Dutch ovens are a perennial favorite for several reasons. They're great heat conductors, and the durable construction from solid cast iron lasts for years to come. It's safe to say they're cherished heirlooms for camper families. Most cast iron dutch oven set today arrive pre-seasoned, with standards of pre-seasoning varying from manufacturer to manufacturer or brand to brand.
However, a little TLC from time to time will have them looking good as new and ready for mouthwatering Dutch oven recipes amidst the mesmerizing outdoors. Here's a quick guide for seasoning cast-iron Dutch ovens to prolong their life. But first, what does it mean to season Dutch ovens? Let's find out.
Dutch Oven Seasoning: All You Need to Know
Seasoning Dutch ovens refers to the process of adhering oil to prevent rust, protect the cast-iron material, and create a non-stick surface. Seasoning is important, even before the first use, as it helps remove any residual contaminants from the factory.
Without the additional layer, the Dutch oven will remain exposed to water, oxygen, and vapor, all of which are a perfect recipe for rust spots. With continued use, the coating of your Dutch oven will become reinforced, helping make the cooking process better each time. Thus, for a seamless cooking experience, every time you go camping with your loved ones, make sure to season the Dutch oven once it arrives.
How to Season or Re-Season Cast-Iron Dutch Ovens?
The surface of your Dutch oven is likely to improve over time when you cook food with oil. However, sometimes the coating can rust, deteriorate, or lose its non-stick qualities. Acidic ingredients are quite harsh on cast iron.
If your Dutch oven is rusty, you might need to strip it completely with special cleaners before beginning the seasoning process all over. If it's new or in good condition, it'll just need a refresh. You still need to ensure it's free of any leftover baked-on food by scrubbing it thoroughly with hot water. If you need to use soap, make sure it's a mild one. Towel dry it, and then begin your seasoning journey by following the steps below.
Step 1 – Oil Rub
Picking out the right oil for your Dutch oven seasoning is important. Once the pan is cooled down and completely dried, rub a few drops of lard or vegetable oil into the pot with a paper towel. If the surface absorbs the oil quickly, add in more until the surface changes color and has a shine to it without any leftover dry areas. The goal is to coat the entire pot with the sides, bottom, top, and handle completely covered in a thin layer of oil. However, make sure to wipe out any excess because any extra oil lingering on the pot can make it sticky during and after the heating process. Your pan should look nearly dry once you've completed this step.
Step 2 – Bake
Once you've covered the pot in oil, place the cast-iron Dutch oven upside down on your oven's middle rack and turn the heat on to 400F. Make sure you keep an aluminum foil sheet on the bottom rack to catch possible drips. Bake your pot for up to an hour.
Step 3 – Cool
Let the pot cool down once you turn the oven off but close the oven door. Be patient because this could take a while. Remove the pot once it has completely cooled off. You'll need to repeat the steps a couple of times until your Dutch oven become non-stick and glossy.
Pro Tip: Regularly seasoning your cast iron will keep it free from rust and in great shape for years to come. However, you should avoid storing them in cabinets or places with high moisture levels. We suggest getting a proper tool bag for the cast iron accessories and Dutch Oven Tools Set. It makes it safe, easier to store, and convenient to carry whenever you feel like setting out for a camping trip.
Everyone who cooks with cast-iron Dutch ovens on their camping trips grows to love and cherish the versatile outdoor cooking equipment. Seasoning is just part of the process, but it could easily become a fun activity once you're familiar with its unique charm.
Once your Dutch oven is revitalized, it will soon be ready for creative breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and dessert recipes. Check out our range of cast-iron accessories such as charcoal holders, collapsible charcoal chimneys, kickstands, heat-resistant gloves, portable charcoal grills, lid lifters, and more. You can also order separate Dutch ovens or complete Dutch oven sets to make things easier on your next camping trip.
Reach out to place an order! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube channel to learn more about using CampMaid equipment or staying updated about our innovative outdoor cooking solutions.
Dutch ovens are a perennial favorite for several reasons. They're great heat conductors, and the durable construction from solid cast iron lasts for years to come. It's safe to say they're cherished heirlooms for camper families. Most cast iron dutch oven set today arrive pre-seasoned, with standards of pre-seasoning varying from manufacturer to manufacturer or brand to brand.
However, a little TLC from time to time will have them looking good as new and ready for mouthwatering Dutch oven recipes amidst the mesmerizing outdoors. Here's a quick guide for seasoning cast-iron Dutch ovens to prolong their life. But first, what does it mean to season Dutch ovens? Let's find out.
Dutch Oven Seasoning: All You Need to Know
Seasoning Dutch ovens refers to the process of adhering oil to prevent rust, protect the cast-iron material, and create a non-stick surface. Seasoning is important, even before the first use, as it helps remove any residual contaminants from the factory.
Without the additional layer, the Dutch oven will remain exposed to water, oxygen, and vapor, all of which are a perfect recipe for rust spots. With continued use, the coating of your Dutch oven will become reinforced, helping make the cooking process better each time. Thus, for a seamless cooking experience, every time you go camping with your loved ones, make sure to season the Dutch oven once it arrives.
How to Season or Re-Season Cast-Iron Dutch Ovens?
The surface of your Dutch oven is likely to improve over time when you cook food with oil. However, sometimes the coating can rust, deteriorate, or lose its non-stick qualities. Acidic ingredients are quite harsh on cast iron.
If your Dutch oven is rusty, you might need to strip it completely with special cleaners before beginning the seasoning process all over. If it's new or in good condition, it'll just need a refresh. You still need to ensure it's free of any leftover baked-on food by scrubbing it thoroughly with hot water. If you need to use soap, make sure it's a mild one. Towel dry it, and then begin your seasoning journey by following the steps below.
Step 1 – Oil Rub
Picking out the right oil for your Dutch oven seasoning is important. Once the pan is cooled down and completely dried, rub a few drops of lard or vegetable oil into the pot with a paper towel. If the surface absorbs the oil quickly, add in more until the surface changes color and has a shine to it without any leftover dry areas. The goal is to coat the entire pot with the sides, bottom, top, and handle completely covered in a thin layer of oil. However, make sure to wipe out any excess because any extra oil lingering on the pot can make it sticky during and after the heating process. Your pan should look nearly dry once you've completed this step.
Step 2 – Bake
Once you've covered the pot in oil, place the cast-iron Dutch oven upside down on your oven's middle rack and turn the heat on to 400F. Make sure you keep an aluminum foil sheet on the bottom rack to catch possible drips. Bake your pot for up to an hour.
Step 3 – Cool
Let the pot cool down once you turn the oven off but close the oven door. Be patient because this could take a while. Remove the pot once it has completely cooled off. You'll need to repeat the steps a couple of times until your Dutch oven become non-stick and glossy.
