Sometimes it’s hard for me to separate my love of food from the activities surrounding it. For example, I don’t really like parties, but I can be convinced otherwise if said party has an excellent snack selection.
I had to scrutinize camping the same way. Did I really enjoy sleeping in a tent on the hard ground and going days without a shower so I could get sweaty while walking past a million identical trees? Or was I just into camping because of the food that comes with it?
I do think my love of camping stands on its own, however campfire food enhances it greatly. There’s something about how the campfire adds a smoky richness to dishes I’ve made a thousand times that makes me crave campfire food like no other.
And let’s not forget what a day of fresh air and hiking does to one’s appetite. Despite writing a novel about a thru-hiker, I’ve never been interested in the endeavor myself. Because in my opinion, one of the best parts of hiking is fantasizing about the fantastic dinner I plan to prepare as soon as we drag our exhausted bodies back to the campground. Dehydrated meals and beef jerky just don’t cut it for me. There are many parts of the thru-hiking process I admire, but a thru-hiker’s ability to sacrifice food quality and taste to be out on the trail is truly remarkable. I just don’t think I’m up to the challenge.
So instead of seeing the campfire as a hurdle to our nightly meals, I’ve learned to look at it as a creative outlet. How does one get the temperature just right in the cast iron skillet over open flames? How much smoky flavor is just enough? What prep work can be done ahead of time so the cooking experience is actually enjoyable? These are equations I’m more than willing to solve through trail and error-camping trip after camping trip-because when the desired results are finally reached, all is right with the world (and our bellies).
So I encourage you not to shy away from the campfire next time you venture out into the great outdoors (I mean, don’t get too close or anything. It is fire, after all). Campfire hot dogs are great for sure, but don’t limit yourself! Be bold and think delicious thoughts. It’s truly one of the best parts of camping.
Here are a few articles to get you started. Happy cooking!
One Comment
I’m with you, it’s all about the food, and now I want to go camping (actually glamping!). Yummy ideas!
Comments are closed.