Campfire Feast

Mastering Burgers, Bread & Salad over Fire

There’s nothing quite like a delicious meal cooked over a crackling campfire. This guide will equip you to create the perfect campfire feast, featuring juicy burgers, a fresh salad, and crusty bread, all prepared using the magic of fire!

Gear Up

Fire pit

Make sure it’s a designated fire pit and follow all local fire regulations.

Grill grate

A sturdy grill grate positioned over the fire allows for even cooking.

Cast iron skillet

A versatile tool for cooking burgers and bread directly over the fire.

Long tongs

Essential for flipping burgers and manoeuvring hot coals.

Sharp knife and cutting board

For prepping ingredients.

Mixing bowls and utensils

For burger prep and salad dressing.

Cooler

To keep ingredients fresh.

Burger Basics

Meat Matters

Choose high-quality ground beef with a fat content between 15-20% for flavour and juiciness. Season them simply with salt and pepper or add your favourite burger seasoning for a kick.

Fire Finesse

Wait until the fire burns down from a roaring blaze to glowing embers. This ensures even heat without burning the burgers. Sear the burgers directly on the preheated grill grate for a nice crust. The cooking time will vary depending on thickness and desired done-ness. Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature (160°F for medium-rare).

Salad Simplicity

Fresh & Flavourful

Choose a mix of sturdy greens like romaine lettuce or kale, alongside chopped vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions.

Campfire Dressing

Keep it simple with a classic vinaigrette.  Whisk together olive oil, vinegar (balsamic, red wine, or apple cider), a squeeze of lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a jar before heading out.  

Bread Baking

Campfire Cob Loaf

This rustic bread is perfect for campfire cooking. Prepare the dough at home using basic ingredients like flour, water, yeast, salt, and a touch of olive oil.  Mix it into a shaggy dough, shape it into a round loaf, and place it directly on the hot coals.   Cover it with a cast-iron Dutch oven (preheated with some coals on top) to trap heat and create a mini-oven effect. Bake for 30-40 minutes, turning occasionally for even browning.

Putting it all Together

Fire Prep

Build your fire and allow it to burn down to glowing embers before starting to cook.

Burger Time

Season and cook your burger patties on the grill grate over the fire.

Salad on the Side

Toss your salad ingredients with the prepped vinaigrette dressing just before serving.

Bread Baking Magic

While the burgers cook, place your dough on the hot coals and cover it with the preheated Dutch oven.

Feast by Firelight

Enjoy your delicious campfire meal – juicy burgers, fresh salad, and crusty bread – all cooked to perfection over the open fire!

Bonus Tips

Toast hamburger buns directly on the grill grate for a smoky flavour.
Add cheese to your burgers towards the end of cooking for melty goodness.
Get creative with your salad toppings!  Crumbled bacon, avocado slices, or a sprinkle of cheese can add extra flavour.
Wrap leftover burger ingredients in foil for a quick and tasty lunch the next day.

With a little planning and these handy tips, you’ll be a campfire cooking pro in no time!  Enjoy your delicious outdoor feast and create lasting memories under the stars.