nt. In its eighth year, The Thom Hartmann Program airs live daily, NOON – 3pm, ET simulcast as both radio and TV on over 120 radio stations. into more than 50 million homes via both nationwide satellite TV systems (DirecTV and Dish Network). Cooking by the Sun
| 01 July 2009
Even if we're trying to simplify, we live a pretty plushy life compared with people in many parts of the world. I often think that just by living in the United States, I am using way more than my share – of everything. Whatever I might do to conserve – solar oven, greywater, rain catchment, backyard garden, etc – will hardly make a difference, but each is a tiny bit I can do. Best of all, it brings satisfaction, experiment and fun into my life.
I've been cooking by the sun for several decades, even in the winter, starting with my first two ovens, made from cardboard. Foods cook slowly and without water, intensifying the flavors. A few years ago, I bought an “SOS Sport” Cooker from Solar Cookers International, a non-profit organization that uses the proceeds to send ovens to developing countries, where trees are disappearing for firewood, and cooking fires in the huts lead to lung and eye disease.
Made from recycled plastic soda bottles, this lightweight solar oven is my favorite. It's so portable and efficient that we take it on camping trips, as well as using it every day when the sun shines. Over the years, it has paid for itself several times, as I hardly ever heat my kitchen oven.
For those who enjoy solar cooking, nothing is more rewarding than to share this pleasure with others. Calling themselves “SLO Solar Cookers,” five locals from different walks of life have teamed up to present free solar cooking classes at community gatherings around San Luis Obispo County. The presentations began in a home and have spread to include a recreation hall, coffee house, public schools, Cal Poly, Cuesta College, Earth Day in the Plaza, and the Botanical Garden. One of the newest teachers is a professional chef. Another brings her solar dehydrator.
Along with tasty samples of foods cooked on the spot with no fuel, we share a short video from SolarOvens.org, showing the environmental benefits of solar cooking. We point out how any recipe can be used or adapted. The fun is in the experimentation! At the end, the participants taste for themselves how varied and delicious the foods are.
Steynberg Gallery and Coffee House (1531 Monterey, SLO) has invited us back for a third free class on Saturday, August 8, from noon to 2:00. For further information, call 544-8365 or 549-9346. Please come, and bring your friends! Future dates Include September 27, Sunday 12-2:00 and October 17, Saturday 11-1 at Steynberg Gallery.