Today, homesteads and commercial platforms are adopting solar cooking either as a cooking alternative way to cut cost or as fun.
The cooking technique is sufficient since it works on a set-up which requires only the ovens which are locally available and the sun which is inexhaustible. The solar ovens have reflectors which trap light particles (photons) then convert them to heat which cooks the meal of choice.
In the recent past, the number of solar ovens has been on the rise. Today, people understand the many benefits accrued by this mode of cooking and this is what influences the rising number of solar ovens in the market. As a result, manufacturers have continued to supply the market with cooking stoves. Although the solar ovens come in different styles, their design falls under the four major categories which I’m going to discuss.
Top Picks
1. Box Solar Ovens
These ovens are the most widely used around the world. The ovens are typically box-shaped and come in considerable sizes. Their size favors those seeking to prepare separate meals or cook for a bigger number of people. The box ovens cook slowly thus suitable for anything that can be simmered in a slow cooker, cooked in a microwave, or roasted in an oven.
- Rust-proof, highly polished, mirror-like anodized aluminum reflectors
- Sets up in minutes.
- Save money and be prepared with the world's most well-respected solar cooking appliance. Use at home or for emergency preparedness.
- Includes: Lightweight, portable solar oven that reaches 360-400 degrees
- CHRISTMAS SPECIAL
- Designed to extend your solar cooking range
- Allows cooking year-round - even up north
2. Parabolic Solar Ovens
Often, many platforms refer to these as curved concentrator ovens because of their set up. Over the other categories, the parabolic ovens are designed to create high heat concentration hence cooking meals faster. The ovens’ rounded walls direct all the heat to the base where one places the food. They are most popular in China but are gaining fame in institutions and commercial food joints in the US that cook frequently. Because of the high temperatures, the ovens are the perfect choice to fry, grill or even pop popcorns.
- 100% SOLAR POWERED – Cook without propane, gas, fire, or electrical power. The SolSource Sport solar cooker harnesses solar energy directly by reflecting and intensifying the sun's rays. Simply set it up and point it towards the sun. Advanced self-healing polymers maximize the effect and ensures the durability of the mirrors.
- MAX TEMPERATURE OF 285°F (140°C): This portable solar cooker reaches temperatures comparable to kitchen ovens under ideal weather conditions (strong, direct sunlight, low wind, warm day). It boils 0.5 qts of water in 15-20 minutes while maintaining a compact, portable design for your solar cooking needs.
3. Solar Panel ovens
The panel ovens combine the designs of the box and parabolic cookers regarding their design. These ovens use panels to trap light particles then direct the heat to a separate box which holds the meal. The separate box is made of plastic or glass to assist in retaining the trapped heat. These ovens are suitable for meals that require slow cooking, or roasting. The panel ovens are cheap to manufacture so readily available in most local stores at an affordable price.
- #1 Portable Solar Oven from Alaska to Afghanistan! Cook from sun-up to sundown.
- The most versatile solar oven on the market. Bake cookies or pizza. Dry fruits and herbs. Can accommodate a wide variety of cookware. No assembly required. Easy to use. Sets up and stores in seconds.
- #1 Portable Solar Oven from Alaska to Afghanistan! Cook from sun-up to sundown.
- Includes: 1 solar oven thermometer, 1 trivet, 1 collapsible silicone pot, and a handy stuff bag. No assembly required. Easy to use. Sets up and stores in seconds.
4. Evacuated tube Solar Ovens
Last but not the least are the evacuated tube cookers. The name might not sound familiar because they are new in the market. However, these ovens are slowly winning people’s attention owing to their excellent service delivery and the fact that they can work well even under cloudy skies. They comprise large evacuated glass tubes stuck between shiny reflector panels. This set up allows maximum trapping of heat to temperatures of up to 290ºC hence favorable for cooking meat, vegetables, dessert, and bread among many other meals.
- PORTABLE SOLAR STOVE - Deploys in seconds and collapses into a durable package; folding parabolic reflectors protect the cooking tube like a clamshell. Equipped with carrying handles and completely submersible, the Sport is designed for adventure.
- COOL TO TOUCH - No fire hazard here. The stove’s solar vacuum tube cooking chamber provides a near perfect layer of insulation, keeping the exterior surface cool even while hot inside.
- Sundial indicator to help you know the best angle for maximum heat output and to regulate internal temperature
- Built-in thermometer so you can know how long to cook your food
With the knowledge of the four categories, it’s now easy to pick an oven that matches your taste. When acquiring a solar oven, first you should consider the cost. After all, everyone is looking for a solar oven to cut cost. Also, one should put cooking needs into consideration. It is advisable to choose an oven that suits the meals that you intend to prepare. Lastly, a buyer should consider efficiency regarding the oven’s portability in case he or she plans to use it in different locations such as homes and camping sites.
Over the past few decades, forests have fallen victims of humanity in search of firewood to cook. Therefore, with the solar ovens in play, it is a relief to the environment. Also, cooking via solar energy is comfortable and healthy as we all know how cooking fires are a threat to our lungs and eyes.
Conclusion
Recently, solar cooking is slowly gaining popularity. Thanks to the manufacturers, the solar ovens have been made locally available at affordable prices. It is, therefore, a high time that the cooking method got embraced even at the individual level. With that said and done, the environment will be a significant beneficiary. Besides, people will also benefit concerning health.
