Kristin and I were camping in Sedona, AZ, at the free dispersed camping sites with our converted van. It was winter, and the weather had been unpredictable. Some days were ideal for hiking, while others brought rain and even snow. After a particularly wet day of hiking, we woke to a crisp, clear morning—perfect for drying out and warming up.
“Want to cook breakfast over a fire?” I asked.
“Yeah, there’s a fire ban, but the Solo Stove should count as a ‘contained’ fire pit,” Kristin replied.
“Eggs and sausage?”
“Yeah, let’s add some coffee too!”
“Of course!”
Kristin cooking breakfast over a Solo Stove while camping in the BLM of Sedona, AZ. Photo by Dalton Johnson
We hopped out of the van and pulled our Ranger Solo Stove from the back. Setting it up on the iconic red dirt, I got to work lighting the fire. Within minutes, thanks to the Solo Stove starter blocks, we had a blazing fire going. The best part? Almost no smoke. I’m not sure how they engineered it, but that feature alone makes this fire pit a favorite of ours.
As the fire burned, we warmed our hands and started drying our wet clothes. The key to cooking with the Solo Stove’s cast iron set is building a solid coal base, so we waited patiently while the coals developed. The process of getting the fire just right felt relaxing in itself, a grounding ritual that marked the start of a peaceful day.
“It’s ready. Will you bring out the kettle?”
Coffee first, always. Today, we brewed some beans from Drink Coffee Do Stuff, a roastery from our hometown in Lake Tahoe, CA. The kettle sat perfectly on the cast iron griddle, and soon the air was filled with the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee. Sipping the hot coffee in the cool morning air felt like the perfect remedy after yesterday’s cold, wet hike.
A delicious breakfast in the making over a campfire with a Solo Stove. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Next came the main course. Kristin had a surprise up her sleeve—pancakes! After oiling up the griddle, I cracked some eggs and laid them down sunny side up. Sausage links sizzled alongside them, and soon the pancakes were browning to perfection. The smell of cooking breakfast mixed with the earthy scent of the red dirt and smoke-free fire, creating an atmosphere that felt both energizing and comforting. Within minutes, we had a breakfast feast ready to go.
We plated the food and settled into our Big Agnes camp chairs. With steaming coffee mugs in hand, we enjoyed our meal while gazing out at Sedona’s breathtaking red rock landscape. The vibrant reds and oranges of the cliffs seemed to glow in the morning light, making the simple act of eating breakfast feel extraordinary.
“Want to go mountain biking today?” Kristin asked.
“Yeah, we should!”
The day ahead was full of promise, but for now, we were content savoring the warmth of the fire and the simplicity of breakfast cooked outdoors. It’s moments like these that make van life truly special—when time slows down, and you can fully appreciate the beauty of your surroundings.
Yup, we went mountain biking after breakfast. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Why Cook on a Solo Stove?
The Solo Stove isn’t just a portable fire pit; it’s a game-changer for outdoor cooking. Its efficient design creates a virtually smokeless fire, perfect for areas with fire restrictions. The compact design is easy to store in a van, and it doubles as both a heat source and a cooking solution. It’s also incredibly easy to clean up, with little ash left behind, making it a practical choice for those on the go.
Advantages of Cooking with a Solo Stove:
Ease of Use: The fire starts quickly with starter blocks, even in damp conditions.
Versatility: Pair it with the cast iron cooking set for a full outdoor kitchen.
Smokeless Design: Keeps the air clear and makes cleanup easier.
Portability: Lightweight and compact, it’s ideal for van life or camping trips.
Using the Solo Stove feels like a modern take on the timeless tradition of cooking over a fire. It brings the best of both worlds—the rustic charm of fire cooking with the convenience and efficiency of modern technology.
Tips for Cooking on a Solo Stove
Build a Strong Coal Base: A solid bed of coals ensures even cooking and makes it easier to control the heat. Be patient and let the coals develop fully before starting.
Use Cast Iron Cookware: The Solo Stove cast iron set is designed to sit perfectly on the stove and distribute heat evenly, making it a reliable choice for any meal.
Start with Coffee: Boil water first for coffee or tea, so you’re set to sip while cooking breakfast. Having a hot drink on hand makes the experience even more enjoyable.
Prep Ingredients Ahead: Have everything ready to go to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. Pre-chopping or pre-measuring can save time and reduce stress.
Keep Safety in Mind: Always set up your Solo Stove on a stable, fire-safe surface, and keep a bucket of water or sand nearby, just in case.
The Perfect Breakfast Setup
For our Solo Stove breakfast, we packed:
Eggs
Sausage links
Pancake mix
Coffee beans and a kettle
Cooking oil and utensils
A small container of syrup
The result? A delicious, hearty meal that turned a slow morning into a moment of joy and relaxation. The act of cooking together added a sense of teamwork and fun to the morning, reminding us of the simple pleasures of vanlife.
The ranger Solo Stove is the perfect size for vanlife and road trips. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Cooking on a Solo Stove adds a touch of adventure to any camping trip. Whether you’re drying out after a wet hike or simply soaking in a beautiful morning, the process is as satisfying as the meal itself. If you’re looking for a portable and efficient way to cook outdoors, the Solo Stove is worth every penny. For us, it’s become an essential part of van life—turning ordinary breakfasts into unforgettable moments.
The Solo Stove doesn’t just provide a meal; it creates an experience. It’s about more than just cooking—it’s about connecting with nature, enjoying the company of loved ones, and appreciating the beauty of simple, slow moments. Whether you’re a weekend camper or a full-time van lifer, the Solo Stove is a companion you’ll want by your side.
