What do you consider to be the best cookware kit?

[Christian P.]

I am thinking plates, silverwares, pots, pans, etc.

The kits I have in my truck usually take a lot of abuse and do not survive very long. The plastic stuff has a tendency to break and disappear.
Aluminium/steel is better but rattles more.

REI sells a titanium serie – has anyone tried this?

http://www.rei.com/product/764178

also:

http://www.rei.com/product/670618

Any other suggestions? I need to get a new one and I am curious to know what people are using.

tks!

[AndrewP]

Plates--Really, I almost always use paper, but the stackable Lexan ones are great. Bowls, same-I use 2 large lexan ones(salad bowl sized), and a SS one I found at a thrift store for $0.50.

Kinves, forks, spoons---plastic.

Pots--A coffee pot type pot with a handle heats water most efficiently. For a regular pot I like tall relatively narrow ones since they pack better. Works great for pasta. Both of mine are thrift store finds. When I know I need to make a really big meal, I'll take a big pot from home. I made chili for 20 last year on the Rubicon at Buck Island in a really big All-clad pot my wife did not realize she was missing.:D

Plus, of course, a cast iron skillet.

Now with that said, I don't have the time in my life to plan around the globe ventures. I'm lucky to get out for a week or 10 days. If I did, I'd give a bit more thought to what I take. Thrift stores are great for this type of gear. It's cheap, you're recycling, and if you mess it up, it's OK to throw it away. Titanium is way too fru-fru, plus it "rings" when you strike it, ie it's noisy.

[shahram]

I'm hard on cookware, hence, emphasis for cookware is on cost. I like the grocery store cheapies, sometimes you can find one on clearance, and the quality isn't bad either. I avoid teflon...I just don't like cooking with it, and it doesn't stand up to pocket knives, fire or scouring. I also avoid plastic or rubber grips, because they don't stand up to abuse or direct heat.

[Brett M]

Right now I pack along 2 cast iron skillets (12" and a 10") for the main cooking. One pot that I believe is a 10" as well, probably something I bought at a grocery store too. ;) Silverware, I just pick up a big box of plastic forks/spoons/knives. They generally last me 4-5 trips, depending on how many others forgot their's. My plates and bowls are all some sort of plastic, pretty thick, but very light. Same with my cups.....and all this packs into a nice ActionPacker in the back of my XJ. :)

[spressomon]

I carry two Circulon non stick pans: The Infinity series 1.5Q and the 3Q models: http://www.potsandpans.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/FullAssortment_10001_43601_10001_-1_0
These pans have a thick base and about the best NS I have found...and they're not brutally expensive if you shop around for sales etc.

I don't cook with nonstick at home...but I get tired of scrubbing the bejesus out of the pans when out camping (I heat milk for cappuccinos; make brown rice; etc. that tends to be a PITA to clean up in regular SS pans) . The NS takes almost no water to clean up. I have sewn up a couple 5mm neoprene covers for the pans to keep them from getting beat when in transit...works great so far!

I also carry a pot for heating water mostly and an 8" and a 10" cast iron fry pan (I will take a 12" on some trips if I plan on needing its capacity)...well seasoned of course...the 8" is prefect for chili verde and eggs for breakfast (thanks Mike S. for that idea you gave me at Pyramid ;-) and a 6Q pan and lid for cooking pasta once in a while. And of course my stove top espresso maker!

I am switching to paper plates as Andy mentioned...washing plates wastes too much precious water out there.

What type of pans you carry really boils down to how big a foodie you are...or not! I like to cook so my choice of pans has worked out real well for me.

Mike S. had this neat Cuisinart Stowaway pot/pan set http://cuisinart.com/catalog/product.php?product_id=498&item_id=609&cat_id=356
They used to make a 10-piece kit but now just the 8-pc...which is still plenty for most...nice compact nesting kit.

[AndrewP]

Speaking of plastic forks/spoons/knives, the ones they have at "Baja Fresh" are outstandingly excellent. I often try and keep a few extras each time I go in. You can't buy plastic silverware this good.

I had a full set of the fancy lexan ones, but Desertdude took them from me and didn't give them back, then claimed to have lost them. I think he works for Baja Fresh.:1888fbbd:

[MuddyMudskipper]

I use the T-Fal Bivuoac 5 piece cook set. the set is aluminum, teflon coated, and lightweight. The pots and pans have a special "something" on the bottom which evenly distributes the heat from camp stoves. The lid snaps on the large pot and frying pan and can be used to strain or pour. The pots and pans pack inside themselves and the set comes with a potholder. I have had this set for a couple of years and it is awesome. I bring a medium sized teapot to boil water for coffee, cocoa, or tea. I bring reusable lexan plates (similar to the ones in your link), plastic cups, and chow kit (http://www.coghlans.com/images/productBig/117.jpg)flatware. I have multi-spice (http://www.coghlans.com/images/productBig/148.jpg)and multi-grill (http://www.coghlans.com/images/productBig/111.jpg) canisters for seasoning my grub. I also have an aluminum teflon coated griddle that I put over the burners of my stove for breakfast chores. If I know I am going to cook meat over coals I bring a camp grill instead of a BBQ box.

I typically don't use disposable plates, flatware, and cups because if I'm going to have to wash pots and pans, plates and cups aren't much more work. Plus by doing so I make less trash therefore have to carry less trash. I also have a good sized bottle of camp soap which is biodegradable and can be used for dishes, hands, body, and hair.

