Camp Cooking in Australia
Camp cooking has evolved far beyond sausages on a stick. With the right equipment and techniques, camp meals can rival restaurant quality. Here is everything you need to cook well in the Australian outdoors.
Essential Camp Kitchen Equipment
- Two-burner camp stove for daily cooking
- 9-quart cast iron camp oven for roasts and bread
- Sharp chef’s knife and folding cutting board
- Non-stick frying pan (30cm)
- Medium saucepan with lid
- Camp kettle for coffee and tea
- Biodegradable washing-up liquid and basin
Camp Oven Basics
The secret to great camp oven cooking is coals, not flames. Use a third of coals underneath and two thirds on top for even heat. A 9-quart camp oven at 180 degrees produces excellent roasts, stews and damper. Preheat the oven before adding food for best results.
Easy Camp Recipes
Camp Oven Damper: 3 cups self-raising flour, 1 tsp salt, 1 cup milk, 2 tbsp butter. Mix, form into a round, cook 35-40 minutes with coals top and bottom. One-Pot Curry: Brown protein, add curry paste, coconut cream and vegetables. Simmer 40 minutes. Breakfast Hash: Dice leftover potato, fry with bacon and eggs. Ready in 15 minutes.
Food Safety in the Bush
Never leave food out overnight – wildlife will find it. Store food in hard-sided containers in the car, not the tent. In crocodile country, cook and eat well away from the water’s edge. Keep your camp kitchen clean to avoid attracting insects and rodents.