If electricity and gas stoves are not available, there are still several effective cooking devices/methods you can use. Here are a few options:
Wood or Charcoal Fire: Using a wood or charcoal fire is a traditional and reliable way to cook without electricity. You can create a simple open fire or construct a makeshift stove using rocks or bricks. Cooking over an open flame requires some skill to control the heat, but it allows for grilling, boiling, and even baking if you use a covered pot or oven.
Rocket Stove: A rocket stove is a highly efficient and portable cooking device that burns small pieces of wood or biomass. It's designed to minimize fuel consumption and maximize heat transfer to the cooking vessel. Rocket stoves are particularly useful in areas where resources are scarce.
Solar Cooker: If you have access to sunlight, a solar cooker is an eco-friendly option. It uses reflective panels or a parabolic shape to concentrate sunlight onto a cooking pot. While it may take longer to cook compared to other methods, solar cookers are great for slow cooking and simmering.
Dutch Oven: A cast-iron Dutch oven can be used over an open fire or buried in the coals to cook stews, soups, roasts, and even bake bread. Its thick walls retain heat well, making it versatile for various cooking styles.
Haybox Cooker: A haybox, also known as a wonderbox, is an insulated container that allows for low-heat, slow cooking. You bring the food to a boil using any heat source (e.g., a fire), and then place the hot pot inside the haybox. The insulating material retains the heat, cooking the food gradually without further fuel consumption.
Earthen Oven: If you have access to clay or mud, you can build an earthen oven. This type of oven is excellent for baking bread, pizzas, and other dishes. It works by heating the oven with a fire and then baking directly on the oven's hot surface.
Bamboo Steamer: If you need to steam food, bamboo steamers are an excellent option. They use the steam generated from boiling water in a pot below the stacked bamboo layers to cook the food.
Remember that cooking without electricity or gas stoves may require some adjustments and practice. Always prioritize safety and be aware of fire hazards when dealing with open flames. Each method has its advantages and limitations, so the choice of cooking device/method will depend on the available resources, cooking needs, and personal preferences.