Are you dreaming of cozy nights around a crackling campfire, the scent of woodsmoke mingling with the irresistible aroma of perfectly cooked beef? This Campfire Beef recipe, inspired by the hearty flavors of Cracker Barrel, is your ticket to campfire cooking bliss. It's a surprisingly easy recipe, perfect for beginners and seasoned campers alike, resulting in a tender, smoky beef dish that's guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Forget those complicated campfire meals; this quick dinner idea delivers big on flavor without the fuss.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Get Started:
- In a large bowl, combine the beef cubes, onion, and garlic.
Marinate (Optional but Recommended):
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the beef and onion mixture, ensuring all the beef is well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, for maximum flavor. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final dish.
Campfire Cooking:
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Prepare your campfire for indirect cooking. You'll want a bed of hot coals on one side and a cooler area on the other. This prevents burning while ensuring even cooking.
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Place the beef and marinade mixture in a heavy-duty Dutch oven or oven-safe campfire pot. If using a Dutch oven, you can place it directly on the coals. If using a campfire pot, adjust the heat by moving it closer to or further from the coals as needed.
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Cover the pot and cook over medium heat for approximately 2-3 hours, or until the beef is incredibly tender and easily shreds with a fork. Occasionally stir the beef and check the liquid level, adding a little more beef broth if needed to prevent sticking or drying. The low and slow cooking method will allow the flavors to deepen.
Serving Suggestions:
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Once cooked, remove the beef from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before shredding it with two forks. You can serve the campfire beef directly from the pot, or transfer it to a serving dish.
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Serve this delicious and healthy meal with your favorite campfire sides, such as corn on the cob, roasted potatoes, or a simple green salad. This hearty dish is perfect for a casual outdoor meal.
Cooking Tips for Campfire Success:
- Meat Selection: A chuck roast is ideal for this recipe due to its high fat content and inherent tenderness after a long slow cook.
- Temperature Control: Maintaining a consistent, low heat is crucial for tender beef. Adjust the pot's position over the coals as needed to regulate the temperature.
- Liquid Management: Keep an eye on the liquid level throughout the cooking process. Add a little extra beef broth or water if necessary to prevent the beef from drying out.
- Don't Overcrowd: Ensure the beef isn't overcrowded in the pot, which can hinder even cooking.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade for a spicier version.
- BBQ Twist: Substitute BBQ sauce for the ketchup for a smoky BBQ-flavored beef.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with adding fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano to enhance the flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving - approximate):
This information is approximate and will vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
This Campfire Beef recipe provides a delicious and easy way to enjoy a hearty meal outdoors. It's a fantastic addition to your homemade cooking repertoire, perfect for family gatherings or a romantic evening under the stars. Enjoy!