The Skottle: Cooking With Farm Equipment?

Making some delicious burgers… with farm equipment?

In this, our latest (and only) episode of “Cooking with Farm Equipment” we will be tilling a field prior to sowing our crops using a disc harrow borrowed from our friend, Jerry L’Ecuyer… This important implement will not only break up our soil, chop up old weeds and crop remains, but later it will also help us make one hell of a good cheeseburger. You heard right.Although an already well-known and respected product, I’ll go ahead and reintroduce the Skottle Grill produced and sold by Tembo Tusk, Jerry’s own company that supplies innovative gear for the road less traveled. To clear up any confusion I may have caused with the farming equipment reference, and to show I was only being slightly facetious, I borrowed this excerpt from Tembo Tusk’s own website:

“The history of the Skottle comes from the South African farmer and finding a secondary use for old harrow discs by turning them into an outdoor cooking utensil they could use while out in the fields. The Skottle caught on with the public in the 1940s and 50s and is now synonymous with grilling in South Africa. Anything that can be cooked in a pan, skillet or on a grill can be cooked in a Skottle.”

Re-purposed farming equipment used to “Braai” (Afrikaans for “grill”) in the field. See? We aren’t completely full of it, this time. So, let’s get down to the meat and potatoes of this braai, and talk about what the Skottle can do: anything, and everything. The end.

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Seriously though, I haven’t been able to think of anything you can’t cook in this thing, and neither can anyone else I’ve spoken to about it.

Cooking on the Skottle

The cast iron disc speaks for itself in terms of quality and longevity, but the seasoning and smoothness of the surface is, in my opinion, the Skottle’s most desirable feature because it is insanely easy to clean. I admit, I’ve had a struggle with cast iron products in the back-country and, until now, thought I’d never use it again. But with low heat and a little water, you can easily scrape anything off the surface with a simple and inexpensive wooden spatula.

“Did I Break My Skottle?” (Spoiler: Nope.)

Now, before you panic and assume you’ve ruined your Skottle because the seasoning looks a little worse for wear—take a breath. Unless you’ve launched it like a discus off a John Deere, your Skottle is built tougher than most pickup trucks at a county fair. In other words, it’s nowhere near broken.

If you find a patch where the seasoning has mysteriously vanished (the dreaded “bald spot”), chances are you simply overheated things or perhaps let your culinary enthusiasm outpace your flame control. No worries—here’s how to bring your trusty grill back to glory:

Turn down the heat. Skottles like a gentle flame. Think low and slow, not full blast from a space shuttle.
Add some moisture. Before you channel your inner Gordon Ramsay, toss in a splash of water, oil, or even a bit of your favorite beverage (yes, beer totally counts). Moisture helps regulate the cooking surface and prevents burning off the seasoning.
Re-season in three easy steps:
1. Once cooled, rub a light coat of cooking oil over the trouble spot with a paper towel.
2. Fire up the burner and let it heat until the oil just starts to smoke.
3. Let it cool, then repeat once or twice for good measure.

With a little love and repeated use, your Skottle’s surface will only get better—think cast iron skillet at your grandma’s house, but with a much better view.

Reviving Your Skottle’s Seasoning

At some point, you might crank up the burner just a bit too much (we’ve all been there in pursuit of the perfect sear) only to discover a “bald spot” on your otherwise glorious Skottle. Fear not—this is not the end for your trusty field pan, nor any cause for panic.

Here’s how to restore that non-stick magic:

Turn down the heat. The number one culprit for stripped seasoning is excessive flame—slow and steady wins this race.
Choose your favorite oil. Avocado, canola, or even a dash of bacon grease—whatever you’d use to season your cast iron at home.
Apply a thin layer. Use a paper towel (or, for the eco-conscious, a dedicated cloth) to rub a light coat of oil over the affected surface.
Fire it up. Turn the heat on medium and let the oil heat until it just starts to smoke and disappear. This signals the oil polymerizing, forming that all-important non-stick layer.
Rinse and repeat. Let your Skottle cool, then apply a fresh coat of oil and repeat the process once or twice more for good measure.

