There’s just something about cooking outside that hits different. Maybe it’s the crackling fire, the smell of woodsmoke, or the fact that everything tastes better when you're surrounded by trees and fresh air.
Whether you’re out on a weekend camping trip or just setting up a cozy fire in your backyard, this guide will walk you through how to turn simple ingredients into a mouthwatering meal—no kitchen required. Let’s take it from forest to feast.
Step 1: Keep the Menu Simple (But Delicious)
Out here, you don’t need anything fancy. No ten-step recipes or delicate sauces. Stick to the basics—stuff that’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to prep.
Think:
🔥 A juicy steak or chicken thigh
🔥 Fire-roasted veggies
🔥 Some herby potatoes
🔥 Maybe even some campfire bread or a skillet cookie if you’re feeling fancy
The goal? Satisfying, no-fuss food that’ll warm your belly and make you feel like an outdoor chef.
Step 2: Build the Right Fire
You don’t need to be a survival expert to get this right—just give your fire enough time to burn down to coals before you cook. Coals give you steady, even heat, unlike wild, dancing flames.
If you’ve got space, try a two-zone setup: one side hot for searing, the other cooler for slow-cooking or keeping food warm.
Take your time here—this part sets the tone for the whole meal.
Step 3: Bring Cast Iron (It’s a Game-Changer)
If you’ve never cooked with cast iron over a fire, you're in for a treat. It holds heat like a dream and adds that beautiful char and flavor you just can’t get any other way.
🔥 I swear by the MWTP Cast Iron Skillet—it’s deep, seasoned to perfection, and tough enough to handle whatever you throw in it.
From steak and potatoes to fire-baked cornbread or gooey skillet cookies, this pan does it all.
Step 4: Use a Knife That Can Handle the Wild
When you're out in the elements, you need a blade that works as hard as you do. Whether you're slicing up dinner, chopping herbs, or cutting rope, your knife has to be up for it.
🔥 I love the Moss Green Cleaver—it's sharp, solid, and honestly... kind of a showstopper.
That burl wood handle? Gorgeous. And it makes prep work feel like part of the adventure.
Keep it sharp with the MWTP Honing Steel—it takes two seconds and makes a world of difference.
Step 5: Stir, Flip, and Serve with Style
Sure, you can use random tongs and plastic utensils—but why not go full forest chef mode and make it feel special?
🌿 The Olive Wood 5 PC Utensil Set is my go-to for campfire cooking. They're sturdy, naturally heat-resistant, and honestly, just feel good in your hand.
🪵 And when it’s time to serve, lay everything out on the Olive Wood Cutting Board. It’s rustic, beautiful, and makes even the simplest meal look gourmet.
Step 6: Sit Back, Eat Slow, Soak It All In
The fire’s crackling. The food smells incredible. You’re out in nature, far from emails, notifications, and whatever was stressing you out this week.
This is the good stuff. Eat slow. Go for seconds. Pass the pan around.
Campfire cooking doesn’t have to be complicated. With a solid knife, a trusty skillet, and a bit of prep, you can turn a quiet spot in the woods into a five-star outdoor kitchen.
🔥 Ready to upgrade your setup? Check out the full collection of knives, cast iron, and olive wood gear at Men With The Pot. Everything’s built to last—and built for the wild.
