STOV Portable Gas BBQ review: Compact power for outdoor cooking

When it comes to outdoor cooking, especially in Australia’s rugged terrains, having a reliable, portable and efficient barbecue is essential.

Enter the STOV Portable Gas BBQ – a game-changing flatpack barbecue for campers, overlanders and 4×4 enthusiasts seeking a compact yet powerful cooking solution. STOV founder Freddy von Oldershausen is a self-confessed fly-fisherman who set out to create a compact and lightweight barbecue on which he could grill his catch. He contacted me to tell me about his unique Portable Gas BBQ and now, having tested it for the past 12 months, this is what I think of it.

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First impressions

The sleek design and lightweight nature of this barbecue immediately stand out. Weighing just 3.6kg and packing down to a mere 470mm x 290mm x 40mm, it’s evident that this barbecue is designed with true portability in mind. The brushed 304 stainless steel construction gives it a modern aesthetic and promises durability against the elements.

Design and construction

The Portable Gas BBQ’s flatpack design is its most distinguishing feature. Unlike traditional bulky barbecues, this unit disassembles into seven stainless steel plates, allowing for easy storage in the back of your vehicle. Assembly is straightforward, requiring no tools, and can be completed in under a minute. A heavy-duty carry bag is included, which doubles as a grilling mat, showcasing the thoughtful design that caters to the needs of adventurers.

The grill grate measures 315mm x 210mm, offering 660cm² of cooking space, which is ample room to cook a deboned lamb leg, a couple of steaks and vegetables, or bacon and eggs (with the eggs cooked in a small pan heated on the grill plate). 

High-quality materials ensure even heat distribution and resistance to corrosion, making it ideally suited to Australia’s diverse climates. With a five-year warranty on the grill and body, you can be confident that the STOV Portable Gas BBQ will last.

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Performance and versatility

Despite its compact size, the Portable Gas BBQ doesn’t compromise on performance. It delivers 2.4kW of power, equivalent to about 8000 BTU, ensuring quick heat-up times and efficient cooking. A standard 460g EN417 propane gas cartridge provides approximately 200 minutes of grilling time, making it ideal for weekend trips without the need for frequent refuelling.

What sets the STOV design apart is its dual-fuel capability. While it primarily operates on gas, an optional charcoal tray accessory allows users to switch to charcoal or even small wood pieces, offering that authentic smoky flavour when desired. This flexibility is rare among portable barbecues and caters to varying cooking preferences.

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Ease of use and maintenance

Setting up the Portable Gas BBQ is a breeze. The interlocking design ensures stability during use, and the absence of complex parts means fewer things can go wrong in the field. Lighting the barbecue is straightforward, and the heat control allows for precise cooking.

Cleaning is equally hassle-free. The stainless-steel components can be easily wiped down and, for a more thorough clean, the parts (excluding the wooden handle) are dishwasher safe. For those looking to minimise cleanup, lining the base with foil can effectively catch grease and drippings. 

I’ve found that once the barbecue has cooled down, a good scrub with a scourer in hot, soapy water gets rid of the grease and most of the stubborn stains, while something like a Matador QCT Steel Pad Head removes the toughest of cooking stains.

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Real-world application

During the time I’ve used this product, the STOV Portable Gas BBQ has proven its worth. Whether it’s a carpark lunch at an event or a relaxed evening cookout on the Murray River, the rapid set up and efficient cooking make it a reliable companion. The compact design means it occupies minimal space in my 4×4, leaving room for other essential gear.

Moreover, its design ensures compliance with fire regulations in many areas. While it is always essential to check local guidelines, the STOV’s gas operation often allows for use during fire bans, providing peace of mind for responsible campers.

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Freddy also sent me the STOV Charcoal Tray ($59) to play with, and while I’ve only used it once, the barbecue and the charcoal tray survived temperatures above the recommended 320°C – and the steaks were delicious with the added smoky flavour from the charcoal. 

The STOV Windshield ($45) is a valuable addition that effectively blocks wind, helps maintain consistent cooking temperatures and is easy to clean, as fat splatters can be quickly wiped away. Additionally, the windshield packs flat, fitting conveniently into the Portable Gas BBQ carry bag.

Verdict

The STOV Portable Gas BBQ is a testament to innovative design meeting practical functionality. Its portability, performance and versatility make it an invaluable asset for any adventurer. Whether exploring the outback, setting up camp by the coast, or enjoying a picnic beside a river, this compact barbecue ensures you don’t have to compromise on quality meals.

RRP: $299