Review of Stoke Voltaics’ Portable Electric Cookware

There are instances when having a portable electric cookset is essential. Such occasions might include experiencing a significant power outage or attending a tailgate party or picnic. For instance, during a recent test of two cooking systems from Stoke Voltaics, one might consider using this type of cookset while venturing with a van over the past few months.

Typically, portable cooksets are fueled by liquid substances such as propane, which is affordable and readily available in various container sizes. However, there are scenarios where avoidance of open flames, pollutants, and the associated noise and odor is preferred. Stoke Voltaics offers equipment powered by electricity, which conveniently can draw power from a solar generator and be recharged by sunlight.

The mentioned test involved the new $219.99 Nomad Cooking System and the existing $99.99 Joulle Kettle Pot from Stoke Voltaics. Although their cost is on the higher side, the portability and convenience they offer often justify the expense.

Starting with the Joulle, it functions similarly to an electric JetBoil, a well-known “flash cooking” camping stove that has been in existence for two decades. The design features, including its size, graphics, insulated sleeve, handle, and lid with an integrated filter, bear a resemblance to the JetBoil, extending right down to its ability to serve as a French press for coffee. Stoke Voltaics promotes the Joulle as the “Kettle Pot,” likely to avoid any confusion with JetBoil’s own Joule variant. Notably, the Joulle offers a unique popcorn setting.

The Joulle has three settings, each varying in the amount of AC power used. The “Drink” setting boils water at maximum power and then shuts off automatically, unlike the continuous flame of a JetBoil. The “Eat” setting gradually simmers a stew, while the “Pop” setting adjusts power to ensure nearly all kernels turn into popcorn before shutting off to save energy.

Testing of the Joulle revealed that boiling eight ounces of water for coffee or tea took 3 minutes and 42 seconds and used 28.06Wh. Heating 19 ounces of soup to a simmer required 8 minutes and 30 seconds, consuming 40.2Wh. Popping a serving of popcorn took 7 minutes and used 16.69Wh. This adds up to about 85Wh of consumption in a day, translating to over 10 days of use from a solar generator with a modest 1kWh capacity.

The automatic shut-off features of the Drink and Pop modes allow for convenience, reducing concerns about power wastage. Meanwhile, the Eat mode might need occasional stirring to prevent food from sticking to the stainless steel. The Joulle can be slightly cumbersome to clean, particularly in a van’s shallow sink, due to its size and the fact it is an electrical device.

The Nomad Cooking System is modular and includes an AC-powered heating base, a lid, clip-on handle, and two stackable aluminum pots with non-stick surfaces—a large 50-ounce pot for bubbling and a smaller pot for frying. These pots connect to the heating base via a proprietary connector.

The system’s power ranges from 200W to 1000W in 200W increments. The power button also serves as a timer, recording the duration of use. The base only operates when a pan is inserted and turns off when the pan is removed. Pressing or holding the button controls pause or complete shutdown of the system, respectively.

The pots heat quickly and evenly, accommodating meals for one to two people. They stay secure, unlike some portable induction cooktops, which may not offer stability on uneven surfaces. The Nomad is compact for easy storage, especially when using the carrying bag, which also reduces noise during transport.

However, some downsides include the need for hand-washing the pots due to non-submersibility, the incompatibility of the base with other pots, and the limitation of using one pot at a time because there is only one base.

Despite the higher price point, Stoke Voltaics’ Nomad Cooking System and Joulle Kettle Pot offer a convenient and efficient solution for those seeking gas-free portable cooking options. If the budget permits, both systems are recommended for individuals needing such cookware.

Source link