Outdoor Blog

Can You Roast Marshmallows on a Propane / Gas Fire Pit?

Published

3 years ago

June 22, 2021

Two marshmallows roasting over fire flames.

A backyard fire pit can be a lot of fun, and there are many advantages to using natural gas. In particular, it can be a cost-effective, reliable, and environmentally friendly fuel source.

This is great for an outdoor fire pit where reliability is especially important. Some people prefer wood fire pits for the ambiance but, let’s face it, getting a wood fire started can be a pain in the neck when you’re entertaining. Gas pits make it easy to flip on the fire and the fun.

A propane fire pit burns clean and produces no smoke or ash.

Can You Roast Marshmallows on a Propane Gas Fire Pit?

Still, there are some downsides to gas fire pits, and many people worry about the safety of cooking or even just roasting marshmallows over a propane flame. The good news is that it generally is safe to cook over a gas flame as long as you keep some key safety issues in mind.

In particular, it’s important to keep your gas fire pit clean and we’ll cover care and cleaning further down. Briefly, just remember that natural gas is highly combustible, and so it’s important to store and use it safely. That means following all manufacturer instructions, using common sense, and keeping your fire pit clean and well-maintained.

Cooking on a Gas Fire Pit

If you’ve ever done any grilling, you’ve probably already used a propane gas flame to cook! Most modern grills use propane fuel, although of course there are charcoal and wood-pellet grills as well. The only difference with a natural gas fire pit is that, unlike a grill, most fire pits don’t have the necessary grease catches and venting.

Thankfully, there are some workarounds for this. So you can cook in your outdoor space even if you just have a gas fire pit. For something like roasting marshmallows or even hot dogs, however, you won’t need to set anything up. Just be careful not to let anything drip into the fire bowl.

If they do, there are ways to clean it up, which we’ll also cover in a moment. But it’s always best to prevent this from happening in the first place. So make sure you have secure skewers to use if you’re going to roast a marshmallow on your gas fire pit.

Keep in mind that while it is safe to cook over a basic propane gas fire pit, there are some gas-fueled outdoor fire features that you don’t want to cook on. These can add a lot of flair to your outdoor space but they’re not the best option for cooking.

Cooking on Lava Rocks

Lava rocks are a common filler for gas fire pits, Almost every gas fire pit will have some kind of fire pit media to fill the fire bowl and distribute the flames more easily. This makes the pit a more beautiful outdoor feature, but it can sometimes be a problem for cooking.

You want to make sure the lava rocks you’re using have been weathered and cleaned before cooking over them. Not only do fresh lava rocks emit some dangerous gasses, but they can also explode! This is rare though, and most commercially available lava rocks have been properly treated before the sale.

Cooking on Fire Glass

Fire glass on the other hand, is a perfectly safe fire pit media to cook over. Fire glass looks pretty spectacular, and it’s a bit easier to clean up than other fire pit media.

Unlike lava rocks, fire glass is usually smooth. You should still be careful not to drip marshmallow gunk or other food into the fire pit, but fire glass is one of the easier options to clean. In particular, you can easily replace any “beads” of glass that get messy and this is usually fairly cheap.

Cooking on a Fire Table

Gas fire tables are not the best for cooking. Because they tend to have more complicated designs, fore tables are sometimes made to be decorative only. With lots of complicated parts, it’s easier to mess up than a simple propane fire pit.

Still, a fire table can look quite beautiful, and it’s understandable to want to fire up some marshmallows when you’re gathered around. Just like any other gas flame fire feature, you can do simple things like roasting marshmallows or hot dogs without much work.

Just be careful not to drop a melty marshmallow into the table’s mechanisms. That said, some fire tables come with cooking equipment that makes it safe and easy to cook right on your fire feature. There are also fire tables available that take a variety of different fuels and it may be a good idea to look into alternatives that allow you to use wood or charcoal. These tend to be a bit better designed for cooking over.

Gas Fire Cooking Tips

The key to effective and safe outdoor living with a gas fire pit is to account for drippings and grease. The main problem with cooking on a gas fire pit is that grease and dripped food can clog the gas lines and create other problems for the pit itself.

There is not really any risk of dangerous chemicals entering the food and it’s not even a problem of weird smells or tastes. It’s really about making sure you keep your fire pit clean to avoid difficult clean-up or a ruined gas pit. So how can you cook with a propane tank fire pit while keeping your outdoor living space clean and functional?

The simplest option is to use burner pans. These are pans that fit over your fire pit and allow the flame to heat the food without exposing the burners or other elements to food mess. You’ll want to get one that has a lip to keep grease from dripping out.

