- Gas shortage pushes hotels and hostels to use wood stoves
- Wood stove cooking gains attention for taste, cost, and tradition
Hyderabad: The use of wood stoves is returning in several places as cooking gas supply problems affect parts of the country. The issue has emerged after the war involving Iran, Israel, and the United States disrupted the supply of gas and oil globally. As a result, many hotels have faced difficulties and some even shut down due to lack of cooking gas.
Therefore, several establishments are turning back to traditional wood burning stoves. In earlier times, many households cooked on wood stoves. Later, kerosene and gas stoves replaced them. Electric induction stoves also became common. However, the recent situation has renewed interest in firewood based cooking.
Experts say wood stove cooking has both benefits and drawbacks. Meanwhile, cooking gas has become a global concern due to the ongoing conflict. So far, homes have not faced serious shortages. However, hostels, PG accommodations, Anganwadis, and hotels are facing difficulties in getting gas cylinders. As a result, many places across the Telugu states have started cooking with firewood again.
Several hostels and restaurants in Hyderabad have already shifted to wood stoves. Commercial gas cylinders are reportedly selling for nearly Rs. 2000 in the black market. In contrast, a bag of firewood costs between Rs. 200 and Rs. 400 and can last for about a week. Some IT hostels in the city are reportedly saving up to Rs. 5,000 per month by using firewood instead of gas.
In many villages of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, poor families still cook with firewood. Those living close to forests often use this method. Supporters of wood stove cooking also claim that food tastes better. Dishes such as rotis, biryani, and haleem cooked over firewood gain a smoky aroma. Cooking in earthen pots also adds flavor.
Some restaurants in Hyderabad, including Shah Ghouse, are using this traditional method. According to surveys, many people feel that “food cooked on wood is tastier than food cooked on gas.” They also say such food feels natural. Cooking in earthen pots can release nutrients like calcium and magnesium into food. However, cooking on gas at high heat may cause some loss of nutrients.
Traditional cooking methods also link to health beliefs. According to Ayurveda, food cooked on wood increases digestive “fire.” Many women in Hyderabad say that “digestive problems have reduced” after cooking and eating this way. Luxury restaurants are also experimenting with dishes prepared over coal and firewood.
Firewood is often easily available in rural areas. Dry sticks from fields can be collected for free or at low cost. The ash from burning wood can also be used as fertilizer. In addition, multiple pots can be placed on a wood stove, which can save time.
However, experts also warn about disadvantages. The World Health Organization reports that smoke from wood stoves may cause respiratory problems, especially for women and children. Proper ventilation or outdoor cooking can reduce this risk. Environmental concerns also remain. Excessive cutting of forests can reduce forest cover and harm wildlife habitats.
Therefore, many experts suggest using improved smokeless stoves that use less wood. These models are available for about Rs. 1500 and are considered better for health and the environment. Until gas supply stabilizes, some people believe wood stoves may serve as a temporary alternative.
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