[spressomon]

I use the T-Fal Bivuoac 5 piece cook set. the set is aluminum, teflon coated, and lightweight. The pots and pans have a special "something" on the bottom which evenly distributes the heat from camp stoves. The lid snaps on the large pot and frying pan and can be used to strain or pour. The pots and pans pack inside themselves and the set comes with a potholder. I have had this set for a couple of years and it is awesome. I bring a medium sized teapot to boil water for coffee, cocoa, or tea. I bring reusable lexan plates (similar to the ones in your link), plastic cups, and chow kit (http://www.coghlans.com/images/productBig/117.jpg)flatware. I have multi-spice (http://www.coghlans.com/images/productBig/148.jpg)and multi-grill (http://www.coghlans.com/images/productBig/111.jpg) canisters for seasoning my grub. I also have an aluminum teflon coated griddle that I put over the burners of my stove for breakfast chores. If I know I am going to cook meat over coals I bring a camp grill instead of a BBQ box.

I typically don't use disposable plates, flatware, and cups because if I'm going to have to wash pots and pans, plates and cups aren't much more work. Plus by doing so I make less trash therefore have to carry less trash. I also have a good sized bottle of camp soap which is biodegradable and can be used for dishes, hands, body, and hair.


I have not seen this pot/pan set before: Neat! How do you isolate the pans from each other when transporting so that the bottom of one pan isn't rubbing/scraping/scratching the non-stick portion of the top of another?

[Scott Brady]

I am sold on the Snow Peak Field Cooker (http://www.snowpeak.com/lux/kitchen/fieldcooker/index.html). Even a strainer for pasta...

http://www.snowpeak.com/images/product_img/Field%20cooker/CS-021.jpg

[FourByLand]

Mr. Brady... (I don't know why I am still calling you that but whatever.)

I had issues with our previous cookset and will just leave it at that but have decided to go with the Snow Peak field cook set and was wondering if you had a photo of it compacted, just curious to see.

Have you used it? How well does it "non stick" and how evenly does it cook?

Thanks

[bfoxg8r]

The Ti kits are nice. Super lightweight, however, they are not the best to cook with. It seems they don't heat up fast or evenly.

I've got a MSR non-stick set. Very light, and nests together into a compact package.

[paulj]

If you are hard on gear, avoid titanium. The metal is tough, but the pots are made from the thinnest sheet possible, both because of the cost, and the weight savings. These pans are aimed at backpack packers who want the lightest possible gear. Rough use may not break them, but certainly will dent them.

I am probably too careful with my gear to give advice, but:
- all my kitchen gear is carefully packed in a plastic storage bin (8 gal RM). This maximizes the amount of gear that can fit an given space, but also keeps it from banging around
- my main pots are the aluminum ones that came with the stove, an alcohol Trangia stove set. For the main task of boiling water, non-stick is not necessary.
- for foods that stick, like scrambled eggs, I like to use a small GSI non-stick wok. I pack that carefully in a plastic bag to minimize scratching.
- I also have a GSI hard anodized 10" dutch oven. Hard anodized is better than stainless steel or bare aluminum when it comes to sticking, though not quite as good as well seasoned cast iron or PTFE.

- I like the inexpensive GSI plastic plates and bowls. They are lighter and more flexible than their lexan bowls, but I have yet to break one. Plus the plastic cleans very easily.
- I also have several inexpensive aluminum plates (from REI). I've used one for years as a heat shield under the stove, and got a couple of more because they nestled well with the rest of the gear.
- another durable choice for table ware is (blue) speckled enameled steel. Coleman sells these, though most of what I have is distributed by GSI. Mexico is a major producer. It is also a good choice for pots and pans, even coffee pots.
- restaurant supply stores are a good source for sturdy sauce pans and fry pans, usually thick aluminum. However they can be awkward to pack.

paulj

[ntsqd]

Even though it really takes shavings or a flame beyond that obtainable with a camp stove, my reaction to exposing Ti to flame is "Ah, no thanks!".

I once read that Napoleon had an aluminum spoon because at the time it was a far more exotic metal than silver. I sort of feel the same way about a Ti spoon. But then I can't back-pack either....

My own cookware is a hodge-podge of stuff from stores like Big Lots, $.99 Store, etc. Service is a 4 place cheap set of home use service stored in a rectangular Tuperware along with the can opener, spare lighters, and a couple steak knives. Must admit though that I've been searching the forum & elsewhere for ideas to better pack it all into a smaller yet more usable system.

[MuddyMudskipper]

I have not seen this pot/pan set before: Neat! How do you isolate the pans from each other when transporting so that the bottom of one pan isn't rubbing/scraping/scratching the non-stick portion of the top of another?

I use the thin foam that the cook set came with. It prevents scratches, no noise, and everything packs away snug (the small pot in the center stays in the center).

[FourByLand]

Saw the T-Fal in action and it is surely something to consider.

:drool:

[spressomon]

I use the thin foam that the cook set came with. It prevents scratches, no noise, and everything packs away snug (the small pot in the center stays in the center).


Thanks! A couple more questions: Is the gauge of the aluminum thicker as a home use type cookset would be or is it thinner more akin to a backpackers cookset weight? And do you have just the one, which looks like a multi-purpose lid or do you have a couple lids for the pots/pans?

[MuddyMudskipper]

Thanks! A couple more questions: Is the gauge of the aluminum thicker as a home use type cookset would be or is it thinner more akin to a backpackers cookset weight? And do you have just the one, which looks like a multi-purpose lid or do you have a couple lids for the pots/pans?

