The summer kitchen
I live in a charming little rented house that is insulated as well as a shoebox.
Therefore, in the winter, baking is a pleasant way to warm up the house.
In the summer, it's a lot like doing housework in the gates of Hell.
I might have found the solution.
In the last couple weeks, I have been experimenting with using my propane grill as a stove top. My grill has a side burner, which I really appreciate. And I've also been using the grill itself.
I haven't bought any special cookware. I just use the crummy, old stuff I have and set it right on the grill. I've cooked eggs, sauted tofu and boiled pasta outside. I love it!
It's not really a cost-effective way to cook. But it's fun to be outside in the breeze. I end up with a nice meal, and the kitchen stays cool enough to eat in.
Now I've started experimenting with using the grill as an oven. I've tried baking pizza, shortcake and cookies.
The pizza, of course, was easy. But both the shortcake and the cookies ended up burnt on the bottom.
As I write this, it occurs to me that maybe the problem is the pan. You put the pizza on the bare grill. (Actually, I used a sheet of aluminum foil.) But the cookies and shortcake were in cookie sheets and a glass pie pan.
Maybe those get too hot being so close to the heat. (I keep the burners on low.)
I don't want to waste propane on failed experimentation. But I might just have to try baking cookies on tin foil this afternoon.
I got an enormous kick out of making the neighborhood smell like oatmeal cookies last night.
Any suggestions as to how I can make this work?
Read Ann Marie’s updates from the newsroom on Twitter and Facebook.
Jul 5, 2011 at 4:31 p.m.
Suggest removal
Good idea, Bassman. I should definitely have a collection of those.
AM
Jul 3, 2011 at 4:34 a.m.
Suggest removal
What you need to get An Marie are some well seasoned cast iron pans. Dutch ovens are so useful as well as the 6,8,10 inch skillets. Check out the resale or consignment store downtown they have some. Then look up methods online you will be amazed what you can cook with these ! I have all of my Grammy's ,they are probably 70 years old and work perfect.
Jul 1, 2011 at 4:12 p.m.
Suggest removal
IF you have an upper rack on the grill try that so it is off the bottom rack that has more direct heat. IF you dont have a upper one but a grill that has one. I have seen them at rummage sales.
Before you post a comment, consider this:
Note: GazetteXtra.com does not condone or review every comment. Read more in our User Policy AgreementPost Comment
Commenting requires registration.