Dinner: Campfire Lamb Stew
Ingredients:
1-2 pounds of lamb meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
2-3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
4 cups of beef or vegetable broth
1 cup of water (adjust as needed)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon of dried rosemary or thyme
Olive oil or another cooking oil
Optional: 1 cup of diced tomatoes or tomato paste for added flavor
Instructions:
Prep at Home: To save time and reduce the weight of your pack, consider pre-cutting the vegetables and lamb, and then storing them in separate airtight containers or bags in a cooler.
At Camp: Heat a bit of oil in a large pot over your camp stove or an open fire. Add the lamb cubes and cook until they're evenly browned on all sides. Remove the lamb and set aside.
In the same pot, add the onions and garlic, cooking until softened. Then, return the lamb to the pot along with the carrots, potatoes, and any other vegetables you're using.
Pour in the broth and water, ensuring the ingredients are well-covered. Add the dried rosemary or thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to let the stew simmer. Cover the pot with a lid or aluminum foil and continue to simmer for at least 1-2 hours, or until the lamb is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
Adjust the seasoning as needed and serve hot.
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
This recipe involves multiple steps and requires attention to cooking times, especially to ensure the lamb is tender and flavorful. Managing a simmering stew over a campfire or stove can be challenging but is certainly doable with some experience.
Weight Level: Moderate to Heavy
Practicality
Lamb stew is more suited to base camp scenarios, car camping, or short hikes where carrying weight is less of an issue. It's an excellent option for feeding a group, providing a nutritious and filling meal after a day of outdoor activities. The key to practicality lies in pre-trip preparation and ensuring you have the necessary equipment to cook and simmer the stew for an extended period.