The aluminum is a thinner gauge than a regular household cookset and very lightweight. The TFal set is a 1/16" thick and the RR pots and pans I have are 1/8" thick. There is one lid for the the 22 cm frying pan and 22 cm Dutch oven but I'll use one of the other smaller frying pans if I need a lid for the smaller saucepan or vice versa.

These are the specs:

Frypan 22 cm

Frypan 16 cm

Saucepan 14 cm (1L)

Saucepan 20 cm (3L)

Dutch Oven 22 cm (4L)

Strainer Cover 22 cm

[Wyoming Shooter]

Has anyone found a good source for this set? Google doesn't produce much for me. Thanks. ELN

[DesertRose]

I am sold on the Snow Peak Field Cooker (http://www.snowpeak.com/lux/kitchen/fieldcooker/index.html). Even a strainer for pasta...

http://www.snowpeak.com/images/product_img/Field%20cooker/CS-021.jpg

I second that. I love to cook, and at home use a combination of old seasoned cast iron, Le Creuset, and Calphalon . . . but needed something a little more portable and easy to clean for our camping kit.

Used to use Tfal, but I'm really concerned about silverstone and ingesting that stuff . . . we got the Snow Peak set and it's incredible. Heavy enough for good heat, easy to clean, and it nests beautifully.

We have a full set of the Snow Peak titanium plates/utensils/mugs, and everything - including the Snow Peak GigaPower stove - fits into the cookware and it has a nice net bag.

I think Expedition Exchange has them (http://www.expeditionexchange.com)

[westexasrepublic]

I like that T-fal,....but what is Silverstone?

http://www.modernoutpost.com/gear/details/tl_tfalsets.html <this is what I found on TFAL.> and this is what it says on that page> NOTICE: TFAL has discontinued this product for 2007. Please check out the other non-stick camping cookware sets we carry from leaders like Primus & GSI. The HAE sets from GSI would be considered superior to TFAL, while similar in price.

this is the next best thing, kinda pricy, > http://www.modernoutpost.com/gear/details/gs_hae_50107_7pc.php http://www.modernoutpost.com/gear/photos/gs/gs_ha_7pc_50107d.jpg

[Green Ganesha]

The hard-anodized GSI nesting cookset is what I mostly use, plus a large frying pan. I much prefer cooking on the HA aluminum over SS. My trailer came with the same GSI cookset in stainless, but after a couple trips of struggling with cleaning and hot spots, joined the huge scrap heap of retired camping cookware. I also pack the GSI HA wok and pressure cooker.

[FourByLand]

The hard-anodized GSI nesting cookset is what I mostly use, plus a large frying pan. I much prefer cooking on the HA aluminum over SS. My trailer came with the same GSI cookset in stainless, but after a couple trips of struggling with cleaning and hot spots, joined the huge scrap heap of retired camping cookware. I also pack the GSI HA wok and pressure cooker.

Thanks Trevor, pretty much the info I was looking for.

;)

[mag232]

I use the T-Fal Bivuoac 5 piece cook set. the set is aluminum, teflon coated, and lightweight. The pots and pans have a special "something" on the bottom which evenly distributes the heat from camp stoves. The lid snaps on the large pot and frying pan and can be used to strain or pour. The pots and pans pack inside themselves and the set comes with a potholder. I have had this set for a couple of years and it is awesome. I bring a medium sized teapot to boil water for coffee, cocoa, or tea. I bring reusable lexan plates (similar to the ones in your link), plastic cups, and chow kit (http://www.coghlans.com/images/productBig/117.jpg)flatware. I have multi-spice (http://www.coghlans.com/images/productBig/148.jpg)and multi-grill (http://www.coghlans.com/images/productBig/111.jpg) canisters for seasoning my grub. I also have an aluminum teflon coated griddle that I put over the burners of my stove for breakfast chores. If I know I am going to cook meat over coals I bring a camp grill instead of a BBQ box.

I typically don't use disposable plates, flatware, and cups because if I'm going to have to wash pots and pans, plates and cups aren't much more work. Plus by doing so I make less trash therefore have to carry less trash. I also have a good sized bottle of camp soap which is biodegradable and can be used for dishes, hands, body, and hair.

this looks like a good setup!

[greybrick]

Extra thick heavy duty aluminum foil.

.

[nwoods]

I couldn't find the T-Fal set either. Amazon and Target both carry quite a bit of their products, but not that set. Not even on T-Fal's website. I wonder if it's been discontinued?

Couldn't find it on eBay either :-(

[sinuhexavier]

There really is no finer than Snowpeak... (https://www.expeditionexchange.com/snowpeak/)

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2318/2050814067_fe52a67563_o.jpg
Steve Rupp cooking up dinner deep in Canyonlands National Park

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2293/2051598922_409e59290e_o.jpg
Goat Cheese and Arugula with Pine Nuts Salad

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2379/2051600016_4a91bf70f0_o.jpg
Stephanie preps the ingredients to a dutch oven masterpiece

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2184/2051600258_a2ca5b2b84.jpg
Have to have the dutch ovens as well...

[FourByLand]

I couldn't find the T-Fal set either. Amazon and Target both carry quite a bit of their products, but not that set. Not even on T-Fal's website. I wonder if it's been discontinued?

Couldn't find it on eBay either :-(

It can be found across the pond.

:sombrero:

[the dude]

We just picked up the GSI HA set and love it compared to my MSR SS. We have only cooked on it once but I doubt we will ever go back to SS. We have the four nesting pots and the wok. I have never used a pressure cooker...we might have to give that a try.

