How to kit out your kitchen for load-shedding

Planning a meal has gone beyond shopping and cooking, becoming a strategic operation that starts with finding ways to heat and cool your food.

That's where these gadgets come in handy:

WONDER BAG

The Wonder Bag, R369 from Faithful to Nature, is old concept with a design revamp featuring an insulated cooking bag that cooks porridge, grains, rice, soups and stews without any power.

Bring the food to a rapid boil on the stove, switch off and tuck into the bag to continue cooking.

FONDUE POT

The Boska Nero Fondue Set, R1,299 from Yuppichef.com, is a revamped '70s favourite powered by methylated spirits poured into the burner.

Prepare a broth or stock to cook veggies, strips of meat, chicken or fish and serve with dipping sauces. Drink the broth afterwards.

COOL BOX

Stop the food wastage during load-shedding with a super-strong lightweight EvaKool IceKool 104l cooler box, R4,350 from evakool.co.za.

Or use it to keep the drinks on ice (ice will keep for up to 10 days).

Pricey, but worth the investment for SA's power meltdown.

GAS BURNER

This Alva single burner canister stove with carry case, R270 from Builders Warehouse, is so nifty and convenient you may be tempted to give up the stove forever.

Safe to use, the gas canisters can be replaced and it will give you boiling water for the morning cuppa in minutes.

COFFEE POT

A day without coffee? Not a chance. This stylish Ibili Sensive Moka Pot, R419 from Yuppiechef.com, makes three cups of your chosen brew in minutes on a portable gas burner.