Grill boards are a no-go because too much grease falls through the slats. The other option for cooking in an outdoor space with a gas fire element is to use a simple cast iron pan over the open flame. Just like a burner pan, a cast iron pan will prevent food from dripping into the fire bowl.

Make sure to take care when moving the pan, however, as it will heat up quite a bit! Cast iron skillets are great for a lot of things, and they have just the rustic feel you want when cooking over an outdoor fire.

How Many BTUs Do I Need to Cook?

One advantage of the gas fire pit is that it’s a bit easier to control the size, temperature, and other aspects of the flame with gas. The average gas fire pit ranges from about 30,000 to 150,000 BTU. A BTU or British Thermal Unit is a measurement of thermal energy.

A simple way to think about it is that this is how much heat is being provided. For cooking, the amount of heat provided by a gas fire is usually plenty! On the subject of cost, one thing to keep in mind is that while a gas fire pit may cost more upfront, they do tend to pay for themselves pretty quickly.

Propane is cheaper than other fuels and with the right care, a gas fire pit can provide family fun for a long time to come. While different materials can burn hotter (and provide more heat), another advantage of propane is that it’s a relatively cheap fuel per BTU.

So you can get your fire up to the needed temperature for cooking accurately and easily with gas. This is one reason why gas grills are so popular. It’s a more precise operation than using charcoal or wood.

Gas Fire Pit Venting

While it’s perfectly safe to cook over a gas fire pit, it’s important to pay attention to potential risks as well as safety features and procedures. In particular, you’ll want to make sure your gas fire pit has proper ventilation before using it for anything.

This helps with cooking in particular because potentially dangerous chemicals need to be vented off of any fire. It’s easy with a wood fire on the ground to make sure there’s proper airflow and ventilation, but gas fires can be a bit trickier as they’re often integrated into other outdoor features and are built to take up less space.

Not only can improper ventilation be dangerous for you and your family, but it can also damage the materials around the fire pit. Plus, with insufficient airflow, it’s hard to get a flame big and hot enough to cook on. After all, fire needs oxygen to keep burning.

The way to make sure your gas fire pit has proper ventilation is to have it installed by a professional. There are versions that you can install yourself, but with gas especially, it’s good to have a professional eye on hand. You can also ask about ventilation during the installation and talk to your technician before the install to identify a good place for the pit. Placement will be crucial to maintaining proper ventilation and airflow.

Cleaning A Gas Fire Pit

So as you’ve probably guessed, it’s important to know how to clean and maintain your gas fire pit. Of course, it’s best to avoid messes in the first place as they can be a real pain to clean. Unlike wood fire pits, you can’t just hose down the inside of a gas fire pit.

It takes a little more precision, and there are some components that you shouldn’t disassemble or try to clean at all. If you do run into a situation where your gas line is clogged or you have a major, burned-on mess, it’s best to call a professional for help.

However, there are some very basic cleaning tasks that you can and should do on your own. You can use water and a little bit of soap to wipe down the interior. Make sure to remove the gas pit media first (lava rocks, glass, etc.), and be sure to fully dry the interior when you’re done.

You should also take care not to jostle or move anything too much. Gas fire pits are integrated units, so it can cause major problems if you jostle the gas line for instance. When in doubt, ask a professional.

Roasting marshmallow over a gas fire

How to Roast Marshmallows with Gas

One thing to remember is that, unlike grills, gas fire pits are not rated for cooking. So, while it’s generally safe, you’ll want to be careful you aren’t violating warranty conditions or using your gas fire pit in a way that will cause permanent damage.

You should also be aware of any local laws or regulations to be sure you’re operating within legal guidelines when cooking on a gas fire pit. The main thing you can do while roasting marshmallows to avoid this fallout is to invest in secure roasting sticks.

You can always use regular skewers in a pinch, but purpose-made roasting sticks are a good idea if you’re roasting on a gas flame. You’ll also want to be conservative with how long you roast them. While some people like the taste of a burnt marshmallow, they’re not only not great for your health, they’re risky in a gas pit.

It’s simple physics. As a marshmallow heats up, the gelatin inside breaks down, giving us that wonderful, gooey texture. If it breaks down too much though, the marshmallow will fall off the stick and into your fire pit. It’s a huge mess to clean and can damage your fire pit permanently, so be careful not to leave your marshmallows on too long.

How to Make S’mores

With all this talk of marshmallows and s’mores, we should briefly look at how to construct a s’more. It’s a very simple and classic campfire treat. Most Americans probably know how to make one already, but if not, here’s what to do:

Gather your ingredients. You’ll need graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate bars. Hershey’s is a classic choice.
Then, take your mallow and place it at the end of a secure, purpose-made roasting stick. Hold it over the flame and toast it until it’s golden brown on most sides. Again, some people like them burned, but this is risky with a gas fire pit.
When your marshmallow is fully roasted, place a few squares of chocolate bar on one graham cracker.
Finally, squish the roasted marshmallow between this cracker and another, with the chocolate on the inside.
The heat of the roasted mallow will melt the chocolate a bit, making for a gooey, messy, but delicious treat.