I would like to find a pasta strainer for the GSI set.


The hard-anodized GSI nesting cookset is what I mostly use, plus a large frying pan. I much prefer cooking on the HA aluminum over SS. My trailer came with the same GSI cookset in stainless, but after a couple trips of struggling with cleaning and hot spots, joined the huge scrap heap of retired camping cookware. I also pack the GSI HA wok and pressure cooker.

[Green Ganesha]

I would like to find a pasta strainer for the GSI set.
Ditto that. A nesting collander would be perfect.

GSI does make a perforated-lid strainer, but it's some kind of plastic. You have to buy pots from one of their other (non-HA Extreme) lines to get it.

http://www.backcountry.com/images/items/detail_large/GSI/GSI0013/ONCO_D2.jpg

I'm trying to figure out if any of the lid-strainer sizes match any of the HA Extreme pot sizes....

[the dude]

I sent GSI a note this morning asking about a nesting colander. I also asked if any of the other lids would fit the HA set. And if they are available individually. We'll see what they have to say when they get back to me.

It might be worth it for you to shoot them an e-mail as well. The more inquires they get about a new product, the more likely they are to offer it. There contact info is on their sight at:

http://www.gsioutdoors.com/


Ditto that. A nesting collander would be perfect.

I'm trying to figure out if any of the lid-strainer sizes match any of the HA Extreme pot sizes....

[targa88]

It can be found across the pond.

:sombrero:
Where?

[Green Ganesha]

It might be worth it for you to shoot them an e-mail as well. The more inquires they get about a new product, the more likely they are to offer it.

Will do.

[Topher Walters]

I have and really like the Sno-Peak set. They contain just about everything I need and they are large enough for full sized meals. They pack down small enough for camping gear. For those of you that have the Sno-Peak sets I have yet to figure out how to keep food from sticking in the frying pan. I have tried all of the usual ideas but just have not been successful. Any hints thanks.

[Andrew Walcker]

,,,For those of you that have the Sno-Peak sets I have yet to figure out how to keep food from sticking in the frying pan. I have tried all of the usual ideas but just have not been successful. Any hints thanks.

I have the same problem with mine. I ended up steel wooling the interior finish of the pan because it was flaking off anyway. I have seasoned my pan but it still sticks.

[Seth Kendall]

I don't have a ton of advice on pots and pans since most of my stuff doubles as backpacking gear. But, I use the MSR Duraliite series.

Water, many times, is to precious a commodity to wash lexan plates. However, anyone who is interested in treading as light as possible out there should consider these as alternatives to paper plates, bowls and utensils. They are compostable (read quickly and completely compostoble), and I have found them to be cheaper than paper and plastic products. This is just one of many companies and websites that sell these types of products.

Plates, Bowls, Cups, Etc. (http://www.worldcentric.org/store/tableware.htm)

Utensils, Bags, Cups (http://www.worldcentric.org/store/bioplastics.htm)

Toilet Paper, Paper Towels, Napkins (http://www.worldcentric.org/store/paper.htm)

[paulj]

I know that bare aluminum and stainless steel do not take the kind of seasoning that you get on cast iron. Carbon steel as used in woks, Mexican comales (griddles) and French crepe pans also takes seasoning. I suspect titanium falls in the no seasoning category.

As for cleaning, Bar Keepers Friend, a cleaner based on oxalic acid, does a good job on stainless steel.

paulj

[bigun]

As for cleaning, Bar Keepers Friend, a cleaner based on oxalic acid, does a good job on stainless steel.

paulj
Thanks for the tip I tried it last night cleaned my pots brighter than when they were new!!

[BigAl]

I found this a good accessory for the kitchen box. It's stainless and can be put directly on the stove to heat. I've seen them everwhere for ~$5
https://www.campmor.com/images/acc/larger/80780_l.jpg

[nwoods]

I found this a good accessory for the kitchen box. It's stainless and can be put directly on the stove to heat. I've seen them everwhere for ~$5


Ah yes, the ubiqutious Sierra cup, I have several, and they see a lot of use.

[Corey]

You will laugh at what I use, but I have been using it for camping since I had my two tent trailers long ago.
http://www.revereware.com/index.asp?pageId=106
The Copper Clad ones.

My parents used Reverware, and I bought a set for myself about 20 years ago.

But...the set I am using for camping was my grandparents.
The set is from the 50s maybe, could be older, but looks just like the modern set I bought 20 years ago.

The handles, steel, and copper bottoms look the same still.
I have gotten a lot of use out of their old Reverware set.

I do like the GSI and the Snow Peak sets, so I may look into them later.

For a fry pan though, I am using a heavy duty non stock skillet I got at Safeway.
Frying eggs or making omeletes in a stainless pan they tend to stick, so I like the non stick pans for eggs.

[kellymoe]

I really like the T-Fal set, I must track that down somewhere. Looks like it would suit my needs perfectly. That and I just cant bring myself to become a Snow Creek cult member:rolleyes:

[Gear]

kellymoe
I really like the T-Fal set, I must track that down somewhere. Looks like it would suit my needs perfectly.


Here you go! :wavey:

http://cgi.ebay.com/T-FAL-TEFAL-CAMPING-COOKWARE-SET-OF-8-NIB_W0QQitemZ300217237875QQihZ020QQcategoryZ20631Q QssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem


Side note - I lost my set several years ago when I lent it out to my sea kayaking buddies. Seems they forgot to clean it one night and the coyotes came in and took the hole pot set in the middle of the night. They scoured the shores of Baja for several hours and ended up using one small pot for the rest of the trip. To this day I would love to get another set. I just don't know what I would do with the two other sets I have now!!

