As i investigate different ways to cook foods without using a lot of watts, I found this website on using a Thermos to cook meals.

It looks easy and fun. I have a few very nice steel vintage thermoses (thermii?) and this seems like a simple cooking method for a lazy cook like me. I've done a version of this while backpacking, using a Nalgene and hot water to make ramen, barley meals, couscous, and rehydrate things like beans.

It's like a vertical crockpot, in essence.

I could use my 4 cup coffeepot to make the hot water and only use 650 watts, then add the water to the thermos. In contrast, a microwave, electric kettle or electric stovetop use over 1000 watts.

It might not seem like a huge difference, but if i wanted to run my home off of a few solar panels, i could easily get away with a 650 watt expenditure to heat water, and then let the thermos do the rest of the cooking for absolutely free.

That is cool. I am trying to show my preteen how to cook, mostly in unconventional ways that will benefit her. This looks like a good possibility for her to experiment with - and it is something I wouldn't have to supervise as mush as working over a hot stove burner. Great idea!

AKlisa, that's a great idea for your preteen! Thermos cooking seems pretty foolproof from the ideas i've been reading. What are you thinking about cooking first?

I'm looking forward to trying a pasta meal, making some wheat berry breakfasts, and making some quinoa dinners. It's been over ten years since i've had quinoa. I remember liking it. This would be a great opportunity to add whole grains into anyone's eating rotation.

I haven't had a chance to try this yet. With my evening classes (and provided dinners), I haven't been around enough in the afternoons to make myself a dinner, or put aside hot grains for breakfast. There are only three more class sessions, so my time will open up soon.

Cooking is just not something I give much thought to. I'd like to do better.