A review by yetanothersusan
The Campout Cookbook: Inspired Recipes for Cooking Around the Fire and Under the Stars by Jen Stevenson, Marnie Hanel

5.0

As I am an avid reader, but not too keen on camping, I gave this book to my Scoutmaster and master camp cook husband to review. The following is his review. For my part, I enjoyed the drawings and tasted the recipes he tried from the book. They were terrific!

This is an excellent book that just happens to be a cookbook. It will satisfy the newcomer to preparing meals in the out of doors to those hearty souls that do that sort of thing on a regular basis. The authors obviously have many years of experience and offer tips that only those that have learned them the hard way would know to pass along.

A thorough packing list is provided, should that be needed to get you started, or to complete your existing cook set. Throughout the book are whimsical cartoon drawings and humorous anecdotes. The authors also provide items to keep you entertained around the campfire and activities to help make the entire outing enjoyable.

The recipes offered cover every meal of the day as well as snacks for extra excursions between meals. Taking your dog? Treats for them are provided too. The first recipe that jumped out to me was the Bulgogi Beef Jerky. As a regular consumer of jerky and someone that makes his own on occasion, my taste buds began to dance as I read the ingredient list for this one. The flavor was subtle, not overpowering as one might expect. This was a very enjoyable treat during a hike after making some.

Next up was one of my favorite meals, pork chops. I made the Bone-in Pork Chops with Fresh Sage, Onions and Apples during a winter campout. I should have brought enough to make a double batch as everyone wanted at least seconds. The flavors were bright, and married together perfectly. It will become a staple in my rotation of regular recipes to make on campouts.

What I like most about this book is the variety of cooking methods offered. From foil wrapped to skillet to dutch oven, there is something for everyone. Simple instructions for each recipe will give confidence to attempt them, especially for the beginner. I couldn't give this cookbook a higher recommendation.

A copy of this book was provided by NetGalley and Artisan Books in exchange for an honest review.