Pro Tip: Regularly seasoning your cast iron will keep it free from rust and in great shape for years to come. However, you should avoid storing them in cabinets or places with high moisture levels. We suggest getting a proper tool bag for the cast iron accessories and Dutch Oven Tools Set. It makes it safe, easier to store, and convenient to carry whenever you feel like setting out for a camping trip.
Everyone who cooks with cast-iron Dutch ovens on their camping trips grows to love and cherish the versatile outdoor cooking equipment. Seasoning is just part of the process, but it could easily become a fun activity once you're familiar with its unique charm.
Once your Dutch oven is revitalized, it will soon be ready for creative breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and dessert recipes. Check out our range of cast-iron accessories such as charcoal holders, collapsible charcoal chimneys, kickstands, heat-resistant gloves, portable charcoal grills, lid lifters, and more. You can also order separate Dutch ovens or complete Dutch oven sets to make things easier on your next camping trip.
Reach out to place an order! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube channel to learn more about using CampMaid equipment or staying updated about our innovative outdoor cooking solutions.
How To Season A New Cast Iron Dutch Oven For The First Time
Reliable and versatile cast-iron Dutch ovens are camp cooking powerhouses. Here's how to season the critical outdoor cooking equipment to ensure it remains in great shape.
Head into the mountains, woods in a national park, or wilderness lands for a relaxing camping trip.
Reasons To Go Camping
Going camping is an exciting idea. However, sometimes you might forget to pack some super-important items.
Essential Tools For A Camping Trip
Vegetables are easy to cook both on or in a campfire—the key to getting the perfectly cooked vegetables are coverage and timing. Depending on what you’re cooking for your campsite meal, you’re going to have to put the veggies on the fire before the chicken, fish, steak, or any other meat.
Vegetables such as carrots, brussels sprouts, potatoes, and corn on the cob take a long time to cook, while others such as broccoli or onion need less time on the fire. Peas, mushrooms, zucchini, and other soft vegetables require the least amount of time. Due to the difference in cooking times, it’s important to separate your veggies and meat when cooking over a campfire.
Prep your veggies
You shouldn’t wait till the last moment to slice your veggies up and get them ready for the campfire. Julienne, dice, slice, or shop your veggies beforehand, and even take your preparation a step further to create some well-seasoned foil pouches and put them in the cooler. Make sure to take them out around an hour before cooking so that they reach room temperature and cook in a more uniform manner.
Use a bed of coals
You’ll need to have a fire that can burn long enough to make a hot bed of coals for this method. this is one of the best conditions to cook your food in, since the heat is more consistent, and the fire isn’t raging out of control. Keep stirring up the coals to even the heat out, wrap your veggies in foil, and place them straight onto the coals.
Don’t bury the little metal pouch of veggies since it can get too hot to touch, and you might not even find it if it’s too dark. This method is great for potatoes and carrots.
Top veggies
Here’s how you can cook some of these top favorites while you’re camping:
Carrots
Carrots aren’t the trickiest vegetable to cook, but they take much longer than you’d expect. Cut your carrots into slices and flavor them with a little bit of salt, pepper, and oil. Take care when selecting its seasonings and herbs since they’re already quite flavorful on their own.
Potatoes
Potatoes can take more than 90 minutes to be properly done. If you’re sure you want to bake a whole potato, prick it all over and rub on some salt and oil before wrapping it in foil. Rest the little ball on the embers and wait for it to soften. You can also dice or slice it to ensure faster cooking and add flavor with some oil-based salad dressing, or butter if you’re using a slow-cooking method.
Brussels sprouts
Brussels sprouts need to be exposed to be properly cooked—cut the ends off and slice the sprouts in half before placing the pieces on some foil and cooking them over a grate for around 30 minutes. You can also roast them in a Dutch oven with some onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and oil. A sweet balsamic vinaigrette can also bring out their delicious flavor.
Get a cast Dutch oven for more versatility while cooking
Cast iron Dutch ovens are the perfect pot to cook anything! Its thick base and walls ensure slow and even cooking, meaning that your food will be perfectly cooked on the inside without getting burned. They’re perfect for retaining heat and making slow-cooking recipes such as hearty stews with some delicious vegetables.
Take a look at CampMaid’s cast iron dutch oven set! Our wide assortment of high-quality Camp Kitchen Equipment is the perfect choice for cooking some yummy veggies in the great outdoors.
Contact us for more details about our outdoor cooking essentials.
Vegetables are easy to cook both on or in a campfire—the key to getting the perfectly cooked vegetables are coverage and timing. Depending on what you’re cooking for your campsite meal, you’re going to have to put the veggies on the fire before the chicken, fish, steak, or any other meat.
Vegetables such as carrots, brussels sprouts, potatoes, and corn on the cob take a long time to cook, while others such as broccoli or onion need less time on the fire. Peas, mushrooms, zucchini, and other soft vegetables require the least amount of time. Due to the difference in cooking times, it’s important to separate your veggies and meat when cooking over a campfire.
Prep your veggies
You shouldn’t wait till the last moment to slice your veggies up and get them ready for the campfire. Julienne, dice, slice, or shop your veggies beforehand, and even take your preparation a step further to create some well-seasoned foil pouches and put them in the cooler. Make sure to take them out around an hour before cooking so that they reach room temperature and cook in a more uniform manner.
Use a bed of coals
You’ll need to have a fire that can burn long enough to make a hot bed of coals for this method. this is one of the best conditions to cook your food in, since the heat is more consistent, and the fire isn’t raging out of control. Keep stirring up the coals to even the heat out, wrap your veggies in foil, and place them straight onto the coals.
Don’t bury the little metal pouch of veggies since it can get too hot to touch, and you might not even find it if it’s too dark. This method is great for potatoes and carrots.
Top veggies
Here’s how you can cook some of these top favorites while you’re camping:
Carrots
Carrots aren’t the trickiest vegetable to cook, but they take much longer than you’d expect. Cut your carrots into slices and flavor them with a little bit of salt, pepper, and oil. Take care when selecting its seasonings and herbs since they’re already quite flavorful on their own.
Potatoes
Potatoes can take more than 90 minutes to be properly done. If you’re sure you want to bake a whole potato, prick it all over and rub on some salt and oil before wrapping it in foil. Rest the little ball on the embers and wait for it to soften. You can also dice or slice it to ensure faster cooking and add flavor with some oil-based salad dressing, or butter if you’re using a slow-cooking method.
