What's your experience with solar cookers?

Question

I've gotten a book "Cooking with Sunshine" and a lot of curiosity around building or buying a solar cooker for at least use in the late spring to early fall. My main reason for considering a solar cooker is my kitchen really is impractical for summer time cooking and it gets hotter than Hades even just to use the stove. I have a slow cooker but would love to be able to harness the power of the sun. It's free and clean.

It seems pretty straightforward but I was wondering if anyone had any actual experience with them? If so, do you have any recommendations as to whether it's better to buy one vs build one? Any tips? I'm thinking this would also be great for camping, has anyone used it for this purpose? Any good solar cooker non-meat recipes to share ?

Answer 1

their not that great because they take forever to cook stuff i did for a class project and it sucked really bad and they take forever to build.

Answer 2

I built one out of a cardboard box, wadded up paper for insulation and a piece of glass taped into the top of the box.  You have to cook using black glass containers (paint the glass black with nontoxic paint).  It worked, but it was slow.  I think buying one would give you more dependability.  The problem with handmade ones is you can't really regulate the heat and therefore your food can get cold then hot then cold and go bad...

Answer 3

when outdoors during the day and using the solar cooker, don't forget to wear UV 400 protective eyewear and a brim hat. The de/reflections could damage your eyes permanently.And wear loose light clothing, too much exposure to the sun can lead to skin cancer, premature aging, skin wrinkles and sagging.

Answer 4

i dont do it

Answer 5

I would build one from scrap parts - just so you don't waste any money on it.

There are some good books on the subject - so track them down.

Solar hot water is definately worthwhile - maybe you could build one of those too?

As for experience.... I'm in Scotland UK! - more chance of plaiting fog.

Answer 6

i havent have any personal experience but i heard it take foreverrr to cook

Answer 7

I have no experience with solar cookers