It’s a summertime classic, and there’s no reason to skip it just because you have a gas fire pit. Just be careful to avoid spills and drips, and make sure to clean your fire pit thoroughly if you do have a marshmallow fall in.

Final Verdict

Gas fire pits can be perfectly safe for cooking, as long as you keep some key safety and cleaning parameters in mind. Make sure you have proper ventilation, a way to prevent grease and other food waste from getting into the components, and a solid understanding of how to operate your gas pit.

From there you should be ready to roast marshmallows, cook a hot dog, or even get into more serious campfire cooking! Remember, if you do want to get serious about cooking on a gas flame, a burner pan or cast iron pan is your best friend. Bon appetit!

Bonus tip: Check out this great video on someone who forges their own roasting sticks!

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

1 month ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.

Outdoor Blog

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Sam Brooks

The wilderness beckons with the promise of adventure, but any seasoned hunter knows that what you wear can make or break your experience. Gone are the days when outdoor apparel was purely utilitarian. Today, fashion and functionality blend seamlessly to create gear that’s not only practical but also stylish. From the latest camouflage patterns to weather-resistant fabrics, let’s explore the evolution of outdoor apparel and how it’s revolutionizing the way we approach the great outdoors.

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Camouflage has come a long way from the simple green and brown patterns of yesteryear. Modern camouflage designs are now a blend of advanced science and cutting-edge style. These patterns aren’t just about blending into the background; they’re about creating an optical illusion that makes the wearer nearly invisible to wildlife.

Contemporary camo gear incorporates a variety of colors and textures to match different environments, from dense forests to arid deserts. This evolution in design is as much about aesthetics as it is about effectiveness, allowing hunters to move through their chosen terrain with confidence and stealth.

The shift towards more sophisticated camouflage patterns also reflects a broader trend in outdoor apparel: the desire for gear that looks good and performs even better. Hunters today want apparel that makes a statement while still providing the ultimate in concealment. Whether it’s a jacket with a sleek, modern design or pants that offer the perfect balance of comfort and camouflage, today’s outdoor apparel combines fashion and function like never before.

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Layering is a critical concept in outdoor apparel, offering both practical and aesthetic benefits. Modern layering systems are designed to regulate body temperature and provide protection from the elements. However, they also offer a chance to showcase personal style. Successful layering starts with choosing pieces that work well together both functionally and visually.

Base layers, for instance, have evolved from simple thermal wear to stylish garments that can be worn on their own or as part of a layered ensemble. These pieces are often made from advanced fabrics that provide warmth without bulk, ensuring that hunters can stay comfortable and mobile. Mid-layers add another dimension of style and functionality, offering insulation while allowing for breathability. Softshell jackets and vests come in many different colors and designs, making it easy to find pieces that suit individual tastes.

Layering can also help you catch different kinds of animals. For instance, when you’re looking for turkey hunting tips, it’s important to look at the best kinds of layering to stay incognito and catch the best birds. Choosing the right layers can make a significant difference in staying comfortable and concealed during long hours in the field.

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

Footwear is another area where outdoor apparel has seen significant evolution. In the past, hunting boots were purely functional, but, today, they still offer these essential qualities but have also become a fashion statement. Modern hunting boots come in a variety of styles, from traditional leather to contemporary synthetic materials, and are available in a range of colors and designs.

The advancements in footwear technology have been remarkable. Today’s hunting boots are designed to be lightweight yet durable, with features like waterproof membranes, breathable linings, and advanced traction systems. These innovations ensure that hunters can move comfortably and safely through any environment. But it’s not just about functionality; the aesthetic appeal of modern hunting boots is undeniable. Many boots are designed with sleek, stylish lines that make them suitable for wearing both in the field and in more casual settings.

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

When it comes to hunting, high-performance gear is a game-changer. This is the section where outdoor apparel truly shines, combining cutting-edge technology with sleek design to create products that offer unmatched performance. Performance hunting gear includes everything from moisture-wicking base layers to high-tech outerwear designed to withstand the harshest conditions.

Today’s high-performance apparel utilizes advanced materials that are both lightweight and durable. Fabrics like Gore-Tex and other proprietary blends offer superior protection against wind and water while maintaining breathability. These materials help regulate body temperature, keeping hunters comfortable in a wide range of environments. In addition to these practical benefits, high-performance gear often features ergonomic designs that allow for a full range of motion, ensuring that hunters can move freely and easily.

