Gas runs out in the middle of the night? 5 emergency ways to cook without panicking

foto: shutterstock.com; Pexels/Juan Pablo Serrano

Hungry stomach and need to cook immediately. Conditions like this can be panic-inducing, especially if there are small children or family members who need to eat quickly.

Brilio.net - Imagine this scenario: gas suddenly runs out in the middle of the night or when the store is closed. Want to buy new gas, the surrounding stalls are also closed. Meanwhile, the stomach is hungry and must cook immediately. Conditions like this can cause panic, especially if there are small children or family who need to eat quickly.

Don't worry! There are several emergency ways that can be done to still be able to prepare food without the need for a gas stove . Starting from using alternative cooking utensils, choosing ingredients that can be processed without cooking, to creative tricks so that food is still cooked without fire.

Here are five smart solutions when gas suddenly runs out, without having to panic, as summarized by BrilioFood from various sources.

If the gas runs out and there are electrical devices available, use the following cooking utensils as a substitute for the stove:

- Rice Cooker

photo: shutterstock.com

Rice cooker is not only for cooking rice. This tool can be used for sauting, boiling, and even steaming food.
> Menu examples: porridge, instant noodles, boiled eggs, soup, or clear vegetable soup.
> The method is simply to add water, spices, and food ingredients to the rice cooker pot, then turn on the cook or warm mode.

- Air Fryer
If you have an air fryer at home, use it to cook foods that are usually fried or baked.
> Example menu: nuggets, fried chicken, crispy tofu, or toast.
> No need for a lot of oil, just set the temperature and time as needed.

- Microwave
A microwave can be a lifesaver when it comes to heating food or cooking something in a short time.
> Menu examples: scrambled eggs, boiled potatoes, grilled sausages, or instant noodles without a stove.
> Use a heat-resistant container and adjust the heating time so that the food cooks evenly.

- Hot Water Dispenser
Dispensers that have hot water features can be used for brewing and cooking simple foods.
> Menu examples: instant noodles, oatmeal, cereal, or instant soup.
> This method is very practical for making fast food without having to light a fire.

If there is an induction stove or electric stove, of course it will be easier because it can be used directly like a regular gas stove.

If there are no alternative cooking utensils, choose foods that can be eaten directly without cooking. The following ingredients are still filling and easy to process:

- Ready to Eat Bread and Side Dishes
> White bread can be combined with jam, cheese, or ready-to-eat sausages.
> You can also use shredded beef, corned beef, or packaged rendang that can be eaten straight away.

- Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
> Vegetable or fruit salad can be a healthy choice without the need for cooking.
> Add yogurt, cheese, or mayonnaise for a more delicious taste.

- Instant or Packaged Food
> Instant cereal, biscuits, and milk can be alternatives to rice.
> Instant oatmeal can also be made with just hot water.

Foods such as tofu, fried tempeh, or pre-boiled eggs can also be eaten straight away without needing to be reheated.

If you really need to cook but don't have any electrical equipment, there are still several ways to still be able to prepare food:

- Use the remaining embers from grilling or roasting
If there was a barbecue beforehand or there is still charcoal left over from the grill, it can be used for emergency cooking.
> Place a frying pan or small pot over the coals and use low heat to cook.

- Using Candles or Matches
For extreme emergencies, candles or matches can be used to heat small foods such as sausages or marshmallows.
> Although it takes longer, this method can be used if there are no other options.

- Cook with the Water Bath Method (Bain-Marie)
If you have a thermos or bottle that can retain heat, food can be heated by immersing it in hot water.
> This method can be used to heat packaged foods, such as ready-to-eat sausages or canned side dishes.

4. Use the soaking technique to process food.

Some types of food can become softer and ready to eat simply by soaking them in hot or plain water for a while.

> Oatmeal and cereal can be soaked in milk or water for a few minutes to soften them.
> Instant noodles can still be eaten even without cooking, just soak them in hot water for longer than usual.
> Rice can be processed into cold porridge, simply soak it in water for several hours to make it soft.

This technique is widely used abroad to process food without fire, especially in emergency or camping conditions.

5. Prepare an emergency food stock for situations like this.

To avoid panic when gas suddenly runs out, it is best to always have a stock of food that can be prepared without having to cook. Here are some ingredients that can be stored as reserves:

- Ready to Eat Food
> Shredded beef, corned beef, packaged rendang, or canned sardines.
> Instant cup noodles that can be brewed with hot water.

- Dry and Long-Lasting Food
> Biscuits, cereals, granola, and nuts.
> Instant oatmeal that only needs hot water.

- Body Warming Drink
> Coffee, tea, or powdered milk that can be made with hot water.

By having this stock at home, you don't need to panic if you suddenly run out of gas at an unexpected time.

With this trick, you can still eat well and not have to stress even if you run out of gas at an unexpected time!

(brl/tin)