Can You Cook Vegetables in a Rock Boiling Setup?

Choosing the Right Rocks

When selecting rocks for a rock boiling setup, look for ones that can hold heat well, such as flat stones or rocks with a high iron oxide content. For example, a flat slate stone can retain heat for up to 30 minutes, while a granite rock may retain heat for around 20 minutes. A good starting point is to collect three to five rocks of varying sizes, including a large rock for boiling water, a smaller rock for cooking, and one or two rocks for heat retention.

Rock Boiling Technique

To cook vegetables in a rock boiling setup, first gather water and place it in a hole or depression in the ground. Then, arrange the rocks around the water, ensuring the rocks are heated evenly. Once the water is boiling, place the vegetables in a rock or a piece of bark, and cook for 10-20 minutes, depending on the type and size of the vegetables. For example, asparagus typically takes 8-12 minutes to cook, while carrots may take 15-20 minutes. To check for doneness, use a stick or a sharp rock to pierce the vegetables.