Dinner: Campfire Beef Stroganoff over Rice

Ingredients:

• 1 pound beef (sirloin or a similar cut), cut into thin strips

• 1-2 cups of sliced mushrooms

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 1-2 cloves of garlic, minced (optional)

• 1 cup beef broth

• 1 cup sour cream (or a shelf-stable alternative if refrigeration is a concern)

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Butter or oil for frying

• Instant rice, for serving

Instructions:

1. At Home Preparation: Pre-cut the beef into thin strips and pack it in a cooler. Pre-chop the onions and garlic, and slice the mushrooms, storing them separately in airtight containers.

2. At Camp: Cook the instant rice according to the package instructions, using a pot over your camp stove or fire. Set aside and keep warm.

3. Heat a skillet or pan over the camp stove or open fire, adding a bit of butter or oil. Add the onions and garlic, cooking until they're soft and translucent. Add the mushrooms and cook until browned.

4. Add the beef strips, cooking until browned on all sides. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Sprinkle the flour over the beef and vegetables, stirring to coat. Gradually add the beef broth, stirring continuously to create a smooth sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer and thicken.

6. Remove from the heat and stir in the sour cream until well combined. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.

7. Serve the beef stroganoff over the prepared rice.

Difficulty: Moderate

This meal involves multiple steps and requires attention to detail, especially when cooking over an uneven heat source like a campfire. However, with preparation done at home, the cooking process can be simplified.

Weight Level: Moderate to High

Practicality:

Beef Stroganoff over rice is a luxurious camping meal that's best suited for trips where weight is not the primary concern, such as car camping or short-distance hikes to your campsite. It requires a cooler to keep certain ingredients fresh, as well as a camp stove or fire for cooking. This dish is ideal for cooler evenings when a warm, hearty meal can be especially comforting. By doing most of the prep work at home, you can enjoy this gourmet meal with relatively little hassle at camp, making your outdoor experience all the more enjoyable.