Brussels sprouts
Brussels sprouts need to be exposed to be properly cooked—cut the ends off and slice the sprouts in half before placing the pieces on some foil and cooking them over a grate for around 30 minutes. You can also roast them in a Dutch oven with some onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and oil. A sweet balsamic vinaigrette can also bring out their delicious flavor.
Get a cast Dutch oven for more versatility while cooking
Cast iron Dutch ovens are the perfect pot to cook anything! Its thick base and walls ensure slow and even cooking, meaning that your food will be perfectly cooked on the inside without getting burned. They’re perfect for retaining heat and making slow-cooking recipes such as hearty stews with some delicious vegetables.
Take a look at CampMaid’s cast iron dutch oven set! Our wide assortment of high-quality Camp Kitchen Equipment is the perfect choice for cooking some yummy veggies in the great outdoors.
Contact us for more details about our outdoor cooking essentials.
Your Complete Guide To Cooking Veggies While Camping
Going on a camping trip doesn’t mean you have to live off bland packaged food! Here’s how you can make some delicious veggies while camping.
Are you planning a trip with your friends to camp underneath the stars for the weekend? Or do you want to go on a cute little picnic with your loved ones without getting assaulted by insects as soon as you break open the food? As much as we appreciate insects for keeping the ecosystem in balance, we really need them to stay away from our pasta salad and soda cans.
Here’s how you can enjoy your meals outdoors in peace:
Get a net
The ideal setup for keeping away flying bugs is to dine under the canopy of a large mosquito net. It’s pretty, breathable, and keeps the bugs firmly out of your personal space. While it may seem impractical, tabletop net food covers are easily available in the market in super-cute designs. The weighted corners make sure that the net doesn’t fly away and allow the flies to attack your meal.
Store your drinks away
A bowl of punch or an open can of soda probably looks like an extremely inviting swimming pools to most bugs. They might drown soon after entering, but the fear of death doesn’t deter them. Keep your cold drinks or cocktails out of sight in a cooler or enamel dispenser so the bugs won’t even notice that they’re there.
Smoke the bugs out
Bugs really don’t like smoke—perhaps it confuses them into buzzing off or makes them think that there’s some sort of danger. Either way, smoking your area up is great for clearing the air of flying bugs, however, it’s not the best option for people who may have breathing problems or asthma.
Get your hands on citronella
While citronella isn’t as effective as other chemical solutions for killing or repelling mosquitoes, this lemongrass cousin is great for staying safe from bites at mealtime. Get an incense-style coil or candle to release the mosquito deterring oil into the air while perfuming your party at the same time.
Save those orange peels
Mosquitoes really hate citrus peels, making them a cheap and easy way to ward off flying bugs while you try to enjoy your mealtime. Save some peels from your orange snack or lemonade and scatter them along your tabletop as a pretty, rustic centerpiece that keeps bugs away. You can even rub them all over the exposed areas of your skin to stay bite-free.
Get a cast iron Dutch oven
Cover your dishes with a cast iron lid to shut the door on bugs—while they might still come knocking; they won’t be able to get in. Cook your food in a high-quality cast iron tools for camping such as campmaid dutch oven! It has a tight lid and an oven stand that can keep insects away from your food after you’re done cooking. Simply scoop out a few servings and shut it tight before anything can get in!
We have a wide variety of camp kitchen equipment for campers and hikers that make it easier to cook and eat delicious foods while enjoying your time in nature.
Contact us for more details.
Are you planning a trip with your friends to camp underneath the stars for the weekend? Or do you want to go on a cute little picnic with your loved ones without getting assaulted by insects as soon as you break open the food? As much as we appreciate insects for keeping the ecosystem in balance, we really need them to stay away from our pasta salad and soda cans.
Here’s how you can enjoy your meals outdoors in peace:
Get a net
The ideal setup for keeping away flying bugs is to dine under the canopy of a large mosquito net. It’s pretty, breathable, and keeps the bugs firmly out of your personal space. While it may seem impractical, tabletop net food covers are easily available in the market in super-cute designs. The weighted corners make sure that the net doesn’t fly away and allow the flies to attack your meal.
Store your drinks away
A bowl of punch or an open can of soda probably looks like an extremely inviting swimming pools to most bugs. They might drown soon after entering, but the fear of death doesn’t deter them. Keep your cold drinks or cocktails out of sight in a cooler or enamel dispenser so the bugs won’t even notice that they’re there.
Smoke the bugs out
Bugs really don’t like smoke—perhaps it confuses them into buzzing off or makes them think that there’s some sort of danger. Either way, smoking your area up is great for clearing the air of flying bugs, however, it’s not the best option for people who may have breathing problems or asthma.
Get your hands on citronella
While citronella isn’t as effective as other chemical solutions for killing or repelling mosquitoes, this lemongrass cousin is great for staying safe from bites at mealtime. Get an incense-style coil or candle to release the mosquito deterring oil into the air while perfuming your party at the same time.
Save those orange peels
Mosquitoes really hate citrus peels, making them a cheap and easy way to ward off flying bugs while you try to enjoy your mealtime. Save some peels from your orange snack or lemonade and scatter them along your tabletop as a pretty, rustic centerpiece that keeps bugs away. You can even rub them all over the exposed areas of your skin to stay bite-free.
Get a cast iron Dutch oven
Cover your dishes with a cast iron lid to shut the door on bugs—while they might still come knocking; they won’t be able to get in. Cook your food in a high-quality cast iron tools for camping such as campmaid dutch oven! It has a tight lid and an oven stand that can keep insects away from your food after you’re done cooking. Simply scoop out a few servings and shut it tight before anything can get in!
We have a wide variety of camp kitchen equipment for campers and hikers that make it easier to cook and eat delicious foods while enjoying your time in nature.
Contact us for more details.
How To Make Any Outdoor Meal A Bug-Free Zone
Dining outdoors is a great experience, especially when you’re out camping and connecting with nature. However, bugs can make the experience a bit frustrating.
Getting good food while camping can be challenging for many people who aren’t used to proper camping cooking equipment and methods. Everyone wants to enjoy a hot meal after spending their entire day outdoors hiking, fishing, or simply frolicking in nature.
Here’s how you can keep your food warm without electricity while everyone gets ready for dinner:
Use towels and aluminum foil
One of the easiest ways that you can keep your food warm after it’s done cooking is to put it in a container and wrap it with multiple layers of aluminum foil before wrapping it further in a spare towel or cloth.
The foil helps traps steam, retaining the heat and keeping your food warm by reflecting heat radiation back towards the food. Towels are also great insulators and prevent the hot air from escaping outside! The combination of a few layers of towels and oil can keep your food warm for multiple hours, depending on how hot and dense it is.
Use a cooler
While the name might make it seem like it’ll do the opposite of keeping your food warm, coolers are actually great for maintaining the temperature of your food since the same insulation that keeps the heat out can also keep the heat in.