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter

Sustainability has become an increasingly important consideration in the world of outdoor apparel. Hunters who are passionate about preserving the wilderness they love to explore are now seeking out eco-friendly clothing options that minimize environmental impact. Eco-friendly outdoor apparel is made from sustainable materials such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and biodegradable fibers. These materials offer the same performance benefits as traditional fabrics but with a lower environmental footprint.

Outdoor Blog

The Role of Camouflage in Wildlife Photography and Hunting

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Caleb Cole

Camouflage plays a vital role in the worlds of wildlife photography and hunting, serving as an indispensable tool for enthusiasts and professionals alike. It’s not just about blending into the environment; it’s about becoming a part of it. Camouflage allows for closer interactions with wildlife, ensuring more successful hunts and breathtaking photographs. Here, we explore the key roles camouflage plays in these outdoor activities.

Blending In: The Art of Disappearing

One of the primary roles of camouflage is to help the wearer blend seamlessly into their surroundings. This art of disappearing is crucial whether you’re capturing a stunning image of a deer at dawn or patiently waiting for your prey during hunting season. In wildlife photography, the goal is to get as close as possible without disturbing the natural behavior of the animals. Camouflage clothing, face paint, and even equipment coverings can make the difference between a once-in-a-lifetime shot and a missed opportunity.

For hunters, blending into the environment increases the chances of a successful hunt. Animals have keen senses, and the slightest hint of an unnatural shape or color can send them running. Camouflage gear allows hunters to become virtually invisible. This skill of blending in isn’t just about wearing the right colors; it’s about understanding the terrain, the light, and how to move with stealth.

Reducing the Human Scent and Sound

Another critical aspect of camouflage in both photography and hunting is the reduction of human scent and sound. Animals naturally use their sense of smell and hearing to detect potential threats. Successful hunting trips often hinge on the ability to minimize human presence in these sensory fields. Specially designed camouflage clothing can help mask human odors, making it harder for animals to pick up on your scent.

Similarly, wildlife photographers need to consider their scent and sound output. Even the most visually inconspicuous photographer can ruin a perfect shot if their scent or a stray noise alerts the animals. Using scent-masking sprays and moving with extreme caution are part of the camouflage strategy, ensuring that photographers can get closer to their subjects without causing alarm.

Enhancing Patience and Stealth

Patience and stealth are virtues that every hunter and wildlife photographer must possess, and camouflage gear enhances these qualities. When you’re properly camouflaged, you can afford to be more patient, knowing that you are less likely to be detected. This confidence allows for longer waiting periods in prime locations, increasing the chances of capturing that perfect shot or making a successful kill.

For wildlife photographers, the need for patience is paramount. Animals won’t always show up when you want them to, and sudden movements can ruin hours of careful preparation. Camouflage helps in remaining undetected, allowing photographers to wait silently and still for the right moment. Hunters also benefit from this patience, as it enables them to wait for the ideal shot without rushing and potentially missing their target.

Specialized Camouflage for Different Hunts: Moose Hunting

Different types of hunting require specialized camouflage, and moose hunting is a prime example. Moose are large, elusive animals often found in dense forests and swampy areas. Successful moose hunters understand the need for specific camouflage patterns that mimic the unique environments where moose thrive. Moose hunting clothes are designed to blend into the dark, shadowy forests and marshes, making hunters virtually invisible to these keen-eyed creatures.

During moose hunting season, the right camouflage can make or break your experience. Moose have excellent vision and can easily detect unnatural movements or colors. By wearing appropriate camouflage, hunters can move quietly and position themselves for a clear shot without spooking their quarry.

The specialized gear often includes clothing that covers the entire body, including gloves and face masks, ensuring that no part of the hunter stands out against the natural backdrop. This thorough approach is essential in moose hunting, where patience and precision are key.

Capturing Authentic Wildlife Behavior

Wildlife photography isn’t just about taking beautiful pictures; it’s about capturing authentic wildlife behavior. Camouflage allows photographers to become invisible observers, documenting animals in their natural state without any human interference. This is particularly important for conservation efforts, as understanding genuine animal behavior can inform better strategies for protecting various species and their habitats.

Photographers who use camouflage can get closer to their subjects, often capturing moments that would be impossible to see from a distance. This proximity results in more intimate and detailed shots, showcasing the animals’ daily activities, interactions, and environments.

The authenticity of these images can inspire greater appreciation and respect for wildlife, encouraging more people to support conservation initiatives. By blending into the environment, photographers can witness and document behaviors that might otherwise go unnoticed, providing invaluable insights into the natural world.

outdoorcommand.com (Post 2)

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter