Before the invention of gas stoves, people in England (and around the world) relied on various other methods for cooking their meals. Here are some of the common cooking methods used in England before the widespread adoption of gas stoves:
Open Fire Cooking: One of the oldest and most traditional methods of cooking was cooking over an open fire. People would build fires using wood, charcoal, or other fuels, and suspend pots and pans over the flames using hooks or iron tripods. This method allowed for direct heat cooking and was commonly used in hearths and fireplaces.
Cooking in Ovens: Ovens, fueled by wood, were used for baking and roasting. Food would be placed inside the oven, and the heat from the burning wood would cook the food. These ovens were typically separate from the fireplace and often built into the kitchen wall.
Cooking on a Range: A range was a large, closed stove that burned wood or coal. It had multiple compartments, including an oven and multiple cooking surfaces. Ranges provided more controlled cooking temperatures and were a significant improvement over open fire cooking.
Brick or Masonry Ovens: In some households and bakeries, brick or masonry ovens were used. These ovens retained heat well and were especially popular for baking bread.
Cooking over Hearth Coals: After the main fire in the hearth had burned down to coals, people would sometimes cook directly on the hot coals. This method was particularly suitable for certain dishes like roasted meats or vegetables.
Potjiekos: This is a traditional South African method, but it became popular in some regions of England as well. Potjiekos involves cooking in a three-legged cast iron pot over an open fire, similar to Dutch oven cooking.
Portable Stoves: Before gas stoves became prevalent, there were portable stoves that burned various fuels like kerosene or alcohol. These stoves allowed for more flexibility in cooking and were commonly used in military camps, expeditions, and some households.
It's important to note that cooking methods varied depending on the region, social class, and historical era. The introduction of gas stoves in the mid to late 19th century brought about a significant transformation in cooking technology and revolutionized how people cooked their meals.