You can further enhance its productivity by wrapping your food in foil or lining the inside of the cooler with foil if there’s a lot of food. You can even preheat the cooler and add hot water bottles or bricks to keep your food hot for multiple hours.
Get an insulated thermos
If you’ve got small amounts of food that you need to keep hot for hours, an insulated thermos is your best bet. Whether it’s last night’s leftovers or some soup that you want to eat later, store it into these double-walled stainless-steel bottles to keep it fresh. A vacuum between the inner and outer walls can help keep your food hot for up to 6 hours, depending on its quality and the initial temperature of your food.
Use high-quality outdoor cookware
Cooking in a cheap camping pot might sound like an absolute steal, but you’ll notice the difference soon enough. Low-quality materials tend to lose their heat rather fast, letting your food go cold within the hour. Cast iron cookware is great at retaining heat, keeping your food warm long after you’re done cooking.
Get CampMaid’s Dutch oven lid lifter and holder
Additional camp cooking tools that can keep your food warm are CampMaid’s charcoal holder & cast iron grill accessories that are perfect for keeping your food warm while you check on your food. Simply clamp the lid holder onto the lid to keep the coals in place as you lift it and put it back on! It can also act as a serving stand with the coals keeping your food warm as people grab a serving.
We’re an online store for the best Camp Kitchen Equipment for hikers and campers and also have complete Dutch Oven Tools Set online that are perfect for taking along on your next trip to enjoy some fresh and delicious food out in the wild!
Contact us for more details.
Getting good food while camping can be challenging for many people who aren’t used to proper camping cooking equipment and methods. Everyone wants to enjoy a hot meal after spending their entire day outdoors hiking, fishing, or simply frolicking in nature.
Here’s how you can keep your food warm without electricity while everyone gets ready for dinner:
Use towels and aluminum foil
One of the easiest ways that you can keep your food warm after it’s done cooking is to put it in a container and wrap it with multiple layers of aluminum foil before wrapping it further in a spare towel or cloth.
The foil helps traps steam, retaining the heat and keeping your food warm by reflecting heat radiation back towards the food. Towels are also great insulators and prevent the hot air from escaping outside! The combination of a few layers of towels and oil can keep your food warm for multiple hours, depending on how hot and dense it is.
Use a cooler
While the name might make it seem like it’ll do the opposite of keeping your food warm, coolers are actually great for maintaining the temperature of your food since the same insulation that keeps the heat out can also keep the heat in.
You can further enhance its productivity by wrapping your food in foil or lining the inside of the cooler with foil if there’s a lot of food. You can even preheat the cooler and add hot water bottles or bricks to keep your food hot for multiple hours.
Get an insulated thermos
If you’ve got small amounts of food that you need to keep hot for hours, an insulated thermos is your best bet. Whether it’s last night’s leftovers or some soup that you want to eat later, store it into these double-walled stainless-steel bottles to keep it fresh. A vacuum between the inner and outer walls can help keep your food hot for up to 6 hours, depending on its quality and the initial temperature of your food.
Use high-quality outdoor cookware
Cooking in a cheap camping pot might sound like an absolute steal, but you’ll notice the difference soon enough. Low-quality materials tend to lose their heat rather fast, letting your food go cold within the hour. Cast iron cookware is great at retaining heat, keeping your food warm long after you’re done cooking.
Get CampMaid’s Dutch oven lid lifter and holder
Additional camp cooking tools that can keep your food warm are CampMaid’s charcoal holder & cast iron grill accessories that are perfect for keeping your food warm while you check on your food. Simply clamp the lid holder onto the lid to keep the coals in place as you lift it and put it back on! It can also act as a serving stand with the coals keeping your food warm as people grab a serving.
We’re an online store for the best Camp Kitchen Equipment for hikers and campers and also have complete Dutch Oven Tools Set online that are perfect for taking along on your next trip to enjoy some fresh and delicious food out in the wild!
Contact us for more details.
5 Best Tips To Keep Food Warm While Camping
Nothing beats the satisfaction of taking a hot bite of food after a long day outdoors. Here’s how to keep your food warm while camping!
New campers often tend to find a sense of security in their campfire when they hear rustling around their campsite, but what exactly is it doing for you regarding the wildlife? Campfires can usually repel any unwanted visits by the local wildlife, but some, like lizards, snakes, raccoons, or bears, can sometimes ignore it completely or get attracted to it. An animal’s reaction to a campfire will depend largely on whether or not they have rabies, as well as their species.
Here’s all you need to know about animals and campfires:
Wild animals that get repelled by campfires
Many different species of wildlife can get deterred by campfires, such as rats, squirrels, skunks, coyotes, wolves, and feral dogs. Canids such as coyotes and wolves usually avoid humans, especially if they’re by themselves. However, the presence of a pack and intense hunger can empower them into making contact.
Nocturnal species usually find the light of a campfire to be too uncomfortable for their eyes—it can hamper their vision or cause them pain. Insects also get repelled by campfires due to the smoke, but depending on the bug species in your campsite, you might have to create a lot of smoke or sit very close to the fire.
Wild animals that don’t get repelled by campfires
One of the biggest concerns that campers have is encountering a bear. Bears don’t get repelled by simple campfires, and many will instead use it as a beacon to wander into your camp. However, most bears are usually just curious and are scavenging for food amongst your storage.
Raccoons are also incredibly fearless and are used to living off of garbage and food wastes around humans, so they’re comfortable near the light. Campfires can sometimes even attract snakes and lizards that are looking for a place to warm up and might hide in sleeping bags or shoes as an unwelcome surprise.
What attracts the wild animals?
Animals use their noses to find food—sustenance is every animal’s main goal, which means that they’ll stake out territory and investigate any animal and human markings. Somethings that can attract wildlife attention include:
- Urine or excrement: Animals like mountain lions and bears get attracted to the scent of urine and other excrements—stay cautious and go at least 100 yards away from your camp to take care of any bathroom needs.
- Food-related trash: Disposing of your food-related trash the wrong way can encourage wild animals to raid your camp. Get an odor-proof bag to dispose of any items with food-related scents.
- Cooking: Nothing can get an animal’s attention quite like cooking—the myriad of scents is likely to attract hungry animals. Try to cook some distance away from your main camp to reduce any chances of encountering wild animals.
How to keep animals away from your food?
One of the best cast iron camp kitchen equipment that you can use while cooking is CampMaid’s Dutch oven tools set like the Lid Holder & Serving Stand, which keeps your food covered while it’s cooking, and even after you’re done, so that your leftovers are safe from any hungry wildlife. It also helps you keep coal on top of the lid to deter curious animals or insects from inspecting the contents.
