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Nothing brings out your appetite like spending the day
outdoors. That's why preparing meals while camping is
so rewarding. Indulge your primal senses and cravings!
Doing so will enhance the Romance…
Cooking Basics
- Backpacking:
Great meals are possible while backpacking! However,
without the benefit of a cooler food spoilage becomes
a factor. You don’t want to become sick miles away from
civilization. If you are backpacking it’s wise to stick
with hard cheeses, canned, dry food and sturdy veggies.
- Car-Camping:
This style of camping is associated with the luxury
of a cooler. The cooler does more than keep your brews
cold. The cooler allows you to store meats, dairy and
other fresh ingredients. If you are Car-Camping with
a cooler your meal options are almost limitless!
ROMANTIC IDEA: If you're NOT backpacking, bring the home
dishware and utensils! Romantic Camping blends modern luxuries
with the rustic beauty of the outdoors. Use nice table settings.
They will look and feel great in the warm light of your
fire or lantern!
- Food Packaging:
The food you take camping should be placed in re-sealable
bags or plastic containers. Why do this? You are leaving
your house and entering the wilderness! Guard your food
items from the critters that want to get into it. Moisture
is another factor that can spoil your food supply. Keep
it sealed! More good advice on keeping your food safe
from wildlife is provided in the Wildlife
section.
- Kitchen Equipment:
You can spend lots-o-cash building the ultimate camping
kitchen. Cooking equipment like camping knives, camping
cookware and camping stoves can add-up. Using specialized
camping equipment can make your life easier. However,
Romantic meals can be prepared over the campfire without
using special equipment. Chances are you already have
the basic gear you need to get started! Check your home
kitchen... Knives, utensils, plates, wine glasses, old
pots and pans will survive your camping trip.
REMEMBER: If you are using pots or pans over an open fire
the bottoms will turn black. This carbon buildup can be
nearly impossible to wash off. The trick is to rub liquid
dish detergent all over the outside of the pot or pan BEFORE
you begin. This little layer of soap will save you big time!
Cooking (or Not?)
You don't have to cook! There are times when you can't
be bothered. That's OK! Are there restaurants near your
campsite? Go check them out. I've enjoyed many restaurant
meals while camping. I fully recommend dining out when
Romantic Camping!
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