With each adventure (and each meal), your Skottle only gets better—just like any good cast iron, the more love you give it, the more it loves you back. And if you ever see a scorched patch again, you know exactly what to do.

Cleaning the Skottle Grill

Now, if you ever find yourself gazing sorrowfully (or cursing quietly) at a stubborn, burned-on patch that just won’t budge, fret not—you’re only a few simple steps away from a spotless cooking surface. Here’s how I tackle the dreaded “crispy remains” scenario:

First, pour just enough water into the Skottle to cover the offending crust.
Fire up your burner and let the water heat up. Ten minutes or so should do the trick—put your feet up, admire your surroundings, maybe contemplate your choices.
As things begin to loosen, grab your trusty wooden spatula and gently scrape away the stubborn bits. No need for fancy gadgets—a simple, inexpensive spatula works wonders here.
Once the major offenders have surrendered, drain the water away. Then, with the pan still hot over the burner, toss in a splash more water. You’ll get a dramatic cloud of steam, which helps vanquish any remaining residue.
Wipe it all down with a paper towel, then give the Skottle a light sheen of cooking oil. That’s it: ready for your next culinary masterpiece.

Even if dinner got a little out of hand, your Skottle will be good as new with barely any elbow grease—and not a drop of dish soap in sight.

The 3 legs that support the grill are very sturdy and can be installed or removed in seconds with a few turns of a threaded eye bolt, and the Coleman single-burner stove can be left attached to the grill’s cradle underneath for an even more convenient, and quick setup. Coleman propane cylinders screw right into the base of the burner, but I am using a 5 lb LP tank with an LP appliance hose instead, for longer use and less waste. If you decide to go that route, get the appliance hose with the green fitting on the tank side (not black) because it flows better.

Is a 10,000 BTU Burner Up to the Task?

Absolutely—and in fact, you might be surprised at just how much heat you can get out of that little burner. In my experience (and the collective wisdom of many a camp chef), the real secret is restraint: crank it up high just long enough to get the Skottle preheated, then dial it back to medium or even low for most of your cooking.

Blasting it on full power for the whole meal is a rookie move—trust me, it’s easier to scorch your breakfast than you might think. Whether you’re flipping pancakes, searing burgers, or sautéing a mountain of veggies, the 10,000 BTUs more than deliver when used with a bit of finesse.

So if you’re worried about whether it’ll keep up with your culinary ambitions, relax. It’s got horsepower to spare, provided you let the cast iron do its thing and avoid the temptation to cook everything at “volcano” level.

How Hot Does the Skottle Get?

If you’re wondering whether the Skottle can bring the heat, let me put your worries to rest: it absolutely can. Grab your spatula and your inner pyromaniac—because the cast iron disc gets seriously toasty across its entire surface. In fact, when we tipped the scales with an infrared thermometer (thanks, science!), temps soared well above 500°F smack in the middle. Now, that’s enough to sear steak, blacken veggies, or crisp up hashbrowns like you’re running a roadside diner.

For those who prefer the “low and slow” approach, you can easily dial things back by adjusting your burner—whether you’re hooked up to a compact Coleman propane cylinder or a beefier LP tank with that green-knobbed hose (which, I promise, makes a world of difference for flow).

In summary: whether you’re craving a quick stir-fry or a perfectly charred burger, the Skottle’s heat range will have you covered. And if you happen to wield a FLIR camera for those Instagram bragging rights, you’ll see those fiery numbers light up just as much as your taste buds.

Want to See the Skottle in Action?

If you’re the type who likes a little show-and-tell before diving in (or banishing instruction manuals to the trash), you’re in luck. There are a handful of fantastic video guides out there that’ll walk you through every step—from putting the Skottle together, to seasoning its cast iron surface, to keeping it sparkling clean after your wilderness feast.

