Jun 132 min read

UKSN Bushcraft Basics: Wilderness Cooking Tips

Updated: Jul 11

One of the joys of bushcraft is being able to prepare and enjoy meals in the wilderness. Mastering the art of wilderness cooking can enhance your outdoor experience and provide nourishment during your adventures. To ensure you get the most from your next trip we have compiled our top tips.

Bushcraft Basics Wilderness Cooking Feature Image

Campfire Cooking:

Cooking over an open campfire is a classic and versatile method in bushcraft. Learn how to build and manage a campfire safely. Use a sturdy tripod or a grill grate to suspend cookware over the flames. Experiment with different heat levels by adjusting the distance between the fire and your cooking vessel.

Dutch Oven Cooking:

A Dutch oven is a cast-iron pot with a tight-fitting lid, ideal for cooking hearty meals in the wilderness. It can be used for baking, roasting, stewing, and even baking bread. Practice temperature control by adjusting the number of coals placed underneath and on top of the oven.

One-Pot Meals:

Simplify your cooking process by preparing one-pot meals. Combine ingredients such as meat, vegetables, and grains in a single pot or pan to create flavourful and nutritious dishes. This minimises the number of cookware items to clean and conserves resources.

Foraging and Wild Edibles:

Expand your culinary options by incorporating foraged ingredients into your meals. Learn about wild edible plants, mushrooms, and berries in your area. Properly identify and gather only what you know is safe and sustainable. Experiment with incorporating these wild edibles into your recipes for a unique dining experience.

Campfire Cooking Tools:

Carry essential campfire cooking tools such as a sturdy knife, a cutting board, tongs, a spatula, and a pot lifter. These tools will assist you in preparing and handling food over the fire safely and efficiently.

Leave No Trace Principles:

Respect the environment and practice Leave No Trace principles while cooking in the wilderness. Properly extinguish your fire and dispose of food scraps and waste responsibly.

Share your favourite wilderness recipes, cooking tips, and memorable campfire cooking experiences with the community! Let's inspire each other to create delicious meals in the great outdoors.