Learning to cook on a woodburner isn’t just about making dinner — it’s about creating an experience. The slow, even heat makes it ideal for hearty stews, roasts, and breads, while the crackle of logs adds atmosphere you won’t get from gas or electric. In the UK, it’s a popular choice for off-grid living, energy independence, and embracing a slower, more mindful way of cooking. While UK stoves often prioritise heating efficiency over cooking features, many European and North American models integrate ovens, hotplates, or even pizza-baking capabilities.

 

Why Cook on a Woodburner?

• Boiling & Frying: Best done when the fire is roaring and the stovetop is at its hottest.
• Simmering: Move pots to a cooler section of the top plate or use a trivet to raise them slightly.
• Baking: In stoves with ovens, preheat thoroughly before adding food. Without an oven, you can improvise using a Dutch oven with hot embers on the lid for all-round heat.
• Slow Cooking: Use retained heat after the main burn to gently cook overnight soups or stews.

 

Tip: In colder climates, overnight slow cooking can also help maintain background warmth.