I like to try things that i am too afraid to try at home–like beef stew.  If it doesn't turn out quite as well as planned–it won't matter because everyone is so hungry it won't matter!

I have a cast iron dutch oven with a lid that I heat up over the fire for a few minutes.  It is seasoned now, so I don't add much oil to the pan.

Beef Stew – Camping Recipe

ingredients:

•  1 1/2 of beef stew meat 
• 4 large carrots
• 3 large potatoes
• 3 celery ribs
• 1 large onion
• 1 small can of beef stock
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Package of frozen peas

In the fire pit, have a bunch of hot coals about 6 inches from the rack holding the pan.  Brown the beef in the pan,  adding stock as needed to prevent sticking to the bottom.  While the beef browning, chop the veggies into bite size pieces.  Add all of the veggies to the pot, (except the peas!) & stir in the remaining stock.  Cover and allow to simmer for a few hours until the veggies are tender.  Now is the time to add the peas, and a little water if needed.  If you want thicker sauce, I add a little pancake mix instead of flour.  Stir it well to mix all the ingredients.  Replace the lid for awhile to continue to simmer.

I think the hardest thing to manage with campfire cooking is the temperature–too hot and it will burn, not enough coals and it will not cook.  The best suggestion is to watch the fire to check if more needs to be added or if the flame is to hot. A quick adjustment for temperature is too move the rack.  Happy camping! 

The last time I made this stew I got 9 'thumbs up from Little N. & Hubby said that Dinty More needs to take notes.  If you need more detailed info, PM me and I will get the info for you.