Cooking over a campfire is one of the best parts of camping. The smell of food mixed with wood smoke, the sound of crackling flames, and the taste of meals cooked outdoors make camping special. But what should you cook over a campfire? This guide will help you choose the right foods and methods.
You don’t need fancy equipment to cook over a fire. With some basic tools and the right ingredients, you can make delicious meals. Let’s explore the best foods for campfire cooking.
Essential Tools for Campfire Cooking
Before we talk about food, you need the right tools. Here are the basics:
- Cast iron skillet: Heavy but perfect for even heat
- Dutch oven: Great for stews and baking
- Grill grate: Place over flames for grilling
- Long-handled tongs: Keep your hands safe
- Heat-proof gloves: Protect yourself from burns
- Aluminum foil: Useful for wrapping food
With these tools, you can cook almost anything over a campfire.
Best Meats for Campfire Cooking
Steaks and Burgers
Nothing beats a steak cooked over an open flame. The high heat gives meat a delicious crust. Choose thicker cuts like ribeye or sirloin. For burgers, make patties about 1 inch thick. Cook them directly on a grill grate over hot coals.
Chicken
Chicken takes longer to cook than beef. Use boneless thighs – they stay juicy and cook faster than breasts. Marinate chicken before cooking for extra flavor. Always check that chicken is fully cooked (no pink inside).
Sausages and Hot Dogs
These are campfire classics. They cook quickly and are hard to mess up. Pierce sausages with a fork before cooking to prevent bursting. Rotate them often for even cooking.
Fish
Whole fish or fillets cook well in foil packets. Add lemon slices and herbs inside the foil. Salmon and trout work particularly well. Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes per inch of thickness.
Vegetables Perfect for Campfire Cooking
Potatoes
Potatoes are a camping staple. You can bake them in foil, fry them in a skillet, or make hash browns. Cut into small pieces for faster cooking. Add onions and peppers for flavor.
Corn on the Cob
Leave the husks on and soak corn in water for 30 minutes before cooking. Place directly on hot coals for about 15 minutes, turning occasionally. The husks will char but protect the corn inside.
Bell Peppers
Cut peppers in half and remove seeds. Fill with cheese or other vegetables and wrap in foil. Cook until peppers are soft, about 10-15 minutes.
Onions
Whole onions bake beautifully in foil. Peel and wrap with a bit of butter. They’ll become sweet and tender after about 30 minutes in the coals.
Campfire Breads and Doughs
Foil-Wrapped Garlic Bread
Spread butter and garlic on bread, wrap in foil, and warm near the fire. The bread gets crispy outside and stays soft inside.
Damper Bread
This simple bread is made with flour, water, and salt. Wrap dough around a stick and hold over the fire until cooked through. It’s fun to make and delicious with jam.
Bannock
Similar to damper but cooked in a skillet. Add raisins or cheese for variety. Cook until golden brown on both sides.
One-Pot Meals for Campfires
Stews and Chili
A Dutch oven is perfect for these. Brown meat first, then add vegetables and liquid. Simmer for an hour or more, stirring occasionally. The long cooking time develops deep flavors.
Jambalaya
This rice dish cooks well over a campfire. Use pre-cooked rice to save time. Add sausage, chicken, shrimp, and vegetables for a complete meal.
Pasta Dishes
Cook pasta in boiling water, then drain and add sauce. One-pot pasta meals where everything cooks together are especially convenient.
Sweet Treats for Campfire Cooking
S’mores
The classic campfire dessert. Sandwich melted chocolate and toasted marshmallows between graham crackers. Try different chocolate types for variety.
Baked Apples
Core apples and fill with brown sugar and cinnamon. Wrap in foil and cook until soft, about 20 minutes.
Campfire Cones
Fill waffle cones with chocolate chips and marshmallows. Wrap in foil and warm until contents melt. Add fruit or nuts if desired.
Banana Boats
Slice bananas lengthwise (keep peel on). Stuff with chocolate and marshmallows. Wrap in foil and cook until everything melts.
Tips for Better Campfire Cooking
- Let the fire burn down to coals for more even heat
- Use a tripod for hanging pots over the fire
- Bring pre-chopped ingredients to save time
- Pack spices in small containers
- Control heat by moving food closer or further from flames
- Clean tools immediately after use while still warm
- Store food properly to keep animals away
Safety Considerations
Always practice fire safety when cooking outdoors:
- Keep a bucket of water or sand nearby
- Never leave a fire unattended
- Cook in a cleared area away from tents
- Make sure the fire is completely out before leaving
- Check local fire regulations before your trip
Conclusion
Campfire cooking can be as simple or complex as you want. Start with easy foods like hot dogs and baked potatoes. As you gain confidence, try more challenging recipes. The key is to prepare properly and enjoy the process.
Remember, food always tastes better when cooked outdoors. The fresh air, beautiful surroundings, and company of friends make campfire meals special. So gather your ingredients, build your fire, and start cooking!
Related topics:
Best Camp Oven: A Guide for Outdoor Cooking Enthusiasts
What You Need for First-Time Camping
What Basics Do You Need for Camping?