so that both the food is delicious and the cooking process becomes easier. Following is the list of necessary equipment:
Cooking utensils
Cookware should be light, durable and resistant to direct heat. Pans and small pots made of aluminum or stainless steel are suitable options; Because they are light in weight and heat up quickly.
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Kettle or boiling water container is also very necessary to prepare hot drinks or use in foods that require boiling water. Using portable plates, bowls and cups made of unbreakable plastic or folding silicone also saves space and reduces weight.
Gas stove or travel torch
The travel stove or gas burner is one of the key tools for cooking in nature due to its lightness and high efficiency. These devices can be connected to small gas capsules and are suitable for cooking food or boiling water.
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For times when you run out of gas, alternative fuels such as fuel tablets or alcohol can be very helpful.
Cooking tools
Having the right tools will make your job easier. Multipurpose knife is very useful for chopping food and doing other tasks. Small cutting board prevents scratching surfaces and damage to equipment.
Light and durable spoons, forks and spatulas, preferably made of silicone or stainless steel, will help you cook without any hassle. Folding colanders also take up little space for washing vegetables or rinsing food.
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Storage and packaging equipment
To store food, it is necessary to use tightly closed containers to prevent the penetration of air and moisture. Ziplock bags are also a good option for carrying dry ingredients such as rice, spices and snacks. Aluminum foil can also be used to cook food on fire, cover food, or even store leftover food.
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Cleaning and hygiene
Maintaining health in nature is very important. A piece of sponge and some eco-friendly soap are essential for washing dishes and reducing pollution.
Carry small towels or napkins to dry dishes or clean surfaces. Be sure to use garbage bags to collect garbage and return it to the city.
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suitable food
In nature, it is better to use dry and long-lasting food such as pasta, rice and oats, which are light in weight and quick to prepare. Canned food is an ideal option because it is ready and does not require refrigeration. For a snack or to provide energy, dried fruit and nuts also have low weight and high nutritional value.
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Peripheral equipment
Always include a waterproof lighter or match on your must-have list, because you can’t cook without fire. A utility knife or small pocket knife is also useful for opening cans, cutting ingredients, or doing other tasks. A water bottle or tank is very important for carrying drinking water and preventing dehydration. Also, a small spice jar with different divisions makes it easier to taste nature’s simple foods.
Torches, dishes and stoves suitable for camping
Choosing the right travel torch, dishes and camping stove, according to the needs, the type of trip and the number of people, can make your cooking experience in nature more enjoyable.
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Utensils suitable for camping
Camping containers are usually made of materials such as anodized aluminum, stainless steel and titanium. These materials are light in weight, distribute heat evenly, and are resistant to impact and heat. Camping containers often have a foldable or multipurpose design. For example, a pot may have a lid that can be used as a pan.
Some of these dishes have a non-stick coating, which makes them easier to wash in nature. Silicone or compressed plastic containers are also used for plates, bowls and glasses, and due to their light weight and folding ability, they occupy less space. Also, containers that can be placed inside each other make transportation much easier.
Camping stoves
Camping stoves are perfect for situations where you need a steady, strong flame, especially if you plan to cook for several people. These stoves are usually bigger and heavier than the burners; But they are more stable and allow cooking several pots at the same time. Some models run on multi-purpose fuels such as LPG, petrol or even wood and are suitable for longer journeys. There are also ovens with internal combustion system, temperature control, folding bases and wind deflectors.
The best brands of outdoor cooking equipment
Several brands are active in the field of outdoor cooking equipment and each has its own characteristics. Note, choosing the right brand depends on your type of trip, needs and budget. In the following, we introduce some of the best brands in this field.
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- brand “Jetboil” (Jetboil) It is one of the most famous brands in the production of gas burners and integrated cooking systems. The products of this brand are designed with a focus on the speed of boiling water and saving fuel. “Flash” or “MiniMo” torches are very popular among professional mountaineers and hikers who need light and efficient equipment.
- MSR It is a well-known brand in camping and hiking equipment such as torches and stoves, dishes and food storage equipment. “PocketRocket” burners and multi-fuel stoves such as “WhisperLite” are among the best-selling products of this brand.
- Coleman It is one of the old and reliable brands in the field of camping and outdoor equipment. The products of this brand are very popular for family camping due to their reasonable price and acceptable performance.
- brand “Snowhawk” (SnowHawk) It is known for producing high-quality, durable and affordable camping equipment. Cooking utensils, burners and ovens of this brand have a simple and stylish design and are suitable for people who care about light weight and durability.
