We have had a lot of success with our coffee can stoves. These are nothing more than a large coffee can with holes drill/punched on the sides at the base for ventilation. Place enough charcoal briquet's in to cover the bottom and you've got your stove. I made one modification of adding 3 or 4 grates using metal hangers, place them 1/2 inch above the charcoal, I found this will prevent the hot coals from burning through the foil.<div><br></div><div>Foil you say, what foil?<img border="0" align="absmiddle" src="https://vanlivingforum.com/images/boards/smilies/confused.gif"> Once the coals have started to burn, double wrap anything you want to cook in foil and place in the can, then walk away. You can cook anything that will fit in the can, I've done two boned chicken breasts in one and two baked potatoes in the other. In an hour the potatoes are done and depending on the size of chicken 1 1/2-2 hours. I've done salmon, small roasts, pork chops, etc.</div><div><br></div><div>It may take some practice to determine cooking time for you and, with larger items you may want to turn them over half way through cooking.</div><div><br></div><div>If you've got the storage space for a coffee can and a small bag of charcoal, give it a try.</div>
Coffee can stove
- Thread starter Tincup
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What a great idea Tincup! Have you ever tried to use twigs and sticks as a campfire? I guess the problem would be burning out the bottom of the can. Has that been a problem with the charcoal? thanks again, Bob<br>
<P>those are great stoves & there's tons of info on the net if you look up "hobo stove" and/or "rocket stove" as well as coffee can stove - I have used those while backpacking, though they can make a mess out of your cookware (my experience was they smoked the pots while gas stoves didn't) and really need a close watchful eye </P>
We've been using them for a couple of years and no sign of the bottom burning/rusting out. If you try this, burn off the paint by chucking the can in a campfire or start a charcoal fire in it with no food. It kinda smells the first time it's used.
