A range cooker is an essential feature in any country kitchen, serving as a cozy focal point that does more than just prepare meals. It's a versatile tool with a range of alternative applications.
While often called Agas, this term comes from a well-known British brand, yet there are various reputable manufacturers, meaning these tips are applicable regardless of your range cooker brand.
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'Many people utilize their range cookers for a variety of purposes,' shares a brand ambassador. 'Over the years, we've heard numerous stories, like lambs being warmed in the oven or even ostrich eggs hatching!'
These suggestions may sound unusual, but there's a wealth of benefits to be had by using your range cooker in different ways.
1. Drying and Pressing Laundry
Range cookers are excellent for drying small laundry loads. 'Hang damp dishcloths on the rail, stack clothes on the lid, or consider a drying rack that hangs above the cooker,' suggests a leading electric range cooker manufacturer.
If ironing isn't your favorite chore, use your range cooker to smooth out wrinkles. 'Fold laundry and place it on the simmering plate lid to minimize or even eliminate ironing,' they add. This process can take a few hours, or you can leave items overnight.
This technique is best for smaller items like napkins, cloths, t-shirts, and pillowcases. To avoid browning, place a protective cover over the hotplate.
2. Dehydrating Fruits and Vegetables
'Your range cooker can be used for drying fruit, which is particularly handy during the festive season,' notes the expert.
For small fruits, you can dry them whole, but larger fruits like oranges should be sliced first. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with greaseproof paper and place in the warming oven for one to two hours until fully dried.
This method is also effective for tomatoes, perfect for those with a bountiful harvest. Halve them and lay them cut side up on the tray. Once dehydrated, store them in a jar with olive oil.
A noted home cook shared that they frequently use their range cooker for dehydrating food. 'I dry seeds at the back of my cooker,' they explain. 'When I have extra mushrooms, I slice them and place them back there to dry. It's invaluable to me!'
3. Drying Herbs
If you have fresh herbs that need to be used before wilting, drying them will preserve their flavor for cooking. This method works especially well with oregano, thyme, rosemary, sage, mint, and basil.
Use only fresh herbs—avoid wilted or discolored leaves. Stick to whole stems rather than individual leaves, focusing on newer growth as older parts may taste bitter.
Simply arrange the herbs on a baking sheet in the warming oven for an hour or two, checking periodically. Once dried and crisp, grind them using a mortar and pestle and store in an airtight container.
4. Proving Dough
A range cooker is a baker's best companion. It not only bakes bread beautifully but also provides the ideal temperature for dough to rise.
'Sourdough that's been refrigerated will revive perfectly next to the cooker,' they note.
A famous baker goes a step further with their range cooker. 'I prepare flatbreads directly on the hotplate, which is wonderful,' they mentioned. They also utilize their range cooker as a pizza oven. 'It generates a higher temperature than a conventional oven, resulting in a great crisp.'
5. Loosening Stubborn Lids
If you face a tight metal lid on a jar, instead of forcing it open and risking damage, try heating it on the range.
'Tight metal jar lids can be placed lid down on the hot plate – as the metal expands, the lid loosens,' they explain. 'Just remember to use a cloth when opening!'
6. Sterilizing Jars for Preserves
Besides loosening lids, range cookers are also great for sterilizing jars before making preserves like jams. Thoroughly wash the jars with soapy water, rinse, then place them in the simmering oven for about 10-15 minutes. Remove them when you're ready to fill with your preserves.
If using Kilner jars, make sure you boil the rubber seals to sterilize them too.
7. Crafting at Home
'We frequently encounter individuals who set up small businesses in their kitchens with their range cooker at the center,' shares a brand ambassador. 'For example, they might create artisan soaps or candles.'
A range cooker can gently melt candle wax or soap without scorching, while essential oils infuse throughout the process, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma.
8. Creating Scented Fire Lighters
Don't discard citrus peels after juicing; they make excellent fire starters. 'Dried citrus rinds serve as fantastic fire lighters,' they emphasize.
Simply dry the rinds in the warming oven until they harden completely. When it's time to light a fire, place the rind between newspaper and kindling, and ignite. Stand back and enjoy the aromatic citrus scent as your fire ignites.
9. Replacing Other Appliances
A range cooker is a highly versatile appliance that can substitute for many others. 'It can replace an electric kettle, toaster, or bread maker,' a brand representative points out.
'Many owners turn on their heating later in the year, as the ambient heat from the cooker keeps the kitchen warm and reduces the chill in adjoining rooms,' they add. This can lead to less reliance on radiators in the kitchen.
If you use your range cooker for drying clothes, it can also replace a tumble dryer.
10. Keeping Things Cozy
One of the most evident and useful applications for a range cooker is keeping items warm. 'It can warm everything from boots and outdoor gear to pets,' they note.
'On chilly evenings, warm your pajamas before bed,' they suggest. This appliance can also keep a teapot or cup warm, saving you the hassle of making another brew when it cools down. Isn't that a comforting thought?
