Camping involves not only spending time in the great outdoors, but also with family and friends. Exploring your natural surroundings should be a priority rather than devoting hours to preparing meals. Many campers enjoy cooking outdoors in a natural setting. Finding easy camping food meals to cook and serve will simplify your camping experience.
Significance
Keeping your food selections to a minimum will help you cut down on space and time, according to the Net Woods Virtual Campsite website. Prepare meats and fresh vegetables first, and then non-perishable items for the remainder of the trip. This will assure maximum freshness and reduce the risk of spoilage. Choose meats that cook easily over a slow fire, such as chicken or ribs. Allow the meat to slow cook while you complete other tasks. You also can bring meals that do not require cooking to allow for minimal preparation and quick access when your group is hungry.
Types
The GORP website suggests choosing campfire meals that are quick and easy to fix. Pancake mixes that are ready to pour, along with sliced sausage patties and bacon, make a quick breakfast that takes minutes to prepare over a hot griddle. An easy camping food is a foiled dinner--uncooked or partially cooked food wrapped in aluminum foil that you can place over hot coals for cooking. Prepare this meal in advance by slicing vegetables and adding meats and spices, so its ready for the coals. Dutch oven recipes make an easy and hearty lunch or dinner. Stew, chili and casserole are meals that you can slow-cook over a fire.
Equipment
Have a successful outdoor camp cooking experience by using the right equipment. A tripod grill has ample cooking space and an adjustable grate to control the temperature over fire or coals. This grill works well for foiled dinners or grilling. A smoker lets you place fresh fish or meats inside, and go about other activities. A rotisserie or grate allows for carefree cooking over low flames. A shepherd's hook safely holds stew and chili over a low-flame fire with minimal fuss. Pie irons help make hot pizzas, sandwiches and deserts easily--and allow everyone to create and cook his own meals.
Organization
An organized camping kitchen allows you to prepare and cook foods easier, according to the Woodall's website. Keep separate bins specified for dry spices, condiments and mixes. Have one container set up near the grill area that includes tongs, spatulas and spoons for preparing and serving food. Label prepared meals in advance to eliminate guesswork.
Time Frame
Every camp cook wants to achieve a minimal time frame on meal preparation, cooking, serving and cleanup. Less is better. Choose meals that will satisfy your group, but that you can complete quickly. Think ahead about how long it will take to put your meal together. Prepare before your trip, if possible. This allows you to participate in activities at the campsite, rather than being left behind cooking and preparing for the next meal.
Member Comments