The Ultimate Guide to Campfire Cooking 

The Ultimate Guide to Campfire Cooking 

Posted on June 29, 2024

There's something mesmerizing about the gentle crackle of a campfire, the flames flickering under a canopy of stars in the vast Canadian wilderness. It's here, around this ancient gathering spot, that you'll find the heart of camping - the campfire kitchen. With the arrival of June's sunny days and clear nights, the conditions are perfect for you to become the chef of the outdoors.

Campfire cooking is an art that goes beyond mere sustenance; it's a way to connect with nature, with family and friends, and with the age-old tradition of sharing a meal prepared in the open air. So pull up a log, stoke the fire, and let's get ready to turn up the heat on your next camping adventure.

Choosing the Right Equipment

Before you can showcase your culinary skills over an open flame, you need the right tools for the job.

The cornerstone of any campfire cooking setup is durable, versatile cookware that can stand up to the heat. Cast iron skillets are a favourite among campfire cooks for their even heating and resilience. Griddles and Dutch ovens expand your menu possibilities, allowing you to fry, bake, and stew.

When choosing equipment, think about the types of meals you plan to cook and the number of people you'll be feeding. A large pot is essential for boiling water or cooking stews for a group, while a portable grate placed over the fire can turn your campfire into a grill for cooking anything from fresh fish to steaks.

And don't forget utensils like tongs, a spatula, and a sturdy pot holder. Opt for tools with long handles to keep your hands safe from the flames. Remember, the right equipment is not just about convenience; it's about creating delicious meals that will become part of your cherished camping memories.

Building the Perfect Campfire

The secret to successful campfire cooking lies in building a fire that's not just warm, but also suitable for cooking.

To start, select a spot that's downwind from your RV and seating area to avoid smoke blowing in unwelcome directions. Clear any debris and encircle your pit with rocks if it's not already established. In Canadian campgrounds, always adhere to the provided fire pits and local regulations—conservation is key.

You'll need three types of wood: tinder, kindling, and fuel wood. Tinder, like dry leaves or small twigs, will catch fire easily, kindling will sustain the flame, and fuel wood keeps the fire going. Building your fire in a "tepee" or "log cabin" style ensures good airflow, which is essential for a steady flame.

Once your fire is lit, let it burn down to a bed of coals. This provides even heat for cooking without the flames that can char your food unexpectedly. Patience is part of the process and safety is paramount. Keep water or a fire extinguisher nearby just in case, and never leave your fire unattended. With a perfect campfire, you're well on your way to a feast under the stars.

Best Campfire Recipes

The beauty of campfire cooking is found in the simplicity and heartiness of the meals. Canadian summer brings a bounty of fresh ingredients that can transform your campfire dining experience.

Start your day with a classic: campfire pancakes. Mix up your favourite batter, pour it onto a hot cast iron griddle, and watch as they puff up golden brown. Drizzle with maple syrup for a true northern breakfast.

For lunch, nothing beats the taste of flame-grilled burgers. Hand-form patties from high-quality ground beef or try a wild game meat for a twist. Serve on toasted buns with slices of sharp cheddar and a heap of caramelized onions. Complete the meal with fire-roasted corn on the cob, seasoned with butter and herbs.

As the sun dips below the horizon, dinner calls for something special. Consider foil packet meals — a no-fuss method where you can cook an entire meal in a single parcel. Try fresh local trout seasoned with lemon and dill, wrapped in foil, and cooked directly on the coals. Or go for a hearty stew, simmering in a Dutch oven, filled with root vegetables and tender chunks of bison or beef.

For dessert, reinvent the classic s'mores by swapping milk chocolate for some gourmet dark chocolate and using homemade cookies instead of graham crackers. Or, embrace the seasonal fruits and make a berry cobbler in a Dutch oven — it's sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Safety Tips for Cooking Over an Open Fire

While cooking over an open fire is part of the classic camping experience, it's essential to prioritize safety.

Never leave your fire unattended and ensure that children and pets are always supervised when near the fire. Keep a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher handy in case you need to douse the flames quickly.

Food safety is just as important as fire safety.

Keep raw and cooked foods separate, and use a food thermometer to ensure meats are cooked to the appropriate temperatures to avoid foodborne illnesses. Store perishables in a cooler with plenty of ice or ice packs, and keep the cooler in a shaded area to maintain temperature.

Be mindful of attracting wildlife to your campsite. In many parts of Canada, wildlife is abundant, and the scent of cooking can draw curious creatures. Avoid leaving food out unattended and secure your food supplies in a bear-proof container or your RV. Dispose of food scraps and grease properly, using designated waste containers when available, or take it with you when you leave.

