Cooking Without Power: 5 Easy Off-Grid Methods

When the lights go out, one of the first questions people panic about is:
“How am I going to cook?”

Or even more important, “How do I boil water for coffee?”

A power outage doesn’t mean you’re stuck eating cold food or junk snacks. With a little preparation and the right tools, you can still make hot, comforting meals for you and your family—no electricity required.

Here are five simple off-grid cooking methods that work for beginners, renters, and families on a budget.

1. Propane or Butane Camp Stove

Like the Coleman Camp Stove. This is one of the easiest and most reliable ways to cook without power.

Why it’s great:

• Quick to set up
• Works indoors only if rated for indoor use (most are for outdoor use only)
• Boils water fast and cooks full meals

You’ll Need:

• Stove + propane fuel canisters
• Lighter or matches
• Pot or pan
• Bonus: get this oven so you can easily bake!

Safety: Use outdoors or in a well-ventilated area indoors (like a cracked window) unless the stove is specifically approved for indoor use.

2. BBQ Grill (Gas or Charcoal)

Dust off the grill—it’s not just for burgers.

Why it’s great:

• Most people already own one
• Can cook almost anything
• Charcoal adds smoky flavor that boosts morale during a stressful time

Tip: Keep a backup bag of charcoal or an extra propane tank stored safely.

3. Rocket Stove or DIY Hobo Stove

You can DIY your own rocket stove or hobo stove. I love this Versa Rocket Stove. A rocket stove uses small sticks and twigs as fuel—no propane required.

Why it’s great:

• Very fuel-efficient
• Burns hot with very little wood
• You can make one DIY out of cans or bricks

Good for: Heating water, soups, pasta, oatmeal, canned meals.

4. Solar Oven

You can DIY one of your own or, the best one on the market right now is the All American. Let the sun do the work for you.

Why it’s great:

• No fuel needed
• Kid-friendly and safe to use
• Cook and bake with it

Downside: Works best on sunny days and may take longer to cook. You’ll need to think of it like a slow cooker.

5. Fire Pit or Outdoor Fireplace

If you can safely build or use a fire pit, it’s one of the most reliable off-grid cooking methods.

Why it’s great:

• Easy source of heat + cooking
• Works for grilling, boiling, pans, and foil packet meals

Safety: Only use where fires are allowed, and always follow proper fire safety guidelines, especially keeping a way to extinguish flames nearby.

Quick Off-Grid Cooking Kit Checklist

Keep these supplies stored together so you’re ready to cook anytime:

• Camp stove + propane fuel
• Lighter + waterproof matches
• Cast iron or stainless-steel pan
• Pot for boiling water
• Manual can opener
• Heat-proof gloves
• Foil + resealable bags
• Seasonings & shelf-stable ingredients

Want a more in-depth look at how to be prepared for power outages?

Download my Ultimate Power Outage Survival Guide!

Final Thoughts

Cooking or boiling water without electricity doesn’t have to be stressful. If you have two or three of these methods ready, you’ll be able to cook safely in everything from a weekend blackout to a longer emergency.

Action: Pick one off-grid cooking method to set up this month. You don’t need them all—just start with what fits your living situation.