Our easy recipes for dining al fresco
There’s something very special about cooking outside at any time of year, but in autumn it’s just magical. With the leaves falling and the temperatures just that little bit cooler, it’s the perfect opportunity to pack up some goodies and head to your favourite spot for some Al Fresco dining!
Whether you’re spending the night under the stars or are taking some well-deserved quiet time outside, we’ve got some delicious recipes that are so easy to cook outdoors, but will become a firm family favourite too.
Be prepared
Prepare all your vegetables and meats in advance if you have the chance to. It’ll make everything a little simpler if you’re short on space when you’re set up outdoors. Also, decanting herbs and spices into little pots can also be really useful to do beforehand. Of course, that’s not always possible and don’t worry if you don’t have time – you can do everything on site.
Got everything?
The last thing you want to do is carve spoons out of branches or stir your dinner with a stick because you forgot to bring the right kit (unless you’re really going back to basics!). Have yourself a kit list of utensils, cutlery and crockery that you can’t do without.
Safety first
Those handy little camping stoves are for outdoor use only. Whether you’re in a camper, caravan or tent, never use them inside. Besides, it’s never too cold to cook outside and the hot chocolate will soon warm you up.
Now for the fun part…
Cooking anything more than a sausage outside can be a daunting prospect, but you no longer need to fear the outdoor experience. We’ve handpicked some super simple and super tasty recipes that you can make on just a camping stove that’ll impress the whole family, so put on your boots, grab your cosy jumpers and let’s getting cooking.
Spanish inspired pork and chorizo stew
Serves 2
Ingredients
- 500g pork shoulder – chopped into chunks
- 1 red onion – chopped
- 3 cloves garlic – finely chopped
- 200 gr cooking chorizo – chopped into 1cm coins
- 75 ml red wine
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp tomato puree
- 1 red pepper
- 1 can of chopped tomatoes
- 150 ml chicken stock
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp dried chilli flakes (optional)
- 2 bay leaves
- Olive oil
- Salt & black pepper for seasoning
- Crusty bread to serve it with
Method
- 1. Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil and add the pork with a pinch of salt and peppers. Cook until browned and set aside in a bowl. Add a splash of wine and when it sizzles, scrape all the tasty bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon and pour the mix over your browned pork.
- 2. Add the chopped chorizo to the pan and as it begins to release the oil, add the onion and pepper and cook for about 8-10 mins, stirring every so often. Once the onions and pepper are softened, add the garlic and fry for another 2-3 mins. Add the rest of the wine and allow it to bubble for a minute or so. Mix in the smoked paprika, chilli flakes, tomato puree, chopped tomatoes, chicken stock, oregano and the bay leaves.
- 3. Add the pork that you’d set aside earlier with all those delicious juices. Season with salt and pepper. Then let the stew bubble away for 30-40 minutes until pork is cooked nicely tender.
- 4. It’s totally up to you as to what you serve it with, but we think there’s nothing better than fresh crusty bread to mop up all that goodness!
Easy (but luxurious) hot chocolate
Serves 2
Ingredients
- 600ml of whole milk (any milk substitute can be used)
- 100g milk chocolate
- 50g dark chocolate
- Whipped cream and marshmallows (optional)
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Method
- 1. Slowly heat the milk until almost at boiling point. Turn down the heat to a simmer and add the milk and dark chocolate. Continuously stir with a whisk until all the chocolate has melted in and then bring the mix to the boil.
- 2. Once boiled, pour the hot chocolate mixture into two mugs and then you can get creative with your luxurious topping. You can’t go wrong with whipped cream and marshmallows.
- So,there you have it! 2 super easy things you can cook outdoors with the whole family. Now all you have to do is get out there and give it a go.