[kellymoe]

kellymoe


Here you go! :wavey:

http://cgi.ebay.com/T-FAL-TEFAL-CAMPING-COOKWARE-SET-OF-8-NIB_W0QQitemZ300217237875QQihZ020QQcategoryZ20631Q QssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem


Side note - I lost my set several years ago when I lent it out to my sea kayaking buddies. Seems they forgot to clean it one night and the coyotes came in and took the hole pot set in the middle of the night. They scoured the shores of Baja for several hours and ended up using one small pot for the rest of the trip. To this day I would love to get another set. I just don't know what I would do with the two other sets I have now!!

Thanks,

I think I'll do that. Richard aka mudymudskipper recomended ebay also. Thanks.

Kevin

[Mike S]

Several years ago I was on the hunt for a good cook kit and could not findone that you could actually cook with (IMO). So I went to Costco and bought a full set of aluminum non-stick cookware. I sorted through them and picked out what I wanted to take on my trips - the rest went into the kitchen. The non-stick is excellent for camping, since it is easy to clean with very little water.

It is my goal to be able to prepare meals as well and as conveniently when camping as I do in my kitchen at home. I am close to this goal.

Than a year or so ago my wife bought me the Cuisinart set that Spressonman mention in his post. It works pretty well, but would be much better if it was non-stick. It is compact and heats evenly on my Riverrunner stove.

For plates I have some HD plastic ware that I found at West Marine - with rubber inserts on the bottoms so that they will not slid around - pretty handy.

M

[bigredpigdriver]

I know its heavy but my 12" DO cook and eat right out of it...I have 10" now im starting to season and use since I dont have kids with me anymore (collage:victory: ) and have been using them for years and loving them

[rusty_tlc]

I'm buying stuff at the local restaurant supply place. Very heavy duty and not that expensive.

Cooking in thin pots and pans sucks. None of the mountaineering gear I've ever tried was good for anything other than boiling water. Which is great if you plan to live on freeze dried meals.

My days of back packing for 1 or 2 weeks at a time are long gone. I can afford a few extra pounds in the form of pots and pans that will cook food without scorching it.



If I still carried everything on my back I'd be on a different forum. :)

[spressomon]

I'm buying stuff at the local restaurant supply place. Very heavy duty and not that expensive.

Cooking in thin pots and pans sucks. None of the mountaineering gear I've ever tried was good for anything other than boiling water. Which is great if you plan to live on freeze dried meals.

My days of back packing for 1 or 2 weeks at a time are long gone. I can afford a few extra pounds in the form of pots and pans that will cook food without scorching it.



If I still carried everything on my back I'd be on a different forum. :)


Geez Dan...I was hoping we'd get out backpacking together sometime.

[BlueHZT60]

I guess I'm a throw back. I'm still using the nestling alum. pots my parents used 40+ years ago backpacking. The (then) fancy teflon frypan is still used but it sticks now adays. They all fit together in the wood kitchen box, built in 1970. Silverware is WWII surplus german steel that holds an edge. The forks are actually worn round these days.

I have modernized to a #2 coffee cone, lexan plates and plastic cutting boards.

I still have but don't use the sierra cups, folding Alum plates, screw top film cans -spices and a few other antique goodies.

BTW - I'm done using the coleman lantern (1974) in it's own custom box that doubles as a lantern holder. I'd love to see it go to a good, well loved home.

Bob

[nugget]

We might be a bit primitive being from the Siuthern Hemipshere and all but this is our preferred cooking

http://i290.photobucket.com/albums/ll242/hma03/100_0329a.jpg

and

http://i290.photobucket.com/albums/ll242/hma03/100_0329a.jpg

http://i290.photobucket.com/albums/ll242/hma03/100_0330a.jpg

The camp oven is actually aluminium so it heats quickly and is very light to pack.

If fires are not allowed or it is raining....

http://i290.photobucket.com/albums/ll242/hma03/di7.jpg

[nugget]

Sorry..posted the same pic tice by mistake.. the first one should have been.....

http://i290.photobucket.com/albums/ll242/hma03/100_0326a.jpg

[SWbySWesty]

I am sold on the Snow Peak Field Cooker (http://www.snowpeak.com/lux/kitchen/fieldcooker/index.html). Even a strainer for pasta...

http://www.snowpeak.com/images/product_img/Field%20cooker/CS-021.jpg

Stainless Steel, Iron...so the pots are stainless and the pan is iron?

[DesertRose]

Stainless Steel, Iron...so the pots are stainless and the pan is iron?

Yes - they are fantastic. The iron frypan has a screw-in wooden handle that also fits the smaller of the stainless pots. The iron pan you have to scrub really really well when you get it to remove the coating from the factory to keep it from rusting. Then you season it just like cast iron and voila - you have a really great saute pan. (Don't skip this step - and there are no instructions, so if you've never seasoned an iron pan just ask.) It's small but still great for a small kit. You can only cook one big pancake at a time, always a problem my Jonathan, my husband, who could just eat pancakes all day long!

[SunTzuNephew]

For plates, the unbreakable Corelle stuff. Available at Wal Mart, Amazon, and such http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_ss_4_3?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=corelle&sprefix=cor

Or, Melmac from thrift stores. If it's stained, cleaning with boiling water and dishwasher detergent (Cascade) gets the stains out.

