One of the best aspects of camping is cooking in the great outdoors. If you like to hunt or fish, this task can be even more exciting. However, before you become excited about the prospect of setting up a kitchen under the big blue sky, there are several things you need to consider. You must be prepared to take the correct cooking utensils with you. Without these, the only thing you may find yourself cooking are some marshmallows on a stick!
Although you can just rummage through your kitchen for pots and pans for your camping trip, keep in mind certain cooking tools work best on a kitchen stove, and certain tools work best over an open fire, exposed to the elements. Bringing your kitchen wear is fine if it's not your good set, and you don't really care if it gets ruined. But remember, it may not stand up to the harsh treatment it may receive
Cast iron is always the best choice when buying pots and pans for campfire cooking. This will tolerate use over an open fire and any other abuse, which may come with outdoor living. Be sure they have lids and lips on them for placing hot coals to enable cooking from the top and bottom. Handles are also a necessity for easy management. These are great for cooking meats and casseroles. And you can even use them for baking.
Bring the longest utensils that you are able to work with, since they can keep you further away from the fire and prevent burns. Cast iron tools are also one of the best choices. You should bring spatulas, forks, and slotted and regular spoons. Don't forget the hot pads, potholders and oven mitts for the pans right off the fire.
Dutch ovens are favorites for campers, especially the type with legs. They are ideal for roasting or baking. They can also be used for stews or soups. You really don't want to leave home without it because of it's multiple uses. Although a little heavy to cart around, it will make cooking much easier.
If you prefer not to go through the trouble of starting a fire in a pit for your cooking needs, you can bring a camp stove. They are offered with the ability to adjust heating temperatures. There are many types available. There are smaller, lightweight models for backpackers and larger models for family camping. But if you do intend to use the fire pit, make sure you bring a shovel, ash bucket, poker to put out the fire and have a bucket of water on hand for any emergencies.
You don't have to eat sandwiches for every meal while camping and you don't need to fill a trailer with all your cooking tools. By using some ingenuity and planning you can have some hearty homemade meals with just a few items. Decide whether you are going to be cooking over a fire pit or on a portable camping stove. Bring a pot for boiling and a pan for frying, or even your Dutch oven. There are even folding pack sinks with handles for the easy clean ups. Don't forget utensils to mix, stir, serve and drain. Sit back and enjoy roughing it in the woods, and don't leave that can opener at home.