By following these safety tips, you'll ensure that your campfire cooking adventures are not only memorable but also incident-free, allowing you to fully enjoy the wilderness and your time under the stars.

Cooking for Kids While Camping

Cooking over a campfire is a fantastic way to engage kids with nature and instill in them a love for the outdoors. When camping with little ones, consider recipes that are both enjoyable to make and eat.

Kebabs, for example, are great for getting kids involved. Let them skewer their choice of chopped meats and veggies, which they can then proudly cook over the fire (with adult supervision, of course).

Grilled cheese sandwiches are another easy and beloved option. Have the kids help butter the bread and choose their fillings before toasting the sandwiches on a griddle over the campfire. For a unique twist, try using different types of bread and cheese, or add in some ham or turkey for added protein.

Don't forget to include some fun treats too. 'Banana boats' are a gooey, delicious dessert that kids can personalize. Simply slice a banana (skin on) down the middle, stuff it with chocolate chips and mini marshmallows, wrap it in foil, and let it warm up in the coals. It's a simple, interactive dish that provides a fun conclusion to any meal.

Incorporating educational aspects can also be beneficial. Use the cooking experience to teach kids about food safety, such as the importance of washing hands before handling ingredients, and fire safety. These lessons are vital and can be taught in an engaging and memorable way alongside the joy of making a meal.

Vegan and Vegetarian Campfire Options

Embracing plant-based campfire cooking can be both a delicious and environmentally friendly choice. Vegan and vegetarian options are plentiful and can be just as satisfying as their meaty counterparts when cooked over an open flame.

Begin with a hearty chili, full of beans, lentils, and a variety of vegetables — it's easy to make in one pot over the fire and is sure to warm everyone up on a cool evening.

For something a bit lighter, try grilling up some veggie burgers. Many store-bought options grill well, but you can also make your own patties before you head out on your camping trip. Serve them on a toasted bun with all your favourite fixings for a classic campfire meal. Grilled portobello mushrooms, marinated in balsamic and herbs, can also make for a flavorful, meaty alternative.

Don't forget about the sides. Foil packets filled with mixed veggies, a dash of olive oil, and your favourite seasonings can cook alongside your main dish and make for a fuss-free side that's packed with flavour. Even a simple skewer of marinated tofu and vegetables can become a smoky, charred delight when cooked over the coals.

These plant-based meals can be surprising and delightful, proving that campfire cooking doesn't have to be centred around meat to be considered authentic. With a little planning and the right ingredients, vegan and vegetarian dishes can become a staple of your camping cuisine.

Cleaning Up and Leaving No Trace

Once the embers have cooled and the last bite has been savoured, the responsibility of leaving the campsite as pristine as it was upon your arrival begins.

Cleaning up after campfire cooking is an essential, albeit less glamorous, part of the experience. Start by ensuring all coals and embers are completely extinguished. Stir the ashes and sprinkle water until you're certain there's no residual heat.

For cookware, if water resources are plentiful and you're equipped with biodegradable soap, you can wash your dishes and pots at the campsite. However, remember to use a wash basin and dispose of the greywater by scattering it well away from streams or lakes to minimize the impact on the ecosystem. For sites with limited water, wipe down your cookware with paper towels to remove excess food, and give them a thorough clean once you have access to adequate facilities.

Garbage and food waste should be packed up and removed from the site. Utilize bear-proof bins if they are provided, or secure your waste in your RV until it can be disposed of properly. Leaving food scraps not only attracts wildlife, which can be dangerous for the next campers, but it also disrupts the natural feeding patterns of animals.

Remember the "Leave No Trace" principles — they are not just guidelines but a commitment to preserving the natural beauty and integrity of the great outdoors. By following these practices, you ensure that the Canadian wilderness can be enjoyed by future generations of campers and wildlife alike.

Savoring the Campfire Culinary Experience

As the campfire dims and the stars begin their nightly show, take a moment to cherish the campfire culinary experiences you've enjoyed. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice to the flame, cooking over a campfire can offer a sense of satisfaction and simplicity that is unparalleled. The aroma of a simmering stew or the sizzle of a fresh catch over an open flame can turn a simple meal into an unforgettable event.

This guide aims to inspire you to embrace campfire cooking, to try those recipes you've bookmarked, and to share the joy of a well-cooked meal with your companions. It's a way to enhance your camping experience, to engage with the environment responsibly, and to create heartwarming memories that linger long after the fire's glow has faded.

And as you plan your next escape into the vast Canadian wilderness, know that Roulottes Desjardins is there to support your journey.

With our array of RVs that become homes away from home, you're never far from your next delicious campfire feast. So here's to the meals you'll make and the adventures you'll take — may they be as enriching as the landscapes you explore.