The Karma Canvas Nomad Stove range is a game-changer for outdoor cooking, combining cutting-edge technology with rugged durability to offer you a reliable cooking experience wherever your adventures take you. After two years of careful design and over two decades of expertise, our stoves are perfect for both seasoned adventurers and casual campers. If you're looking to elevate your outdoor meals, our range of stoves are the ultimate companion.
Here's everything you need to know about cooking on our versatile stoves.
It’s important to note that we currently offer two stove models which have been designed for slightly different use cases, catering for the two main types of customer we have. Whilst the stoves have been thoughtfully designed, it’s also possible to just pick the one you like the look of the best, you really can’t go wrong!
Our Stoves
The two models we offer are:
The Vista PRO is a retro, heavier style of stove which may suit the more traditional wanderer. It has a single large window at the front and a sliding air regulator. It is made from 4mm thick mild steel, which has been treated with a heat-resistant black coating. It has a slightly higher firebox than the Clearview (290mm vs 265mm), but the Clearview’s is deeper (395mm vs 365mm). See the full dimensions for both stoves by following the links above. The Vista is also significantly heavier than the Clearview and thus less suitable for lightweight camping setups. It has a traditional style ash pan underneath the grate, which can be emptied just like the stove you may have in a living room.
The Clearview Lite is a more modern style of stove which incorporates some cutting-edge tech to keep weight down to just 9kg, whilst still providing the same heat output (4kw) as the Vista. The main point of difference is the stainless steel construction, which may make it more suitable for humid or wet environments, where corrosion is a concern. The Clearview also has 3 windows, one on each side and one at the front of the stove. This gives you an unparalleled view of the fire itself. It’s almost like having a floating fire inside your tent! The Clearview is much lighter weight than its sibling, and it's emptied with a lightweight scraper to keep weight down.
Why Choose a Karma Nomad Stove?
Having explored their differences, let's now discover what details these Stoves share. Following that, we'll take a moment to appreciate the features that truly make the Karma Canvas Nomad stoves stand out in the world of outdoor cooking.
1. High-quality glass
The stoves feature German-made "Schott" heatproof glass windows, allowing you to watch your food cook while enjoying the warmth of the fire. This creates a cosy, campfire atmosphere without losing heat or without cracking, ideal for outdoor cooking.
2. Upgraded Eco-Burn System
The dual Eco-Burn secondary ventilation system ensures efficient combustion, extending your fuel's lifespan and reducing emissions. This makes our stoves perfect for use in close quarters with fellow campers.
3. Durability and Portability
Despite their rugged builds, the Nomad stoves are lightweight, weighing just 12 (Vista) and 9kg (Clearview) respectively. The compact design allows for easy packing and all components, including the flue, fit neatly into a custom carry bag for stress-free transport.
4. Eco-Friendly and Efficient
Thanks to their efficient burn system, which combusts not only the solid fuel but the resulting gases, our stove range uses less fuel, making them a cleaner, more sustainable choice for your outdoor adventures. You won’t be annoying your neighbours with clouds of smoke drifting onto their site and your firewood will go much further than with other compact stoves of this type.
5. Drying / Cooking Racks
Both stoves come complete with side racks which allow you to move pots and pans off the heat whilst keeping the elevated off the floor of the tent. The racks can also be used as drying racks, great for drying socks and small items. However it's worth noting that the Clearview Lite’s racks are permanently attached to the stove and can be either folder away or used as convenient carry handles (NB always check the heat of the racks before grasping them!) whilst the Vista PRO’s racks are removable and can be stored inside the stove when not in use.
Getting Started with Your Karma Nomad Stove
Before you start cooking up your next delicious meal, ensure your stove is set up properly:
1. Pre-Burn
The Nomad Vista PRO stove has a heat resistant coating which protects the underlying steel, however until the coating is fully heat cured it needs to be treated with care. The first burn with either stove should be done in an outdoor area and not inside a tent. This will allow any oils or smells created by the manufacturing process to escape into the open air. The first 3-4 burns with the Vista PRO stove should also be done carefully. Don’t light a roaring fire straight away, as this can crack the coating on and damage the stove components. The Nomad Clearview is more forgiving in this respect, as there is no potential for damaging the coating, however care should still be taken not to get either stove too hot on the first excursion.
2. Find the right spot
When outdoors, set up your stove on a stable, flat surface in a well-ventilated area, away from anything flammable. With their 2.4-meter flue and integrated spark arrestor, the Nomad stoves ensure that stray hot embers will not drift out of the chimney whilst in use, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.
When using the stove inside a tent or other structure, it’s important to position your stove close to the doorway so that it’s easy to remove if required. If you are uiong a PRO mesh tent , this edecision is made for you as the stove exit is already cut. Our other tents enable you to choose exactly where to place the stove. Always use a Karma Canvas heat mat, flashing kit and double insulated flue. For full instructions see the help section of our website.
3. Fuel Up
For optimal performance, use kiln dried hardwood in your Nomad stove. This ensures maximum efficiency and long-lasting heat. Compact stoves are less forgiving than large stoves in terms of fuel, as they do not get as hot as a large stove, so the fuel needs to be very dry and the correct size. Logs should be cut to just smaller than the stove’s firebox, preferably before your trip, for optimal heat and less hassle.Â
4. Assemble the Stove
No complex assembly is required! Our Nomad stoves are easy to set up. Simply fit the flue sections into place securely, fold out the legs, add fuel and you're good to go.