Our state-of-the-art Camping Grill Set for Outdoor Cooking can help you create delicious dishes that can elevate your camping experience. They’re super easy to clean and store away, so you won’t have to worry about lingering scents of food. Take a look at our best cast iron dutch oven set online today!
Contact us for more details.
New campers often tend to find a sense of security in their campfire when they hear rustling around their campsite, but what exactly is it doing for you regarding the wildlife? Campfires can usually repel any unwanted visits by the local wildlife, but some, like lizards, snakes, raccoons, or bears, can sometimes ignore it completely or get attracted to it. An animal’s reaction to a campfire will depend largely on whether or not they have rabies, as well as their species.
Here’s all you need to know about animals and campfires:
Wild animals that get repelled by campfires
Many different species of wildlife can get deterred by campfires, such as rats, squirrels, skunks, coyotes, wolves, and feral dogs. Canids such as coyotes and wolves usually avoid humans, especially if they’re by themselves. However, the presence of a pack and intense hunger can empower them into making contact.
Nocturnal species usually find the light of a campfire to be too uncomfortable for their eyes—it can hamper their vision or cause them pain. Insects also get repelled by campfires due to the smoke, but depending on the bug species in your campsite, you might have to create a lot of smoke or sit very close to the fire.
Wild animals that don’t get repelled by campfires
One of the biggest concerns that campers have is encountering a bear. Bears don’t get repelled by simple campfires, and many will instead use it as a beacon to wander into your camp. However, most bears are usually just curious and are scavenging for food amongst your storage.
Raccoons are also incredibly fearless and are used to living off of garbage and food wastes around humans, so they’re comfortable near the light. Campfires can sometimes even attract snakes and lizards that are looking for a place to warm up and might hide in sleeping bags or shoes as an unwelcome surprise.
What attracts the wild animals?
Animals use their noses to find food—sustenance is every animal’s main goal, which means that they’ll stake out territory and investigate any animal and human markings. Somethings that can attract wildlife attention include:
- Urine or excrement: Animals like mountain lions and bears get attracted to the scent of urine and other excrements—stay cautious and go at least 100 yards away from your camp to take care of any bathroom needs.
- Food-related trash: Disposing of your food-related trash the wrong way can encourage wild animals to raid your camp. Get an odor-proof bag to dispose of any items with food-related scents.
- Cooking: Nothing can get an animal’s attention quite like cooking—the myriad of scents is likely to attract hungry animals. Try to cook some distance away from your main camp to reduce any chances of encountering wild animals.
How to keep animals away from your food?
One of the best cast iron camp kitchen equipment that you can use while cooking is CampMaid’s Dutch oven tools set like the Lid Holder & Serving Stand, which keeps your food covered while it’s cooking, and even after you’re done, so that your leftovers are safe from any hungry wildlife. It also helps you keep coal on top of the lid to deter curious animals or insects from inspecting the contents.
Our state-of-the-art Camping Grill Set for Outdoor Cooking can help you create delicious dishes that can elevate your camping experience. They’re super easy to clean and store away, so you won’t have to worry about lingering scents of food. Take a look at our best cast iron dutch oven set online today!
Contact us for more details.
Do Campfires Attract Or Repel Wild Animals?
Listening to the rustling around your campsite can be scary. Is your campfire really keeping wild animals away? Here’s all you need to know.
With the wide variety of kitchenware available in the market, you might feel overwhelmed when you go shopping for simple equipment to make dinner while camping. While there are ever-changing product displays at adventure stores, a tried-and-true cast iron Dutch oven can never be beaten.
Certain forms of Dutch ovens have been around for many years and have only risen in popularity as time goes by. Here’s all you need to know before investing in this essential cast iron camping tool:
What is a Dutch oven?
A Dutch oven is a wide and relatively shallow pot that’s tightly fitted with a lid that helps it retain heat. The pot also consists of thick walls that maintain its internal temperature. These excellent qualities make it amazing for simmering, baking, roasting, braising, or browning your food. The addition of handles on either side of the pot makes it easier to lift and carry as well.
They’re heat resistant
Most Dutch ovens have a heat resistance ranging from 335 to 500 F, but you can also find our seasoned cast iron Dutch ovens, which have a heat resistance of up to 700 F, making it perfect for cooking over an open fire where you don’t have much control over the heat. This ensures even cooking all around!
They’re perfect for outdoor cooking
Due to their high level of heat resistance, cast iron Dutch ovens are perfect for outdoor cooking while camping or hiking. It’s a super-relaxing way of cooking outdoors and is especially loved by people who like to cook even while camping. Its versatility allows for a large degree of creativity, so you can adapt any of your favorite recipes for a Dutch oven and even make things that you otherwise wouldn’t be able to while spending time in the great outdoors, such as bread or slow-cooked stews.
Food cooked in a Dutch oven is healthier
Depending on the application, you can make healthier meals using a camp Dutch oven. Dutch ovens allow the flavors to develop and intermingle so you won’t need as much butter or oil to add richness and taste. The airtight lid also prevents nutrients from evaporating, helping your food retain its precious minerals and vitamins while slow cooking your dish.
How to clean and care for your Dutch oven
Just like other cast-iron pans, a cast-iron Dutch oven needs to be seasoned before you take them on your camping journey. Spread some vegetable oil over the pot and lid using a paper towel, and bake it for an hour at 400 F before letting it cool for 30 minutes and removing it. This helps you create a non-stick surface and prevent rust.
You can find pre-seasoned Dutch ovens in our collection as well!
Find the best Dutch oven sets online!
Cooking with a cast iron dutch oven set has never been easier with the help of CampMaid! We’re an online store that specializes in designing and selling camp kitchen equipment such as the CampMaid Lid Lifter, CampMaid Charcoal Holder and other cast iron grill accessories. We also have pre-seasoned cast iron Dutch ovens in a variety of sizes that can fit your every need, whether you’re out camping or in the kitchen. You can even find delicious recipes that are perfect for trying out in your Dutch oven!
Contact us for more details today!
With the wide variety of kitchenware available in the market, you might feel overwhelmed when you go shopping for simple equipment to make dinner while camping. While there are ever-changing product displays at adventure stores, a tried-and-true cast iron Dutch oven can never be beaten.
Certain forms of Dutch ovens have been around for many years and have only risen in popularity as time goes by. Here’s all you need to know before investing in this essential cast iron camping tool:
What is a Dutch oven?
A Dutch oven is a wide and relatively shallow pot that’s tightly fitted with a lid that helps it retain heat. The pot also consists of thick walls that maintain its internal temperature. These excellent qualities make it amazing for simmering, baking, roasting, braising, or browning your food. The addition of handles on either side of the pot makes it easier to lift and carry as well.
