Campfire Cooking: Beyond Hot Dogs and S'mores

Gourmet Cooking Over an Open Fire

Campfire cooking doesn't have to be limited to roasting hot dogs on sticks. With a little preparation and creativity, you can enjoy delicious meals that rival home cooking, all while enjoying the great outdoors.

Breakfast: Campfire Shakshuka

This Middle Eastern breakfast dish is perfect for camping and packs a flavorful punch to start your day.

Ingredients:

• 1 onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 4 eggs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a cast iron skillet over the campfire, sauté onions and peppers until soft.
2. Add garlic and spices, cook until fragrant.
3. Pour in tomatoes and simmer for 5-10 minutes.
4. Create wells in the sauce and crack eggs into them.
5. Cover with foil and cook until eggs are set, about 5-8 minutes.

Lunch: Foil Packet Fish Tacos

These easy foil packet meals cook quickly and cleanup is a breeze.

Ingredients:

• White fish fillets (tilapia, cod, or similar)
• Taco seasoning
• Sliced bell peppers and onions
• Corn or flour tortillas
• Lime wedges
• Toppings: avocado, cilantro, salsa

Instructions:

1. Place fish and vegetables on a large piece of heavy-duty foil.
2. Sprinkle with taco seasoning.
3. Fold foil into a sealed packet.
4. Place on grate over campfire for 8-10 minutes until fish flakes easily.
5. Serve in warmed tortillas with your favorite toppings.

Dinner: Dutch Oven Chili Mac

This one-pot comfort food is perfect after a day of hiking.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (14 oz) kidney beans, drained
• 2 cups beef broth
• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 cup shredded cheese

Instructions:

1. In a Dutch oven, brown ground beef and onions.
2. Add garlic and chili powder, cook 1 minute.
3. Add tomatoes, beans, broth, and pasta.
4. Cover and simmer until pasta is tender, about 15 minutes.
5. Top with cheese and cover until melted.

With a little planning, you can enjoy amazing meals around the campfire that will make your outdoor adventures even more memorable!