Assembly & Hands-on Demos: Check out the YouTube channels from folks like Family Adventures Overlanding. Jeremy does a bang-up job breaking down the setup and sharing real-world cooking tips, all without putting you to sleep.
Seasoning Cast Iron: Not sure how to give your Skottle its slick, nonstick sheen? The good people at Tasty have a straightforward video on seasoning a cast iron pan—the same methods work for your Skottle. Watch it once, and you’ll feel like a cast iron wizard for life.
Cleaning Tips: For those inevitable post-burger messes, look for video walk-throughs specifically on cleaning your Skottle. Jeremy (yes, him again) has you covered with simple techniques that use nothing but a little water, some heat, and a humble wooden spatula.

Curious About Those Tiny Holes?

If you’ve found yourself eyeing the little holes at the end of the Skottle Grill’s legs and wondering if you’re supposed to do some secret alignment ritual or perhaps attach a set of disco lights—rest easy. Those holes are merely a byproduct of the powder-coating process during manufacturing, not a hidden design feature.

You don’t need to pay them any mind, line them up with anything, or worry that you’re missing a step in the assembly. Just thread in those eye bolts, get the legs set up, and focus on what’s important: what’s for dinner.

So, whether you’re a visual learner or just prefer a little guidance before the first sizzle, these online resources will have you cooking—and cleaning—like a pro in no time.

Tackling the Wind: Using the Skottle’s Wind Shield

Now, let’s talk about everyone’s favorite camp kitchen nemesis—wind. While the Skottle is a beast in the field, a blustery breeze can mess with your flame and your culinary ambitions. Enter the wind shield—a simple bit of kit that makes a world of difference when the weather decides to put on a show.

Using it couldn’t be easier: first, take a moment to remove the burner from the cage underneath the cooking disc. (Don’t worry, nothing here requires a degree in engineering—just a quick lift out.) Slip the wind shield into the empty cage so it sits snugly in place, then reinstall the burner.

Pro tip: aim the open end of the shield straight into the wind. This channels airflow and helps keep your flame steady, letting you focus on breakfast instead of battling the elements.

With your defenses in place, you’ll be flipping pancakes and searing burgers like a pro—even when Mother Nature tries to add her own “seasoning” to the mix.

Should You Add a Wind Shield to Your Skottle Grill Setup?

Now, about that wind shield everyone keeps asking about—do you really need it? Well, unless you’ve set up camp on a windswept prairie or plan to chase tumbleweeds across the Mojave, you can probably save your lunch money. In most average camping conditions, the Skottle’s wide cooking surface and solid burner setup hold up just fine.

That said, if you’re prone to seeking out campsites with “wind advisory” in the forecast or you’re determined to cook up breakfast in the middle of a small hurricane, a wind shield isn’t a bad idea. It’ll make life easier and keep the heat focused where you want it—on your bacon, not blowing away with the breeze. For the rest of us fair-weather folks, you can skip it and use the space in your gear bag for something more fun—like marshmallows or that extra-spicy hot sauce.

About the Skottle

The Skottle’s carry bag is constructed of a ‘tough as nails’ vinyl made by Blue Ridge Overland Gear; another company with a tremendous reputation for quality. Combine them with Tembo Tusk, and you find a collaboration that lives up to a gold standard of American badassery. This package may not be light weight, it may take up a little space (this isn’t for backpacking, folks), but to wear these products out?? That just simply is not a thing.

When I said that we “borrowed” this Skottle from Jerry, I meant just that… I’m supposed to return it after 3 months unless I want to buy it. Well, there’s pretty much no way he’ll ever see this one again. I have removed all other pots, pans, and even my traditional grill from our kit with every intention of using the Skottle solely for ALL of our cooking needs from here on out.

Now that the commercial break is over, it is time to cook some serious butter burgers on our harrow disc… Right? Right.

