Before they started to test solar cookers, America's Test Kitchen-ers were skeptical—could anything simply left in a pot or box to cook in the sun actually taste good? Solar cookers don't require any fuel, they don't create smoke pollution, and they use minimal water; all factors that make them attractive for use in developing regions around the world. In the U.S., sales are geared to several audiences: those who advocate environmentally sound practices, people in sunny climates who want a fuel-efficient way to cook that doesn't heat up the kitchen, outdoor enthusiasts who like their portability, and food hobbyists who enjoy experimental cooking. Do they work? Yes, America's Test Kitchen had good results with some (but not all) of the recipes they tested. One big caveat: You need a lot of sun to make dinner in a solar cooker.

Watch the video above for more about their picks or read the full comparison on America's Test Kitchen (free registration required) »