Both are near indestructable, and pretty inexpensive.

For cups, a collection of insulated driving mugs serves us well. Glasses are plastic, and we prefer the ones with textured outsides.

Flatwear is old stainless steel, unless we want to impress the locals: Then we have some surplus Navy sterling silver :wings:

For cookware, since we use hard-anodized aluminum pots, we mostly use plastic, with plastic cutting boards (from Ikea). Knives are from Ikea, then straight to the professional restaurant knife sharpener. Once they have a good edge on them, they tend to hold it pretty well, and they're a bargain for a full-tang forged knife.

Condiments are in the smallest commercial packages we can get, spices are in 35mm film cans, labeled (the cans are available for free from WalMart in the photo department -- they just toss them out). Staples like sugar, flour, etc are in plastic rubbermaid or Glad containers.

[overlander]

Yes - they are fantastic. The iron frypan has a screw-in wooden handle that also fits the smaller of the stainless pots. The iron pan you have to scrub really really well when you get it to remove the coating from the factory to keep it from rusting. Then you season it just like cast iron and voila - you have a really great saute pan. (Don't skip this step - and there are no instructions, so if you've never seasoned an iron pan just ask.) It's small but still great for a small kit. You can only cook one big pancake at a time, always a problem my Jonathan, my husband, who could just eat pancakes all day long!

I plan on getting this kit, so what's your recommendation on with what and how long to scrub the iron pan? And what's the best way to season it?

[DesertRose]

I plan on getting this kit, so what's your recommendation on with what and how long to scrub the iron pan? And what's the best way to season it?

It was a real pain - I ended up using a fine-grit sandpaper sponge (you can get them at any hardware store) and very lightly got it off - you'll see it's really thick. No kitchen sponge or solvent will do it that I know of, and the sandpaper is non-toxic and worked.

Wash it out, and to dry it heat it on a burner (not too much, just til it's dry). Then dribble on some good light oil like canola or very light olive, and wipe it all over with a paper towel.

Then, for getting a good seasoning going, heat it up in an oven on low til it's hot (need I say take the wooden handle off and do NOT over heat) then let cool. Do it again, applying just a little more oil but keep the oil light so you don't get gloopy spots.

Until the seasoning is nice and set (after a few times of use) just be gentle with utensils, don't scrape the heck out of it.

And each time you use don't soak it - to wash, heat it up a little, splash in some cold water to release the gunk, scrub it out, rinse, and heat-and-oil on the stovetop and let cool.

I use almost exclusively iron at home (cast) and this seasoning and cleaning works great.

[Tucson T4R]

While purchasing a new wok from the wokshop in SF I came across this list 3 different ways to season iron/steel. These are written for a carbon steel wok but should also work well on iron.

I plan to try to the salt method (German style) this time and follow that with a little baked on oil finish.

http://www.wokshop.com/store/tips.php

[overlander]

great info! Thanks :ylsmoke:

[Maryland 110]

great info! Thanks :ylsmoke:

Mark, I'm following all the things you are going to do to the 110 and kit you are going to buy upon your return. I want to camp with you ! Maybe the 2010 Natl Rally in Moab ?

[benedmonson]

I am sold on the Snow Peak Field Cooker (http://www.snowpeak.com/lux/kitchen/fieldcooker/index.html). Even a strainer for pasta...

http://www.snowpeak.com/images/product_img/Field%20cooker/CS-021.jpg

I have this exact kit and love it!!! I thought it was a deal for $150.00. I'm going to start the burn in/seasoning of my skillet in a few minutes because it is a white out outside!!! Thanks for the information on how to properly season this skillet!!!

[spressomon]

While purchasing a new wok from the wokshop in SF I came across this list 3 different ways to season iron/steel. These are written for a carbon steel wok but should also work well on iron.

I plan to try to the salt method (German style) this time and follow that with a little baked on oil finish.

http://www.wokshop.com/store/tips.php


Brad,
I've been using the salt method for almost 3-decades. Damn that's hard to say :rolleyes:. A buddy pro cook of mine taught me the trick and it IMO is the best way to create a virtually non-stick surface on cast iron or steel such as a wok/crepe pan/etc. In fact I just got a 12" steel wok from the same place in SF for the KK...the 14" was just too big!

1/4" or a little better of cheap veggie oil in the bottom; add enough salt to completely cover the bottom of the pan but just under the oil. Heat until smoking then off the heat. Pour out the oil and wipe the salt out with newspaper or whatever. Repeat as necessary after use to keep that non-stick thing happen'n.

[overlander]

Mark, I'm following all the things you are going to do to the 110 and kit you are going to buy upon your return. I want to camp with you ! Maybe the 2010 Natl Rally in Moab ?

Hey thanks! When it the natl rally? Moab is one place my family is looking forward to seeing and I have talked it up so much.

My goal is safari camp style camping, and the kitchen is the heart of it all. I'm going with the Snow Peak set. My father-in-law is very handy with cabinet and woodwork, and I'm going to enlist him to make a removeable custom kitchenbox to fit the 110s' wheelwell, that can be removed and hung on the side of the vehicle via the external rollcage.

Can someone tell me what the dimensions need to be for storage of a stowed snow peak cook set?

[fzsk4p]

Bringing this thread back up.

The Snow Peak cookware set. :chef: Good reliable place to purchase ??

Google doesn't offer many hits so I was hoping someone could make a recommendation.