Burger Pro

Being a burger addict, I mean connoisseur, my wife and I have tried probably 20 different burger recipes. All of them had their merits, and we quickly devoured them whether they included 3 ingredients, or 20. My wife found the following recipe online from someone who apparently knew the secret to killer butter burgers. These are my absolute favorite, and as it turns out… they are also the easiest ones to make. Before you go on and on about how awesome your burgers are, let it be known; I will bring the Pepsi/Coke Challenge to anyone, anywhere, any time. You want to go right now? I could eat…

BBB– Badass Butter Burgers:

Pay close attention, this gets complicated!

What you will need: Skottle Grill or flat griddle, a cast-iron grill press and a spatula (we like the wood ones, NO METAL).

1. Take one pound of 80/20 hamburger meat (leaner meat will not hold together well or be as good… this is not a recipe for your weight loss plan) and create four equal balls of meat. If you have like 40 kids or something, modify to be about 1/4 pound each.

2. Heat the Skottle until it is very warm, drop a dollop of butter then place a ball of meat directly onto the butter, then smash it with the grill press. Be sure to smash it good so it is not too thick, remove the smasher and salt and pepper the meat, now don’t touch it!!

Once the burger is ready on one side (don’t flip it until you see that it is starting to get a nice crisp look… you want it fully cooked on that side) flip the burger then top with cheese. A cheese that will melt fairly quickly is best (cheddar, Swiss, Velveeta, American for example). Meanwhile, place the buns out on the edges of the Skottle to warm them (no need to butter them). Once the cheese melts, remove the burgers, add your toppings and enjoy.

Seems too easy to be true awesomeness right? You’re welcome.

Editor’s Note: A version of this story previously appeared on treademagazine.com in March 2018.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What type of fuel does the GSI Glacier Camp Stove use?

The GSI Glacier Camp Stove is designed to operate with isobutane/propane fuel canisters. These canisters are widely available and are commonly used in many portable stoves for camping and backpacking. Just note that the fuel canister itself is not included with the stove, so you’ll need to purchase it separately.

Key Fuel Features:

Isobutane/Propane Mix: This blend ensures a consistent and high-performance flame.
Portable Canisters: Ideal for outdoor adventures due to their compact and lightweight design.

Remember to always handle and store your fuel canisters carefully to ensure safety during your outdoor activities.

What other products might be of interest to someone considering the Adventure Skottle Grill?

Similar Products You Might Like

If you’re eyeing the Adventure Skottle Grill, you might find these items interesting too:

On Sale: Portable Fire Pit

Price: $299.99
Perfect for campfires, the portable fire pit is a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast. It’s compact, durable, and ensures you can enjoy a warm fire anywhere.

On Sale: Multi-Tool Kit

Price: $89.99
A reliable companion for any adventure, this multi-tool kit includes essentials like a knife, screwdriver, and bottle opener, all in one convenient package.

Lithium Power Station

Price: $499.00 $399.00
Keep your devices charged while on the go with this versatile lithium power station. Its fast charging capability and multiple ports make it ideal for camping trips.

On Sale: Waterproof Solar Charger

Price: $45.95
Harness the power of the sun with this waterproof solar charger. It’s perfect for keeping your gadgets powered up in any weather condition.

Adventure Cooking Set

Price: $125.00
Complete your outdoor cooking setup with this all-inclusive set. It includes pots, pans, and utensils, designed to make your meals in the wild as enjoyable as at home.

These products ensure you’re prepared for all aspects of your camping adventure, enhancing your experience with convenience and versatility.

What items are included in the Adventure Skottle Grill kit?

The Adventure Skottle Grill kit is a complete package designed for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. Here’s what you’ll find inside:

Carbon Steel Skottle Disk: This durable, pre-seasoned cooking surface is perfect for preparing a variety of meals.
Black Aluminum Legs: These detachable legs provide stability and are easy to set up and pack away.
High-Powered Camp Stove: A 10,000 BTU stove ensures you have enough heat to cook anything, anywhere.
Stove Adapter: This essential piece connects your stove to the Skottle for seamless cooking.
Convenient Carry Bag: A rugged bag with loop Velcro and a MOLLE panel, making it easy to transport and store your kit.