They’re heat resistant
Most Dutch ovens have a heat resistance ranging from 335 to 500 F, but you can also find our seasoned cast iron Dutch ovens, which have a heat resistance of up to 700 F, making it perfect for cooking over an open fire where you don’t have much control over the heat. This ensures even cooking all around!
They’re perfect for outdoor cooking
Due to their high level of heat resistance, cast iron Dutch ovens are perfect for outdoor cooking while camping or hiking. It’s a super-relaxing way of cooking outdoors and is especially loved by people who like to cook even while camping. Its versatility allows for a large degree of creativity, so you can adapt any of your favorite recipes for a Dutch oven and even make things that you otherwise wouldn’t be able to while spending time in the great outdoors, such as bread or slow-cooked stews.
Food cooked in a Dutch oven is healthier
Depending on the application, you can make healthier meals using a camp Dutch oven. Dutch ovens allow the flavors to develop and intermingle so you won’t need as much butter or oil to add richness and taste. The airtight lid also prevents nutrients from evaporating, helping your food retain its precious minerals and vitamins while slow cooking your dish.
How to clean and care for your Dutch oven
Just like other cast-iron pans, a cast-iron Dutch oven needs to be seasoned before you take them on your camping journey. Spread some vegetable oil over the pot and lid using a paper towel, and bake it for an hour at 400 F before letting it cool for 30 minutes and removing it. This helps you create a non-stick surface and prevent rust.
You can find pre-seasoned Dutch ovens in our collection as well!
Find the best Dutch oven sets online!
Cooking with a cast iron dutch oven set has never been easier with the help of CampMaid! We’re an online store that specializes in designing and selling camp kitchen equipment such as the CampMaid Lid Lifter, CampMaid Charcoal Holder and other cast iron grill accessories. We also have pre-seasoned cast iron Dutch ovens in a variety of sizes that can fit your every need, whether you’re out camping or in the kitchen. You can even find delicious recipes that are perfect for trying out in your Dutch oven!
Contact us for more details today!
Why You Should Consider Investing In A Dutch Oven
Cast Dutch ovens deserve a place in everyone’s kitchen. They’re incredibly versatile and useful for a multitude of applications. Here’s why you should get one!
+Recent Articles
- How To Season A New Cast Iron Dutch Oven For The First Time
- Reasons To Go Camping
- Essential Tools For A Camping Trip
- Your Complete Guide To Cooking Veggies While Camping
- How To Make Any Outdoor Meal A Bug-Free Zone
- 5 Best Tips To Keep Food Warm While Camping
- Urine or excrement: Animals like mountain lions and bears get attracted to the scent of urine and other excrements—stay cautious and go at least 100 yards away from your camp to take care of any bathroom needs.
- Food-related trash: Disposing of your food-related trash the wrong way can encourage wild animals to raid your camp. Get an odor-proof bag to dispose of any items with food-related scents.
- Cooking: Nothing can get an animal’s attention quite like cooking—the myriad of scents is likely to attract hungry animals. Try to cook some distance away from your main camp to reduce any chances of encountering wild animals.
- Do Campfires Attract Or Repel Wild Animals?
- Why You Should Consider Investing In A Dutch Oven
Dutch ovens are a perennial favorite for several reasons. They're great heat conductors, and the durable construction from solid cast iron lasts for years to come. It's safe to say they're cherished heirlooms for camper families. Most cast iron dutch oven set today arrive pre-seasoned, with standards of pre-seasoning varying from manufacturer to manufacturer or brand to brand.
However, a little TLC from time to time will have them looking good as new and ready for mouthwatering Dutch oven recipes amidst the mesmerizing outdoors. Here's a quick guide for seasoning cast-iron Dutch ovens to prolong their life. But first, what does it mean to season Dutch ovens? Let's find out.
Dutch Oven Seasoning: All You Need to Know
Seasoning Dutch ovens refers to the process of adhering oil to prevent rust, protect the cast-iron material, and create a non-stick surface. Seasoning is important, even before the first use, as it helps remove any residual contaminants from the factory.
Without the additional layer, the Dutch oven will remain exposed to water, oxygen, and vapor, all of which are a perfect recipe for rust spots. With continued use, the coating of your Dutch oven will become reinforced, helping make the cooking process better each time. Thus, for a seamless cooking experience, every time you go camping with your loved ones, make sure to season the Dutch oven once it arrives.
How to Season or Re-Season Cast-Iron Dutch Ovens?
The surface of your Dutch oven is likely to improve over time when you cook food with oil. However, sometimes the coating can rust, deteriorate, or lose its non-stick qualities. Acidic ingredients are quite harsh on cast iron.
If your Dutch oven is rusty, you might need to strip it completely with special cleaners before beginning the seasoning process all over. If it's new or in good condition, it'll just need a refresh. You still need to ensure it's free of any leftover baked-on food by scrubbing it thoroughly with hot water. If you need to use soap, make sure it's a mild one. Towel dry it, and then begin your seasoning journey by following the steps below.
Step 1 – Oil Rub
Picking out the right oil for your Dutch oven seasoning is important. Once the pan is cooled down and completely dried, rub a few drops of lard or vegetable oil into the pot with a paper towel. If the surface absorbs the oil quickly, add in more until the surface changes color and has a shine to it without any leftover dry areas. The goal is to coat the entire pot with the sides, bottom, top, and handle completely covered in a thin layer of oil. However, make sure to wipe out any excess because any extra oil lingering on the pot can make it sticky during and after the heating process. Your pan should look nearly dry once you've completed this step.
Step 2 – Bake
Once you've covered the pot in oil, place the cast-iron Dutch oven upside down on your oven's middle rack and turn the heat on to 400F. Make sure you keep an aluminum foil sheet on the bottom rack to catch possible drips. Bake your pot for up to an hour.
Step 3 – Cool
Let the pot cool down once you turn the oven off but close the oven door. Be patient because this could take a while. Remove the pot once it has completely cooled off. You'll need to repeat the steps a couple of times until your Dutch oven become non-stick and glossy.
Pro Tip: Regularly seasoning your cast iron will keep it free from rust and in great shape for years to come. However, you should avoid storing them in cabinets or places with high moisture levels. We suggest getting a proper tool bag for the cast iron accessories and Dutch Oven Tools Set. It makes it safe, easier to store, and convenient to carry whenever you feel like setting out for a camping trip.
Everyone who cooks with cast-iron Dutch ovens on their camping trips grows to love and cherish the versatile outdoor cooking equipment. Seasoning is just part of the process, but it could easily become a fun activity once you're familiar with its unique charm.
