Dinner: Campfire Empanadas
Ingredients:
Pre-made empanada dough or puff pastry (for ease of preparation)
Filling of choice: this could be a simple mix of cooked meat (chicken, beef, or pork), cheese, and/or vegetables. Spices and seasonings as desired.
Egg wash (optional, for a golden finish)
Oil or butter for frying or baking
Equipment:
Skillet, pan, or portable camping oven
Aluminum foil (if opting to bake)
Instructions:
Prep the Filling (Optional Pre-Trip): You can cook and season your filling before leaving for your trip, then store it in a cooler to keep it fresh. This saves time and simplifies cooking at the campsite.
Assemble the Empanadas: If using pre-made dough, roll it out and cut into circles. Place a spoonful of your filling onto each dough circle, fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape, and seal the edges by pressing down with a fork.
Cooking Method:
Frying: Heat oil or butter in a skillet over your camp stove or fire. Once hot, fry the empanadas until they're golden brown on both sides.
Baking: If you have a camping oven or a method to bake, brush the empanadas with an egg wash for a golden finish, wrap them in aluminum foil, and place them near the campfire or in the oven. Bake until the dough is cooked through and golden.
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Making empanadas from scratch in the outdoors can be a bit challenging due to the need for preparing and handling dough, as well as cooking the fillings. Using pre-made dough and pre-cooked fillings can significantly simplify the process.
Weight Level: Moderate
Practicality:
Empanadas are a fantastic option for a special camping meal, particularly if you're willing to do some preparation before your trip. They can be made in a batch, offering a convenient way to feed a group. Their hand-held nature makes them practical for eating around the campfire without the need for plates or cutlery.