[benedmonson]

I got it from the US importer in Oregon, http://www.snowpeak.com/lux/kitchen/fieldcooker/index.html Hope this helps!

[fzsk4p]

I got it from the US importer in Oregon, http://www.snowpeak.com/lux/kitchen/fieldcooker/index.html Hope this helps!

Saw that one, thanks !! Did not realize they were the importer.

[Beowulf]

These guys sell just about everything from snowpeak.

http://www.edwardjamesstores.com/shop/index.php?target=products&product_id=435

[mesha]

My vote goes for the MSR flex 4 system. Everything you need in one compact package. even insulated mugs.

[refried]

I'm a big fan of GSIs Hard Anodized stuff, I've had it for several years and it still looks new. The Wok is great and I've noticed my gf has moved several unused pieces from the extra kitchen box to the kitchen at home.

[paulj]

A 10" GSI HA dutch oven gets regular use at home on the stove top and oven, along with occasional use while camping with coals.

[The Adam Blaster]

I'm curious about some of the newer high end pot/pan setups.
I know most seem to be designed to be used over some for of camp stove, but how do they do over an open fire?
I know in the past some of my older cheaper stuff got blackened pretty badly, and I couldn't get it all off.

[Corey]

I am going to have to say Lodge cast iron.
I have used my old stainless steel Paul Revere cookware for years camping as seen in post 40 in this thread.

I recently bought a Lodge 10" Dutch oven and 10" skillet for home, and then bought an 8" Lodge Dutch oven and skillet for camping.

Have used all four at home and no more food sticking to pans, and omelets and fried eggs slide right out of the skillet onto the plate.

I also have the Lodge 20"x10" grill/griddle to add to my camp kitchen set.

I can not believe I did not get into cast iron earlier.
https://secure.lodgemfg.com/storefront/product1_new.asp?menu=logic&idProduct=3923
https://secure.lodgemfg.com/storefront/product1_new.asp?menu=logic&idProduct=3946
https://secure.lodgemfg.com/storefront/product1_new.asp?menu=logic&idProduct=3943

I will probably only carry one of the Revere pans now for heating up water for the French Press.

[paulj]

Cast iron and enameled steel (the inexpensive speckled stuff) are probably the best choices for a wood fire. You definitely don't want anything plastic on the handles.

[The Adam Blaster]

You definitely don't want anything plastic on the handles.

I would agree with this!
I have a grill that has it's fold-out legs that I place across one side of the fire and use that to support a pot or pan. I have used normal "kitchen" cookware before with wood or plastic handles, I just keep the handles pointed away from the center of the fire. Of course, my past record of keeping the handles from getting burnt or melted is not perfect... lol
I have been pretty good though!
I do hate trying to clean the blackened bottoms of the pans though, have not been at all successful in that regard.
I have little experience cooking with/on cast iron. This thread has definitely gotten me interested in trying though!

[cnynrat]

We have a set of the Cuisinart nesting cookware shown here (http://www.chefsresource.com/cuisinart-stowaway-cookware.html) in our trailer. It's really well made cookware, everything nests inside the largest pot, and comes in a nice travel sack. Very happy with this choice. I think this product may be discontinued, but you can still find places on line with stock on hand. Seems to be quite popular with the boating crowd.

We supplement the nesting cookware set with a nice non-stick frying pan for things like eggs where that seems to work well. You can often pick up good quality pans for reasonable prices at restaurant supply stores. If the menu dictates we sometimes bring a large griddle that covers both sides of a typical 2-burner stove. Works well for things like pancakes or french toast for a group.

We've also become a fan of silicone collapsible bowls and colanders such as this one (from Amazon (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000LPHV1K/click07f-20)). They work well and store very compactly.

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41t6Rxge-tL._SL500_AA300_.jpg

Add in a dutch oven or two and we're ready to go!

We mostly use paper plates to save on clean up. As long as you are permitted to have a campfire the trash isn't an issue. We're planning a week in the Maze this fall where there are no fires allowed, and no water. So we're trying to assess the tradeoff between hauling the trash from eating on paper, or carrying the water for cleanup for a week.

As a side note we've had an older set of the T-FAL cookware for our slide in camper for ten years or so. It cooks pretty well, and although it doesn't see daily use it's holding up well.

[The Adam Blaster]

I've heard the collapsible stuff can be a bit hard to clean in the pleats.
Have you had any issues?



We've also become a fan of silicone collapsible bowls and colanders such as this one (from Amazon (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000LPHV1K/click07f-20)). They work well and store very compactly.

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41t6Rxge-tL._SL500_AA300_.jpg

[Uncle Roger]

I have to say, I'm impressed. I just bring a cheap saucepan and teflon frying pan, along with a big stock pot from target (we're fond of making mashed potatoes or pot-bottom eggs for a group of 6 or so families). For plates and bowls and such, it's plasticware from target or ikea. A lot of stuff came from thrift shops as well. We have a whole mess of silverware -- a couple of $5 sets from Ikea. The one splurge is a set of insulated coffee mugs from REI. Oh, and a great potato masher: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00004OCL9/

If anything gets lost or broken, it's all cheap to replace.

[cnynrat]

I've heard the collapsible stuff can be a bit hard to clean in the pleats.
Have you had any issues?

No, not at all. The bowls don't have as many pleats - they are kind of a mix of plastic sections connected together by the flexible silicone sections, and when opened up there aren't any pleats. The colander is all flexible silicone, and has some pleats in it but I don't find that I'm usually getting a colander very dirty.