5. Light the Fire
When lighting the fire, there are a few important steps to follow. Start by placing firelighters or paper at the base, then build a small “pyramid” on top using twigs, bark, or kindling. Add a couple of slightly larger twigs or dry branches on top of that. Light the fire in a few different spots to help it catch evenly. Keep the door open at this stage.
If you're inside a tent or enclosed space, make sure the area is well ventilated, open doors and/or windows to allow airflow. Some smoke may escape initially, but it won’t last long.
As the fire begins to heat up, you can add a little more fuel, but remember, less is more. Once it's burning steadily, close the door while leaving a small gap. Eventually, you’ll be able to shut the door completely with the regulator fully open. As the fire continues to build, you can gradually reduce the airflow by closing the regulator to about halfway or less.
Important: Never close the regulator completely, as this will extinguish the fire.
6. Get cozy!
Once the fire is humming along, you can close the doors and windows of your tent to keep the heat in and the cold out. Rug up, boil some water on your Karma water boiler and make a cuppa! Ahhhhh!
Cooking Techniques on the Karma Nomad Stove
Thanks to its robust design and versatile cooking features, the Karma Canvas Nomad stoves can handle a variety of cooking techniques. Whether you’re grilling, simmering, or baking, our stoves give you the flexibility to cook just about anything. The Nomad clearview stove is even made from food-grade stainless steel so it's even possible to cook directly on the stove, just be prepared to clean it afterwards!
1. Grilling with the Top Loader
Our Nomad stoves include a removable locking steel hotplate (also known as the top loader) that gives you direct access to the flames for grilling, or easy access for refuelling under certain circumstances.
Grill Your Favourite Meats and Veggies: Use a cast iron grill rack on legs (not included) to keep food elevated off the flames for even cooking. Sear steaks, sausages, and vegetables over the fire for a delicious char.
Adjust the Flame: Use the sliding air control regulator to fine-tune the heat, ensuring a perfect sear or slow cook.
2. Cooking One-Pot Meals
The Nomad stove’s spacious firebox is perfect for simmering hearty one-pot meals like stews, soups, or chilli.
Layer Flavours: Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and spices in a bit of oil. Then add meats, veggies, or grains, and cover with stock or water. Let the stove’s consistent heat do the rest.
Keep It Warm: Once your stew is cooked, move the pot to the side or place it on the grill rack to keep it warm without overcooking.
3. Baking with a Dutch Oven
If you’re in the mood to bake, a Dutch oven is your best friend. The Nomad stove’s top loader can easily accommodate a Dutch oven, allowing you to bake everything from bread to pies.
Heat the Oven: Preheat your Dutch oven on the stove’s hotplate for a few minutes before placing your dough or batter inside.
Add Extra Heat: To intensify the heat for baking, place hot coals on top of the Dutch oven lid to ensure even cooking.
4. Stir-Fry and Sauté
Stir-frying and sautéing are perfect for quick, tasty meals. The Vista PRO stove’s precise temperature control makes these techniques easy and effective.
Heat Your Pan: Place a skillet or wok over the stove’s hotplate and let it heat up before adding oil and ingredients.
Cook in Batches: When cooking for a crowd, sauté ingredients in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan and ensure even cooking.
Cleaning and Maintenance of your Karma Nomad Stove
Once you’ve enjoyed your outdoor feast, it’s important to clean your stove to ensure it remains in top condition for future use.
1. Cool Down First
Always let your stove cool down before cleaning.
2. Remove Ash
Use the removable ash pan to collect ash, making disposal easier.
3. Clean the Flue
After cooking, give the stove and flue a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove any soot or grease, this helps keep your stove in great condition. It’s also a good idea to invest in a flue brush (or repurpose an old dustpan brush) to scrub the inside of each flue section after use, clearing out any build-up of tar or creosote. The drier your firewood, the less buildup you'll have to deal with. If left unchecked, the flue can become clogged over time and much harder to clean.
Final Thoughts: Improve Your Outdoor Cooking with a Karma Canvas Nomad Stove
The Karma Canvas Nomad stoves are an incredibly versatile and durable cooking companion, whether you’re grilling, simmering, or baking. With features like the dual Eco-Burn system, extra-large glass window, and ample cooking space, this stove is perfect for cooking delicious meals during your outdoor adventures. Its portability, easy setup, and eco-friendly design make it the ultimate choice for camping cooking.
So, pack up your stove, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create amazing outdoor meals with a Nomad stove.
Happy cooking in the great outdoors!
Â
Â
------
A Note on Safety
Precautions:Â
Never touch the stove without a heat resistant glove or mitten.
If you are with children or pets, take common sense precautions to ensure their safety, and don’t allow them near hot parts of the stove.The flue of the stove gets especially hot and can cause severe burns if misused.
Do not leave combustible items near to the stove, and always keep a fire extinguisher to hand.Â
Never pack away when hot. Ensure all embers are extinguished before dismantling or transporting the stove.
A suitable heat mat should be used at all times. These can be purchased from our store.
The spark arrestor must be fitted at all times.
Important Carbon Monoxide Information
Once the fire is established, the vast majority of any fumes should be expelled from the flue, however when the fire is being lit or is not burning properly the tent or structure you are using the stove inside should be well ventilated, with doors and windows open.
Once the fire is fully established, you may often find that you need to open the door to release some heat anyway!
It’s strongly advisable to carry a fire extinguisher and a portable carbon monoxide alarm as part of your camping kit, for yours and your family’s peace of mind.