- brand “Sea to Summit” Yashtar is active in the field of manufacturing foldable and lightweight containers and multipurpose cooking tools for camping. The silicone containers of this brand, such as “X-Series”, are very practical and take up little space.
- brand Outwell It is another prominent brand in the field of camping cooking equipment for families. Multi-burner stoves, sets of dishes and accessories of this brand are considered a suitable option for longer trips and group camping.
Safety tips in using travel cooking equipment
Using travel cooking equipment in nature requires compliance with safety tips to prevent accidents and not harm the environment. The most important safety points are:
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- Always place cooking equipment on a flat and stable surface to prevent it from tipping over.
- Avoid cooking in closed places, such as inside a tent; Because there is a risk of suffocation due to gas accumulation or fire.
- Keep a safe distance from flammable materials, such as dry leaves, sticks or plastic items.
- Check gas canisters for leaks before use.
- Avoid exposing the capsules to heat or direct sunlight.
- If you are using multi-fuel stoves (gasoline or alcohol), fill the fuel carefully away from the flame and make sure there are no leaks.
- Always store excess fuel in special containers in a cool and safe place.
- Be careful of your face and hands when lighting a burner or stove and use a flame arrestor to block the wind.
- Open the flame only as much as needed.
- After finishing cooking, turn off the flame completely and wait for the stove or burner to cool down.
- Before packing, make sure all equipment is cool and clean.
- Put sharp equipment such as knives in sheaths or special covers so that they do not damage other equipment or you during transportation.
- Carry gas canisters in an upright position away from impact or pressure.
- Clean dishes and cooking utensils well after each use to prevent the accumulation of bacteria and bad odors.
- Use environmentally friendly soaps or detergents so as not to harm nature.
- Use safe and sanitary water for cooking and if you doubt the quality of the water, boil it.
- In areas sensitive to fire, do not use devices that require an open flame.
- When working with a stove or burner, always have a container of water or earth available for emergency extinguishing of the flame.
- When finished, make sure the flame is completely extinguished and safely dispose of any remaining ash or fuel.
- Avoid littering or leaving food in nature. Collect all trash and take it back with you.
- Always carry extra lighters or matches to be ready for emergencies.
- Keep a small first aid kit handy in case of burns or cuts.
- Before starting to use new equipment, read the instructions carefully and test it in a safe environment.
How to optimize your cooking equipment for travel?
To have a comfortable and light travel experience, it is very important to optimize cooking equipment. This process includes choosing the right equipment, reducing the weight of the load and organizing the equipment optimally.
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- Use tools and utensils that have multiple uses.
- Use lightweight equipment such as aluminum or titanium containers so that they are durable in addition to light weight.
- Collapsible or layered containers that take up less space, such as silicone cups and bowls, are perfect for light travel.
- Minimize the number of items and take only the necessary equipment.
- Before the trip, chop or pack food and put it in ziplock bags.
- Use dry or semi-prepared foods such as pasta, rice, or soup powder, which weigh less and are quick to prepare.
- Place small equipment such as lighters, knives, and spices in a separate bag or small box for quick access.
- Use cookware bags that are compartmentalized to help you organize your things.
- Use nested containers to take up less space.
- If you are traveling in a group, share common items such as stoves or large pots between people so that you carry less luggage.
- According to the duration of the trip, estimate the type and amount of fuel you need. Small gas capsules are suitable for short and light trips; While for longer journeys multipurpose fuels may be more practical.
- Before the trip, make a list of equipment and food and check it several times so you don’t miss anything.
- Carry a small repair kit with a small wrench, strong glue and tape, so that you can quickly repair them if the torch or equipment breaks down.
- Pour spices, oil, or high-use food ingredients into smaller containers so that they have less weight and volume.
- Choose packages that are resistant to moisture and shock.
- Before your trip, check all cooking equipment to make sure it’s safe.
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If you have experience or information about buying or using outdoor cooking equipment, you can share these valuable tips with Kajaro audience. Your experiences can help other adventurers have a more comfortable and enjoyable trip.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the most essential cooking equipment in nature?
Among the most essential cooking equipment in nature, we can mention items such as cooking and serving dishes, heating devices, cooking equipment, food storage containers, food items, cleaning and hygiene equipment.
Name the best brands of outdoor cooking equipment?
Brands such as MSR, Jet Boil, Coleman, Sea to Summit, Snowhawk and Otwell have been very successful in the field of outdoor cooking equipment such as cookware, travel stoves, multi-purpose equipment and cookware.
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