[BIGdaddy]

This is what we have:

http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://images.usoutdoorstore.com/usoutdoorstore/products/full/gsi_50206_08.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.usoutdoorstore.com/outlet/gsi-extreme-cookset-md.html&usg=__8BgFWisf_APrW7wMbOvDkpSFsJY=&h=480&w=480&sz=15&hl=en&start=4&um=1&itbs=1&tbnid=PANJmQ-Z1T-uPM:&tbnh=129&tbnw=129&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dgsi%2Bcookset%26um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26sa %3DN%26tbs%3Disch:1
http://images.usoutdoorstore.com/usoutdoorstore/products/full/gsi_50206_08.jpg



My sister bought me the set about 7-8 years ago.


We've used the crap out of it.

Comes with two good sized sauce pans, and lids that become skillets, and a cool grippy handle thing, that fits inside.

The largest sauce-pan is easily big enough to boil pasta or cook like 6-8 hot dogs at once.

The frypans are VERY good at cooking eggs

[The Adam Blaster]

The largest sauce-pan is easily big enough to boil pasta or cook like 6-8 hot dogs at once.



HERETIC!!!!!!
You BOIL hot dogs when you're camping???
Shame, Bigdaddy, shame... :violent-smiley-031:


:D



Thanks for the tip on the collapseable bowls cnynrat, I've been interested in that stuff since first seeing it a couple of years ago. Tupperware actually has some of these products, and that company has one of the best replacement warranties I've ever heard of.
I hate trying to pack my hodge-podge of bowls when I go camping. They do not pack in any sort of efficient manner, drives me a bit nuts when I'm prepping for a trip.

[BIGdaddy]

HERETIC!!!!!!
You BOIL hot dogs when you're camping???
Shame, Bigdaddy, shame... :violent-smiley-031:


:D



Thanks for the tip on the collapseable bowls cnynrat, I've been interested in that stuff since first seeing it a couple of years ago. Tupperware actually has some of these products, and that company has one of the best replacement warranties I've ever heard of.
I hate trying to pack my hodge-podge of bowls when I go camping. They do not pack in any sort of efficient manner, drives me a bit nuts when I'm prepping for a trip.

[shrug]Thats how my girls like it. On the other side of my classic coleman 2 burner, I carbonize doggies for my wife and I, on a "custom" grill surface. :)

works well.

[sticks tongue out at adam]:elkgrin:

[The Adam Blaster]

LOL
Alright, you pulled out the kryptonite "I'm doing it for the kids".
Nothing trumps that, not even an open campfire! lol

[rusty_tlc]

....
I do hate trying to clean the blackened bottoms of the pans though, have not been at all successful in that regard.
I have little experience cooking with/on cast iron. This thread has definitely gotten me interested in trying though!


I Haaaate cooking on anything but cast iron on an open fire.
Back in the day when I used other stuff I would take a bar of soap and rub it over the outside of my pots an pans before I used them on an open fire. it's amazing how easy they clean up. Also sand, dry or wet, will scour almost anything off of any surface. <disclaimer!!!!!> do not try this at home!!!! Horse tails contain a large amount of silicate and make a scouring pad that rivals anything 3M ever made.</disclaimer> I'm sure using horse tails to scrub pots would be frowned on in any but the most remote areas nowadays.

[shogun]

We've used the crap out of it.

Comes with two good sized sauce pans, and lids that become skillets, and a cool grippy handle thing, that fits inside.

The largest sauce-pan is easily big enough to boil pasta or cook like 6-8 hot dogs at once.

The frypans are VERY good at cooking eggs

Looks like the GSI Extreme MD, hard anodized set. Note that GSI no longer makes this set, but admitted it was one of thier "high-end" sets. Located it here for $75. Buy now or forever, well, you know the deal.

http://www.usoutdoorstore.com/outlet/gsi-extreme-cookset-md.html

[mhiscox]

Looks like the GSI Extreme MD, hard anodized set. Note that GSI no longer makes this set, but admitted it was one of thier "high-end" sets. Located it here for $75. Buy now or forever, well, you know the deal.

http://www.usoutdoorstore.com/outlet/gsi-extreme-cookset-md.html
Thanks for doing my work for me. Just ordered up a set.

[nwoods]

Thanks for doing my work for me. Just ordered up a set.

Must have got the last one, it's no longer available on that website

[BIGdaddy]

LOL
Alright, you pulled out the kryptonite "I'm doing it for the kids".
Nothing trumps that, not even an open campfire! lol


My kung fu is strong.

:D

[Lynn]

For plates, the unbreakable Corelle stuff. Available at Wal Mart, Amazon, and such http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_ss_4_3?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=corelle&sprefix=cor

Or, Melmac from thrift stores. If it's stained, cleaning with boiling water and dishwasher detergent (Cascade) gets the stains out.


Corelle is readily available from thrift stores, too. Especially if you don't mind building a mis-matched service, like mine. :)



Condiments are in the smallest commercial packages we can get, spices are in 35mm film cans,

You know, I've seen replacement lids that turn film cans into salt and pepper shakers, but I don't know that I could use old film cans. They can probably be thoroughly washed, but I just can't imagine putting food in something with that bad of a chemical stink...


I Haaaate cooking on anything but cast iron on an open fire.
Back in the day when I used other stuff I would take a bar of soap and rub it over the outside of my pots an pans before I used them on an open fire. it's amazing how easy they clean up...

The old Boy Scout trick is to coat 'em with liquid dish soap. I haven't tried bar soap, but I'll bet liquid soap is easier to apply. Works great.