How to Cook a Full Meal Using Only a CampStove 2+ and Its Accessories

By BioLite | Published: 2026-08-31

Category: How-to Guides

Learn to cook a complete meal off-grid with the BioLite CampStove 2+ and its accessories. Get step-by-step tips, meal ideas, and practical advice.

Quick Answer

Yes, you can cook a full meal with the BioLite CampStove 2+ using its versatile accessories. Plan a one-pot meal, use the right cookware, and manage heat with the fan controls. With practice, you can prepare everything from breakfast to dinner off-grid.

The BioLite CampStove 2+ is more than a fire starter—it's a portable cooking station that runs on twigs and pinecones. With its built-in fan and USB charging, it's a favorite for campers who want to cook without carrying fuel canisters. But can you really make a full meal on it? Absolutely, if you know the right techniques.

In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to cook a complete meal using only the CampStove 2+ and its accessories. From choosing the right cookware to managing heat, you'll learn practical tips that make off-grid cooking easy and enjoyable.

Understanding Your CampStove 2+ Setup

The CampStove 2+ is a biomass stove that burns small twigs and wood scraps. Its integrated fan controls airflow, letting you adjust the flame intensity. For cooking, you'll need the Portable Grill or a compatible pot. The stove's 3-pronged pot holder supports most camp cookware.

Before you start, gather dry, thumb-sized twigs. The stove burns best with small, consistent fuel. Avoid large logs—they smother the fire. Also, ensure you have a fire-safe surface and a stable base. The CampStove 2+ is compact, but it needs ventilation.

Use small, dry twigs for consistent heat.
Place the stove on a flat, non-flammable surface.
Keep extra fuel within reach but away from the flame.

Planning a One-Pot Meal

The key to a successful CampStove meal is simplicity. One-pot dishes like stews, pasta, or rice-based meals are ideal because they require minimal equipment and cook evenly. Start with a recipe that has a short cooking time, as the stove's heat output is moderate.

Consider pre-chopping ingredients at home to save time and fuel. For example, a vegetable curry with rice can be prepped in a bag and cooked in about 20 minutes. Remember, the stove's fan can boost heat, but it still takes longer than a camp stove with propane.

Choose recipes with a cook time under 30 minutes.
Pre-chop veggies and measure spices at home.
Use a pot with a lid to retain heat and moisture.

Managing Heat and Fuel

The CampStove 2+'s fan has low, medium, and high settings. Start with a high fan to ignite the fire, then reduce to medium for cooking. You'll need to add twigs every few minutes to maintain heat. The stove's window lets you see the flame, so you can adjust accordingly.

A common mistake is overloading the stove with fuel, which smothers the fire. Instead, add a few twigs at a time and let them catch. Also, keep your fuel dry—wet wood produces smoke and reduces efficiency.

Use the fan to control flame intensity, not just to boost it.
Add fuel gradually to avoid smothering.
Keep a small pile of twigs within arm's reach.

Step-by-Step: Cooking a Full Meal

Step 1: Gather and prep your ingredients: Chop vegetables, measure spices, and portion out your meal. Pre-cook rice or pasta if you want to save time. Use a sealable container to keep everything together. Checkpoint: Have all ingredients ready before you light the stove.
Step 2: Set up your CampStove 2+: Place the stove on a flat, fireproof surface. Open the fan compartment and insert batteries if needed. Have your twigs and kindling ready. Checkpoint: Ensure the stove is stable and the area is clear of flammable materials.
Step 3: Light the fire and build the flame: Place a few small twigs in the burn chamber. Light them with a lighter or matches. Turn the fan to high to get a strong flame, then reduce to medium once the fire is established. Checkpoint: The flame should be steady, not smoldering or too high.
Step 4: Start cooking your meal: Place your pot on the stove's pot holder. Add a little oil or liquid to prevent sticking. Begin with ingredients that take longer to cook, like root vegetables or meat. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Checkpoint: Keep the fan on medium and add twigs as needed to maintain heat.
Step 5: Add quick-cooking ingredients and finish: After about 10-15 minutes, add quick-cooking items like leafy greens, canned beans, or pre-cooked grains. Cover with a lid to trap heat and moisture. Cook until everything is heated through. Checkpoint: Test food for doneness before serving.
Step 6: Extinguish the fire and clean up: When done, turn off the fan and let the fire die out. Never pour water on a hot stove—it can warp metal. Once cool, empty ash and wipe down the stove. Checkpoint: Ensure the stove is completely cool before packing.

Gear That Makes It Easier

EcoZoom Versa: A durable, efficient rocket stove to meet your outdoor cooking needs. Make meals or boil water easily using wood or charcoal. Sturdy cast-iron top works with a variety of cookware. If you're cooking for a group, the EcoZoom Versa offers a larger cooking surface and can use charcoal as an alternative fuel, giving you more flexibility.
FirePit+ Carry Bag: Designed for use with BioLite FirePit+. Make transport and storage a breeze with this carry bag custom designed to fit the FirePit and all of its accessories. While not for the CampStove, this bag shows BioLite's commitment to portable cooking gear. For the CampStove, consider a similar storage solution to keep your gear clean.
FirePit+ FirePoker: The poker's broad flat edge helps stoke fuel and ensure logs are properly stacked for ideal airflow while the curved point hooks onto the FirePit's fuel rack. A similar poker is useful for adjusting twigs in the CampStove without burning your hands. The CampStove doesn't include one, so consider a long-handled utensil.

Cooking a full meal on the BioLite CampStove 2+ is not only possible but rewarding. With a little planning and practice, you'll enjoy hot, delicious meals anywhere. Remember to use dry twigs, manage your heat, and keep your recipes simple. Happy cooking!