Camping Cuisine: Elevate Your Outdoor Meals with These Expert Tips
Summertime camping conjures up images of classic favorites like hot dogs, marshmallows, and s’mores, but why not take your outdoor dining experience up a notch? It’s possible to create delicious, gourmet meals while camping that are easy to prepare, lightweight, and non-perishable, without the need for excessive gear.
Estelle Blanchette, a passionate hiker and the brains behind Jasper Food Tours, found her inspiration for upgrading camping meals during a challenging 23-kilometer hike in British Columbia. Struggling with traditional camping fare, she discovered the wonders of dehydrated ingredients like lentils and oatmeal used by fellow hikers. This experience prompted her to develop lighter meal options, leading to her upcoming cookbook of innovative recipes.
Similarly, Chris Nuttall-Smith, the author of “Cook It Wild: Sensational Prep-Ahead Meals for Camping, Cabins, and the Great Outdoors,” revamped his camping menu after realizing the limitations of pre-packaged outdoor meals. Today, he whips up gourmet dishes such as Dan Dan noodles and shrimp burgers, prepared in advance and cooked quickly at the campsite.
To create mouthwatering camping meals, consider the following expert tips from Nuttall-Smith and Blanchette:
**Planning and Prep**
– Tailor your meals’ longevity to your camping environment, whether it’s a fridge-equipped RV or a multi-day hiking trip.
– Choose between elaborate dishes or simpler options based on your preferences and available resources.
**Meal Planning and Food Shopping**
– Explore non-perishable options like various cheeses and dehydrated foods that can withstand the wilderness.
– Avoid store-bought camping meals and opt for homemade prepped ingredients for superior taste.
**Packing Smart**
– Use resealable bags for efficient storage, especially for backpackers aiming to reduce bulk and weight.
– Strategically pack your meals, with longer-lasting items at the bottom and easy-access foods on top for convenience.
**Techniques and Tools**
– Utilize campfire grills for cooking staples like steaks, salmon, and veggies, or opt for portable stoves for quick and adjustable heat.
– Select non-stick cookware and lightweight utensils for easy cleanup and convenient packing.
**Meal Ideas**
– Enjoy gourmet breakfasts with dishes like crepes Suzette or corn, cheddar, and green onion skillet cakes.
– Indulge in light lunches such as quick soups or “bikini” sandwiches for a satisfying midday meal.
– For snacks, pack trail mix or dehydrated hummus for a nutritious and easy-to-carry option.
– Elevate dinner with dishes like no-yeast naan bread and red lentil dahl or squid and shrimp paella for a taste of luxury in the great outdoors.
**Tips for Cleanup**
– Leave no trace by cleaning up responsibly with biodegradable soap and proper disposal methods.
– Avoid harmful chemicals like bleach and ensure your campsite remains pristine throughout your stay.
Enhance your camping experience with these expert meal preparation tips, and savor gourmet dishes amidst nature’s beauty.