Cooking outdoors while you’re camping isn’t just a necessity, it can actually be an adventure on its own. Whether you’re on a long camping trip, or just having a nice picnic day, all you need to cook successful and delicious meals is the right gear. Let’s look at some of the essential tools every on-the-go chef should have in their arsenal, along with some other tips to ensure a nice cooking experience.
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Essential tools
Before you go on your trip or picnic, you’re gonna need to pick up tools that are going to help you ease the process of cooking and prepare and serve the meal for everyone in your group. Here are some of these tools that you’re going to need.
Stove and Accessories
The cornerstone of every kitchen, whether it’s outdoor or indoor, is the stove. There are many portable stoves out on the market and you can choose propane or butane stoves which are a popular choice, but you can also choose a stove from a high-quality brand Firebox, that is specifically designed for outdoor use.
Is Firebox worth it? These stoves are known for their compact size and the efficient use of fuel because they typically use natural fuels such as wood, twigs, pine cones and other biomass materials. They are designed to burn these materials efficiently, generating heat for cooking, boiling water and even heating, while minimising smoke and emissions. They come in different sizes and you can choose whichever works for you and the group you’re cooking for. They consist of a combustion chamber where the fuel burns and a cooking surface or pot support above it.
You’re also going to need some accessories for the stove, just so that you can optimise the cooking. Perhaps get a portable grill grate that can transform your stove into a barbeque, perfect for grilling burgers, vegetables and more. Another great accessory can be the baking stone on which you can bake frozen pizzas or cakes and enjoy the taste of freshly baked pizza in nature. The last accessory is the Firebox stove coal rack.
When you place the coal or fuel directly on the aluminium they will quickly die out because the aluminium is cold. This rack raises the coals of the aluminium and allows them to stay hot for much longer, letting you cook in peace. Don’t forget to bring a case for all of these accessories as well as for the stove so that you can store them carefully and in a safe place so that you can preserve them and they can last you for a longer period.
Pots and Pans
Pots and pans are important because you’re going to be cooking in them. Choose lightweight, durable ones that are designed specifically for outdoor use. Look for non-stick coatings and high-quality materials that ensure the heat is evenly distributed and prevent burning and sticking, allowing you to whip up delicious meals every time you’re outdoors.
Food Containers
Bringing food containers with you is a must. You’re going to need to store the ingredients and the leftovers in something, so make sure to get containers that are lightweight and stackable so that they don’t weigh you down on the trail. Look for containers made from durable materials, such as stainless steel, and consider buying insulated options to keep the leftovers fresh and warm for longer.
Utensils
Utensils such as a spatula, tongs, serving spoons and similar are very important when deciding to cook outside. Opt for ones that are made from hear-resistance materials, like silicone or stainless steel, so that you can avoid any accidents while cooking. These are also recommended for the durability, important for withstanding outdoor conditions. Consider buying foldable designs to save some space in your luggage.
Cooler
It’s necessary to keep ingredients fresh and beverages cool, so bringing a high-quality cooler with you on the trips isn’t quite optional. Consider getting an Icebox cooler with wheels so that it’s easier to transport, especially if you’re carrying a heavy load. Make sure that the model you’re getting has thick insulation and secure latches to prevent leaks and maintain temperature control.
Maintenance and Safety Tips
Proper maintenance is essential to not only keep your cooking gear safe but to also prolong their lifespan. Clean the pots, pans and other accessories after every use with water and soap and let everything dry before you pack them. Store stoves and accessories in a cool and dry place, without direct sunlight when not using them to avoid rust and corrosion.
It’s important to be safe while cooking, especially in nature. If the weather is windy, pay close attention to the fire and even keep a fire extinguisher or a bucket of water nearby for emergencies and never cook inside the tent for obvious reasons. Always check the food for expiration dates so that you don’t get food poisoning.
With the right tools and preparation, outdoor cooking can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. If you go on these trips often, invest in high-quality gear that meets your needs and preferences and don’t forget to prioritise safety at all times. Happy cooking.
