emt1581 said:
How do you use a skillet with an insert??
Coordinate reloading such that the fuel load has burned down to coals at cooking time. Next toss in two pieces of scrap metal on which to rest an empty skillet. Bring skillet to temperature, remove to kitchen and place on stove. Apply steak to skillet, searing both sides. Return skillet with steaks to insert and broil to desired done-ness. Return skillet to kitchen then remove, cover and rest steaks. Retrieve scrap metal from insert, bank coals, and reload. Step outside. Bask in the glory of cooking-meat-smell in the cold winter air; momentarily pity vegans. Gather an arm-load of wood, return indoors and stock the rack. Gather the family around and serve the insert's bounty. Share some stories, watch the flames, appreciate what you have and remember those not as fortunate.
You could also have corn, potatoes, yams or taro wrapped in heavy foil ( or not.. ) roasting in the coals. Chicken wrapped in foil with whichever spices or sauces you prefer is delicious as well. I've found chicken with the bone-in works best.
I recall you mentioned being an Eagle Scout. I'm sure you've had the oopportunity to fill a foil pouch with various meats and vegetables, seal it, and cook it in the fire. This works really well in the insert.
If you are burning clean wood and aren't squeamish, burn the coal bed down so that it has a fluffy white coating. Brush off some ash and you can cook steak or chicken directly on the coals.
Welding gloves and a long poking stick are rather necessary. Expect to burn yourself if you're not paying attention. That being said, I cook perhaps three times a week in the insert and have burnt myself but once so far; this was clearly karmatic payback from the stove gods for it happened while roasting a big batch of corn for mf wife <whisper>during the summer</whisper>. I've since inherited a BBQ and let the insert sleep through the summer.