Once your Dutch oven is revitalized, it will soon be ready for creative breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and dessert recipes. Check out our range of cast-iron accessories such as charcoal holders, collapsible charcoal chimneys, kickstands, heat-resistant gloves, portable charcoal grills, lid lifters, and more. You can also order separate Dutch ovens or complete Dutch oven sets to make things easier on your next camping trip.
Reach out to place an order! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube channel to learn more about using CampMaid equipment or staying updated about our innovative outdoor cooking solutions.
Head into the mountains, woods in a national park, or wilderness lands for a relaxing camping trip.
Going camping is an exciting idea. However, sometimes you might forget to pack some super-important items.
Vegetables are easy to cook both on or in a campfire—the key to getting the perfectly cooked vegetables are coverage and timing. Depending on what you’re cooking for your campsite meal, you’re going to have to put the veggies on the fire before the chicken, fish, steak, or any other meat.
Vegetables such as carrots, brussels sprouts, potatoes, and corn on the cob take a long time to cook, while others such as broccoli or onion need less time on the fire. Peas, mushrooms, zucchini, and other soft vegetables require the least amount of time. Due to the difference in cooking times, it’s important to separate your veggies and meat when cooking over a campfire.
Prep your veggies
You shouldn’t wait till the last moment to slice your veggies up and get them ready for the campfire. Julienne, dice, slice, or shop your veggies beforehand, and even take your preparation a step further to create some well-seasoned foil pouches and put them in the cooler. Make sure to take them out around an hour before cooking so that they reach room temperature and cook in a more uniform manner.
Use a bed of coals
You’ll need to have a fire that can burn long enough to make a hot bed of coals for this method. this is one of the best conditions to cook your food in, since the heat is more consistent, and the fire isn’t raging out of control. Keep stirring up the coals to even the heat out, wrap your veggies in foil, and place them straight onto the coals.
Don’t bury the little metal pouch of veggies since it can get too hot to touch, and you might not even find it if it’s too dark. This method is great for potatoes and carrots.
Top veggies
Here’s how you can cook some of these top favorites while you’re camping:
Carrots
Carrots aren’t the trickiest vegetable to cook, but they take much longer than you’d expect. Cut your carrots into slices and flavor them with a little bit of salt, pepper, and oil. Take care when selecting its seasonings and herbs since they’re already quite flavorful on their own.
Potatoes
Potatoes can take more than 90 minutes to be properly done. If you’re sure you want to bake a whole potato, prick it all over and rub on some salt and oil before wrapping it in foil. Rest the little ball on the embers and wait for it to soften. You can also dice or slice it to ensure faster cooking and add flavor with some oil-based salad dressing, or butter if you’re using a slow-cooking method.
Brussels sprouts
Brussels sprouts need to be exposed to be properly cooked—cut the ends off and slice the sprouts in half before placing the pieces on some foil and cooking them over a grate for around 30 minutes. You can also roast them in a Dutch oven with some onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and oil. A sweet balsamic vinaigrette can also bring out their delicious flavor.
Get a cast Dutch oven for more versatility while cooking
Cast iron Dutch ovens are the perfect pot to cook anything! Its thick base and walls ensure slow and even cooking, meaning that your food will be perfectly cooked on the inside without getting burned. They’re perfect for retaining heat and making slow-cooking recipes such as hearty stews with some delicious vegetables.
Take a look at CampMaid’s cast iron dutch oven set! Our wide assortment of high-quality Camp Kitchen Equipment is the perfect choice for cooking some yummy veggies in the great outdoors.
Contact us for more details about our outdoor cooking essentials.
Are you planning a trip with your friends to camp underneath the stars for the weekend? Or do you want to go on a cute little picnic with your loved ones without getting assaulted by insects as soon as you break open the food? As much as we appreciate insects for keeping the ecosystem in balance, we really need them to stay away from our pasta salad and soda cans.
Here’s how you can enjoy your meals outdoors in peace:
Get a net
The ideal setup for keeping away flying bugs is to dine under the canopy of a large mosquito net. It’s pretty, breathable, and keeps the bugs firmly out of your personal space. While it may seem impractical, tabletop net food covers are easily available in the market in super-cute designs. The weighted corners make sure that the net doesn’t fly away and allow the flies to attack your meal.
Store your drinks away
A bowl of punch or an open can of soda probably looks like an extremely inviting swimming pools to most bugs. They might drown soon after entering, but the fear of death doesn’t deter them. Keep your cold drinks or cocktails out of sight in a cooler or enamel dispenser so the bugs won’t even notice that they’re there.
Smoke the bugs out
Bugs really don’t like smoke—perhaps it confuses them into buzzing off or makes them think that there’s some sort of danger. Either way, smoking your area up is great for clearing the air of flying bugs, however, it’s not the best option for people who may have breathing problems or asthma.
Get your hands on citronella
While citronella isn’t as effective as other chemical solutions for killing or repelling mosquitoes, this lemongrass cousin is great for staying safe from bites at mealtime. Get an incense-style coil or candle to release the mosquito deterring oil into the air while perfuming your party at the same time.
Save those orange peels
Mosquitoes really hate citrus peels, making them a cheap and easy way to ward off flying bugs while you try to enjoy your mealtime. Save some peels from your orange snack or lemonade and scatter them along your tabletop as a pretty, rustic centerpiece that keeps bugs away. You can even rub them all over the exposed areas of your skin to stay bite-free.
Get a cast iron Dutch oven
Cover your dishes with a cast iron lid to shut the door on bugs—while they might still come knocking; they won’t be able to get in. Cook your food in a high-quality cast iron tools for camping such as campmaid dutch oven! It has a tight lid and an oven stand that can keep insects away from your food after you’re done cooking. Simply scoop out a few servings and shut it tight before anything can get in!
We have a wide variety of camp kitchen equipment for campers and hikers that make it easier to cook and eat delicious foods while enjoying your time in nature.
Contact us for more details.
Getting good food while camping can be challenging for many people who aren’t used to proper camping cooking equipment and methods. Everyone wants to enjoy a hot meal after spending their entire day outdoors hiking, fishing, or simply frolicking in nature.
Here’s how you can keep your food warm without electricity while everyone gets ready for dinner:
Use towels and aluminum foil
One of the easiest ways that you can keep your food warm after it’s done cooking is to put it in a container and wrap it with multiple layers of aluminum foil before wrapping it further in a spare towel or cloth.
The foil helps traps steam, retaining the heat and keeping your food warm by reflecting heat radiation back towards the food. Towels are also great insulators and prevent the hot air from escaping outside! The combination of a few layers of towels and oil can keep your food warm for multiple hours, depending on how hot and dense it is.