With these items, your outdoor culinary adventures are bound to be a success.

Does the Adventure Skottle Grill come with a warranty?

Warranty Information for the Adventure Skottle Grill

When you invest in the Adventure Skottle Grill, you can grill with confidence, knowing that your purchase is protected. Each grill comes with a comprehensive 1-year warranty. This warranty ensures that in case of any defects or issues, you’ll be covered for a full year from the date of purchase.

Key Points:

Coverage Period: 1 Year from the date of purchase
What’s Included: Protection against manufacturing defects and issues

This warranty gives you peace of mind, allowing you to focus on enjoying your outdoor adventures without worrying about your equipment.

Does the Adventure Skottle Grill kit include a gas canister?

No, the Adventure Skottle Grill kit does not come with a gas canister. You will need to purchase an isobutane or propane fuel canister separately. This allows you to choose the fuel option that best suits your needs.

What is the weight of the Adventure Skottle Grill and its carry bag?

The Adventure Skottle Grill, along with its detachable legs, weighs in at 2 pounds 11 ounces. The accompanying carry bag adds an additional 13 ounces to the total. Together, these components ensure portability without compromising on durability.

Are there any promotional discounts available for the Adventure Skottle Grill?

Unfortunately, the Adventure Skottle Grill is not eligible for any promotional discounts at this time. Certain high-demand items like this one are often excluded from discount offers.

While promotional discounts aren’t available for this grill, take a look at our other products that might be included in current sales.

Consider subscribing to our newsletter for updates on exclusive deals and future promotions.

Remember, investing in the Adventure Skottle Grill ensures you’re getting a quality product designed for durability and performance.

Is the Adventure Skottle Grill currently in stock?

Adventure Skottle Grill Availability

Looking to get your hands on the Adventure Skottle Grill? This highly sought-after outdoor cooking essential is currently out of stock. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!

Here’s what you can do:

Sign Up for Notifications: Enter your email to receive a notification as soon as it’s back in stock.
Check Alternatives: While you wait, explore other top-notch outdoor grills from trusted brands like Camp Chef and Coleman.
Stay Updated: Follow our social media channels for real-time updates on restocks and new arrivals.

Get ready to elevate your outdoor cooking experience as soon as the Adventure Skottle Grill is available again!

Is the Adventure Skottle Grill eligible for free shipping?

Shipping Eligibility for the Adventure Skottle Grill

If you’re considering the Adventure Skottle Grill, it’s important to know about its shipping policies. This high-end grilling item does not qualify for free shipping.

To ensure you have the best possible experience, budget for shipping costs when purchasing this premium grill. This way, you’ll avoid any surprises at checkout. For further clarification, always double-check the shipping details provided on the product page.

Where is the Adventure Skottle Grill drop-shipped from?

Shipping Details for the Adventure Skottle Grill

The Adventure Skottle Grill is shipped directly from the manufacturer’s facility. This means that once you place your order, the product is dispatched from where it is assembled and packaged by the producer.

By shipping straight from the manufacturer, we aim to get your grill to you more efficiently and ensure that you’re receiving a brand-new, carefully handled product.

What is the price of the Adventure Skottle Grill: Overland Bound Edition?

The Adventure Skottle Grill: Overland Bound Edition is priced at $325.00.

Key Features:

Durability: Built to withstand rugged outdoor conditions.
Portability: Easy to transport, making it perfect for any adventure.
Versatility: Suitable for various cooking styles and methods.

For those who love venturing into the wild and need reliable gear, this investment ensures you’re always prepared for a delicious meal in the great outdoors!

What are the main features of the Adventure Skottle Grill?

