it takes some getting used to on how the fuel/cooking system in AoM works

For smelting I almost can accept it, though it still feels a bit odd how ungenerous the fuel is compared to hand-mining stone and unlimited durability (normal) tools. Making charcoal is worse, the firepit has no in/out label like others so I can only assume I hit some hidden inventory input cap and wasted a bunch of wood. Either that, or making charcoal that way is only a side-effect?

I'm always running out of coal/torches, even got to the point of making lanterns but I don't think they cover much more area. The worn lantern is neat, but doesn't last that long for what it does.

Also it's weird to have at least 3 different ways to cook things and then still making soup just by crafting it.