From the Autumn 2010 Issue of PopUp Times Magazine
By C.R. Lovald
“Wow! Oh, wow!”
That was the only thing I could say as I unpacked the Cobb Premiere cooking system upon its arrival. And I kept right on saying it as I put this versatile system through its paces.
Conceived in South Africa, Cobb cookers were originally developed to cook efficiently in order to help conserve scarce cooking fuel. They do that wonderfully. Eight to ten charcoal briquettes will easily cook a full meal for four people. No wonder Time magazine judged it one of the best inventions of the year in 2001
The Cobb’s innovative design includes a moat inside the stainless steel inner bowl. It’s easy to add up to one cup of liquid to the moat, which surrounds the chamber containing the coals. The liquid in the moat simmers, infusing flavor into the foods cooked on the cooking surface above. Beer, wine, herbs and spices, the sky’s the limit with this system when it comes to adding flavor to food. The moat can also be used to cook side dishes such as rice or baked potatoes.
Using even fewer coals, it’s possible to use the Cobb system as a smoker. Cooking low and slow, the Cobb with its high domed lid allows the chef to make real barbecue. Cobb’s optional roasting rack makes barbecuing simple; while an optional cast iron smoking pot holds wood chips amidst the coals to add that wonderful smoky flavor.
Without its lid, the Cobb can be used to fry foods using the frying pan accessory. A handy wok allows for stir-frying. Both of these beautifully built pieces feature encapsulated aluminum bottoms to provide even heating. The frying pan includes a non-stick surface for easy clean-up, while the wok has cool-touch wooden handles.
Due to its design, flare-ups are completely eliminated with the Cobb system. Fat is drained away and not allowed to come in contact with the coals.
Perhaps the best feature of the Cobb is the fact it can be used anywhere, because the outer base of the unit does not get hot. I use this cooker on my wood deck fearlessly! It’s easy and safe to pick the base up and move it around using bare hands. That makes it safe to use on campground picnic tables, on boats, on docks, decks, or anywhere else you can find a sturdy surface to set it on.
For camping, the Cobb can’t be beat. It comes with a handy and durable carry bag, allowing the entire system to be packed up into a small package. This is perfect for small trailers where space is at a premium. Yet while the Cobb is small in stature, its uses are virtually limitless.
I really enjoy cooking with this amazing system, and due to the quality of its craftsmanship, expect to continue doing so for a long time. Not only does it look cool with its woven stainless-steel mesh base, it lives up to all its claims, and then some.
More information about this wonderful cooking system is available at www.cobbq.com.