About the Skottle

“The Skottle’s carry bag is constructed of a ‘tough as nails’ vinyl made by Blue Ridge Overland Gear; another company with a tremendous reputation for quality. Combine them with Tembo Tusk, and you find a collaboration that lives up to a gold standard of American badassery. This package may not be lightweight, it may take up a little space (this isn’t for backpacking, folks), but to wear these products out?? That just simply is not a thing.”

However, let’s dive deeper into what makes the Adventure Skottle Grill an essential piece of gear for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.

Versatility and Portability

All the cooking versatility of a skottle grill in a small and powerful package! This highly portable and packable kit makes set up, cook time, and clean up in the outdoors a breeze. If space is an issue, the Adventure Skottle Grill is the solution.

Powerful Heating

GSI Glacier Camp Stove: The skottle is powered by a GSI Glacier Camp Stove that provides 10,000 BTUs of heat with simmer control, ensuring you can cook everything from a quick boil to a slow simmer.
Fuel Type: This isobutane/propane fuel canister stove is secured by an adapter designed by the team. (Gas canister not included.)

Comprehensive Kit

The Adventure Skottle Grill kit contains everything you need to get cooking:

Pre-seasoned Skottle Harrow Disk: Made of durable carbon steel, ready for immediate use.
Detachable Aluminum Legs: Easily removable and stored, painted in a sleek black finish.
GSI Glacier Camp 10,000 BTU Stove: Reliable and powerful, perfect for various cooking needs.
GSI Stove Adapter: Ensures a secure and stable connection between the stove and Skottle.
Carry Bag: Overland Bound black carry bag featuring loop velcro and molle panel for easy attachment and transport.

Specs at a Glance

Size: Pan 12″, Legs 12.5”
Weight: Skottle & Legs 2lbs 11oz, Carry Bag 13 oz

By combining the rugged durability of the carry bag with the comprehensive and powerful cooking capabilities of the Adventure Skottle Grill, you’re truly equipped for any outdoor culinary adventure. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a seasoned overlander, this kit stands up to the challenge, ensuring you can cook with confidence and ease in the great outdoors.

What kind of stove powers the Adventure Skottle Grill?

“The Coleman single-burner stove can be left attached to the grill’s cradle underneath for an even more convenient, and quick setup. Powered by a GSI Glacier Camp Stove, this setup offers an impressive 10,000 BTUs of heat and features simmer control for precise cooking. The Glacier Camp Stove operates using an isobutane/propane fuel canister (please note, gas canister not included), and is securely fastened by an adapter designed for optimal stability. This combination ensures you have a reliable and efficient cooking experience whether you’re at a campsite or on an overlanding adventure.”

What are the specifications of the Adventure Skottle Grill’s pan and legs?

About the Skottle

Specifications

Size: Pan 12″, Legs 12.5″
Weight: Skottle & Legs 2 lbs 11 oz, Carry Bag 13 oz

Skottle Grill Recipe Resources

Wondering where to find inspiration for your next Skottle meal? You’re covered—there’s a Skottle Field Guide available, packed with innovative, trail-tested recipes designed specifically for your grill. You can download a digital copy or opt for a printed version to stash in your camp kitchen.

And if you’re the creative type, many outdoor cooks love contributing their favorite recipes. If you’ve discovered a winning combination on your Skottle, consider sharing your culinary adventures for future editions—your next great recipe might just inspire the community’s next big hit.

By merging the rugged quality of Blue Ridge Overland Gear with the innovation of Tembo Tusk, this Skottle is built to last, offering the perfect balance of durability and convenience. While the compact size and weight might not be ideal for backpacking, the Skottle is perfect for any other outdoor adventure.

The measurements and weights provided ensure that you know exactly what you’re getting—robust, reliable gear that performs exceptionally well in the field.

In summary, the Skottle offers a seamless blend of quality, durability, and ease of use, making it an indispensable part of your outdoor cooking arsenal.