Campfire Chili: A Simple and Hearty Camping Recipe

When it comes to campfire cooking, nothing beats a warm, hearty bowl of chili. It’s easy to make, satisfying after a long day of outdoor adventure, and a crowd-pleaser around the campfire. This campfire chili recipe is designed for simplicity, using basic ingredients you can bring along on your camping trip and cook in just one pot. Whether you’re an experienced camper or new to outdoor cooking, this chili will be a hit on your next adventure.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)

• 1 onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)

• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)

• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

• 1 packet of chili seasoning mix (or homemade blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Olive oil or cooking spray

• Shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

• Cornbread or tortilla chips for serving (optional)

Equipment:

• Cast iron skillet or Dutch oven

• Wooden spoon or spatula

• Heatproof gloves or tongs

• Campfire grill grate or portable camping stove

Instructions:

Step 1: Set Up Your Campfire or Stove

Start by getting your campfire going and letting it burn down to a nice bed of hot coals, or set up your portable camping stove. You want medium heat for cooking the chili. If using a fire, make sure you have a grill grate over the fire so you can cook evenly.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

Place your cast iron skillet or Dutch oven on the fire or stove. Add a splash of olive oil to the pan, or use cooking spray if preferred. Once the pan is hot, add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

Once the meat is browned, add the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper (if using) to the pan. Stir everything together and let the vegetables cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. The onions should become translucent, and the garlic should be fragrant.

Step 4: Stir in the Tomatoes and Beans

Next, add the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, kidney beans, and black beans to the pan. Stir everything together to combine well.

Step 5: Season the Chili

Sprinkle in the chili seasoning mix (or your homemade spice blend). Stir to evenly coat the meat, beans, and vegetables with the seasoning. If you like your chili with a bit of a kick, you can add extra chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Simmer the Chili

Once all the ingredients are combined, cover the skillet or Dutch oven with a lid or foil and let the chili simmer over the fire for about 20-30 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom, and allow the flavors to meld together. You’ll know it’s ready when the chili has thickened slightly and is heated through.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Carefully remove the skillet from the fire using heatproof gloves or tongs. Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes, like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions. Serve with cornbread or tortilla chips for a complete camping meal.

Tips for Perfect Campfire Chili:

• Prep Ahead: Dice your vegetables and measure out your seasoning before heading to the campsite to save time.

• Use a Dutch Oven: A cast iron Dutch oven is ideal for campfire chili, as it retains heat and cooks evenly.

• Spice It Up: Customize your chili by adding extra heat with jalapeños or hot sauce.

• Keep it Simple: This recipe is flexible—use what you have on hand, whether it’s different beans, ground meat, or vegetables.

Conclusion:

Campfire chili is the ultimate camping meal—easy, flavorful, and perfect for sharing. With just a few simple ingredients and one pot, you can whip up a satisfying dinner that everyone around the campfire will enjoy. So next time you head out on a camping trip, give this hearty campfire chili recipe a try and enjoy a taste of comfort in the great outdoors!

Happy camping and happy cooking!

You Might Also Like