Bakin’ in the Sun

“If you can’t stand the heat, get out of the kitchen.” Solar chefs might add, “And take your oven with you!” Solar ovens have come a long way from the tinfoil-wrapped box, but the principle remains simple: collect energy from the sun, cook food. Zero emissions, zero energy cost, zero heat in your summer-hot house. The Solar Oven Society (SOS) Sport Solar Cooker is one of several commercially available models. Made from recycled soda bottles, the Sport can reach temperatures of 300 degrees or more on a sunny day. Food set out in the morning is done by the afternoon. Because the heat is distributed evenly, foods won’t burn. There’s no thermostat so temperatures can vary-the best solar recipes include a little flexibility. Crock pot recipes cook deliciously well. The $150 price includes two cook pots, shipping, and support for the SOS, which sends Sport ovens to developing countries. Visit solarovens.org.