Dinner: Campfire Steak
Ingredients:
Steaks (choose a cut suitable for grilling, such as ribeye, sirloin, or T-bone)
Salt and pepper
Oil (optional, for seasoning the steak or greasing the grill grate)
Additional seasonings or marinades as desired (optional)
Equipment:
Campfire with a grill grate or a cast iron skillet
Tongs or a spatula
Aluminum foil (optional, for resting the steak)
Instructions:
Prepare the Campfire: Build a campfire and allow it to burn down to a bed of hot coals. This provides a consistent heat source for cooking. If using a grill grate, place it over the fire to heat up.
Season the Steak: While the fire is getting ready, season your steaks generously on both sides with salt and pepper. If you have brought additional seasonings or have pre-marinated the steaks, make sure they are ready to go. Let the steaks come to room temperature for more even cooking.
Cooking the Steak:
Direct Grilling: Place the seasoned steak directly on the grill grate over the coals. For a medium-rare finish, grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the steak and the heat of the coals. Adjust the time for your preferred level of doneness.
Skillet Cooking: If using a cast iron skillet, you might choose to heat a bit of oil in the skillet before adding the steak. Cook as you would over the grill, turning once to achieve an even sear on both sides.
Rest the Steak: Once cooked to your liking, transfer the steak to a plate or a piece of aluminum foil. Let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a moist and tender steak.
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
The primary challenge is managing the fire to maintain a consistent cooking temperature. Experience with grilling and understanding your steak's desired level of doneness will aid in achieving perfect results.
Weight Level: Light to Moderate
Practicality:
Cooking steak over a campfire is highly practical for both car camping and more adventurous camping trips, provided you have a means to store the steak safely until cooking time. It offers a high-reward meal with minimal ingredients and equipment. This method of cooking steak encapsulates the essence of outdoor cooking—using simple techniques to produce a flavorful and memorable meal under the open sky.