Use a cooler
While the name might make it seem like it’ll do the opposite of keeping your food warm, coolers are actually great for maintaining the temperature of your food since the same insulation that keeps the heat out can also keep the heat in.
You can further enhance its productivity by wrapping your food in foil or lining the inside of the cooler with foil if there’s a lot of food. You can even preheat the cooler and add hot water bottles or bricks to keep your food hot for multiple hours.
Get an insulated thermos
If you’ve got small amounts of food that you need to keep hot for hours, an insulated thermos is your best bet. Whether it’s last night’s leftovers or some soup that you want to eat later, store it into these double-walled stainless-steel bottles to keep it fresh. A vacuum between the inner and outer walls can help keep your food hot for up to 6 hours, depending on its quality and the initial temperature of your food.
Use high-quality outdoor cookware
Cooking in a cheap camping pot might sound like an absolute steal, but you’ll notice the difference soon enough. Low-quality materials tend to lose their heat rather fast, letting your food go cold within the hour. Cast iron cookware is great at retaining heat, keeping your food warm long after you’re done cooking.
Get CampMaid’s Dutch oven lid lifter and holder
Additional camp cooking tools that can keep your food warm are CampMaid’s charcoal holder & cast iron grill accessories that are perfect for keeping your food warm while you check on your food. Simply clamp the lid holder onto the lid to keep the coals in place as you lift it and put it back on! It can also act as a serving stand with the coals keeping your food warm as people grab a serving.
We’re an online store for the best Camp Kitchen Equipment for hikers and campers and also have complete Dutch Oven Tools Set online that are perfect for taking along on your next trip to enjoy some fresh and delicious food out in the wild!
Contact us for more details.
New campers often tend to find a sense of security in their campfire when they hear rustling around their campsite, but what exactly is it doing for you regarding the wildlife? Campfires can usually repel any unwanted visits by the local wildlife, but some, like lizards, snakes, raccoons, or bears, can sometimes ignore it completely or get attracted to it. An animal’s reaction to a campfire will depend largely on whether or not they have rabies, as well as their species.
Here’s all you need to know about animals and campfires:
Wild animals that get repelled by campfires
Many different species of wildlife can get deterred by campfires, such as rats, squirrels, skunks, coyotes, wolves, and feral dogs. Canids such as coyotes and wolves usually avoid humans, especially if they’re by themselves. However, the presence of a pack and intense hunger can empower them into making contact.
Nocturnal species usually find the light of a campfire to be too uncomfortable for their eyes—it can hamper their vision or cause them pain. Insects also get repelled by campfires due to the smoke, but depending on the bug species in your campsite, you might have to create a lot of smoke or sit very close to the fire.
Wild animals that don’t get repelled by campfires
One of the biggest concerns that campers have is encountering a bear. Bears don’t get repelled by simple campfires, and many will instead use it as a beacon to wander into your camp. However, most bears are usually just curious and are scavenging for food amongst your storage.
Raccoons are also incredibly fearless and are used to living off of garbage and food wastes around humans, so they’re comfortable near the light. Campfires can sometimes even attract snakes and lizards that are looking for a place to warm up and might hide in sleeping bags or shoes as an unwelcome surprise.
What attracts the wild animals?
Animals use their noses to find food—sustenance is every animal’s main goal, which means that they’ll stake out territory and investigate any animal and human markings. Somethings that can attract wildlife attention include:
How to keep animals away from your food?
One of the best cast iron camp kitchen equipment that you can use while cooking is CampMaid’s Dutch oven tools set like the Lid Holder & Serving Stand, which keeps your food covered while it’s cooking, and even after you’re done, so that your leftovers are safe from any hungry wildlife. It also helps you keep coal on top of the lid to deter curious animals or insects from inspecting the contents.
Our state-of-the-art Camping Grill Set for Outdoor Cooking can help you create delicious dishes that can elevate your camping experience. They’re super easy to clean and store away, so you won’t have to worry about lingering scents of food. Take a look at our best cast iron dutch oven set online today!
Contact us for more details.
With the wide variety of kitchenware available in the market, you might feel overwhelmed when you go shopping for simple equipment to make dinner while camping. While there are ever-changing product displays at adventure stores, a tried-and-true cast iron Dutch oven can never be beaten.
Certain forms of Dutch ovens have been around for many years and have only risen in popularity as time goes by. Here’s all you need to know before investing in this essential cast iron camping tool:
What is a Dutch oven?
A Dutch oven is a wide and relatively shallow pot that’s tightly fitted with a lid that helps it retain heat. The pot also consists of thick walls that maintain its internal temperature. These excellent qualities make it amazing for simmering, baking, roasting, braising, or browning your food. The addition of handles on either side of the pot makes it easier to lift and carry as well.
They’re heat resistant
Most Dutch ovens have a heat resistance ranging from 335 to 500 F, but you can also find our seasoned cast iron Dutch ovens, which have a heat resistance of up to 700 F, making it perfect for cooking over an open fire where you don’t have much control over the heat. This ensures even cooking all around!
They’re perfect for outdoor cooking
Due to their high level of heat resistance, cast iron Dutch ovens are perfect for outdoor cooking while camping or hiking. It’s a super-relaxing way of cooking outdoors and is especially loved by people who like to cook even while camping. Its versatility allows for a large degree of creativity, so you can adapt any of your favorite recipes for a Dutch oven and even make things that you otherwise wouldn’t be able to while spending time in the great outdoors, such as bread or slow-cooked stews.
Food cooked in a Dutch oven is healthier
Depending on the application, you can make healthier meals using a camp Dutch oven. Dutch ovens allow the flavors to develop and intermingle so you won’t need as much butter or oil to add richness and taste. The airtight lid also prevents nutrients from evaporating, helping your food retain its precious minerals and vitamins while slow cooking your dish.
How to clean and care for your Dutch oven
Just like other cast-iron pans, a cast-iron Dutch oven needs to be seasoned before you take them on your camping journey. Spread some vegetable oil over the pot and lid using a paper towel, and bake it for an hour at 400 F before letting it cool for 30 minutes and removing it. This helps you create a non-stick surface and prevent rust.
You can find pre-seasoned Dutch ovens in our collection as well!
Find the best Dutch oven sets online!
Cooking with a cast iron dutch oven set has never been easier with the help of CampMaid! We’re an online store that specializes in designing and selling camp kitchen equipment such as the CampMaid Lid Lifter, CampMaid Charcoal Holder and other cast iron grill accessories. We also have pre-seasoned cast iron Dutch ovens in a variety of sizes that can fit your every need, whether you’re out camping or in the kitchen. You can even find delicious recipes that are perfect for trying out in your Dutch oven!
Contact us for more details today!