Ah, the combination of natural surroundings, your family or best buds and the smoky flavour coming from the fire. There aren’t many things as good as fresh whole fish on a campfire. Allow us to give tips and tricks to ensure your campfire cooking is a success.
Choosing the Right Fish
Select a type of fish that’s suitable for campfire cooking. Trout, snapper and mackerel are excellent options, because they hold up well to high heat. You may also look for whole fish online delivery and ask their customer support for recommendations. Just make sure the fish is cleaned and gutted before cooking.
Preparing the Fire
Start with a well-built campfire. Use hardwoods like oak, maple or hickory for a steady, hot fire. Let the fire burn down to hot coals. This ensures even cooking and prevents burning the fish. Spread the coals evenly to create a consistent cooking surface.
Seasoning the Fish
When you’re out there camping, you might find that simple seasoning works best. Rub the fish with olive oil, salt and pepper. Add fresh herbs like dill, thyme or parsley inside the cavity. For extra flavour, you can also place lemon slices inside. Avoid over-seasoning to let the fish’s natural taste shine.
Using Foil Packets
The good old foil packets still work great for campfire cooking. They keep the fish moist and prevent it from sticking. To start, place the seasoned fish on a large piece of aluminium foil. Wrap it tightly, ensuring no gaps. Double-wrap if necessary to avoid leaks. Lastly, place the packet directly on the hot coals.
Cooking Directly on the Grate
For a smoky flavour, cook the fish directly on a grate over the fire. Oil the grate well to prevent sticking. Then, place the fish on the grate, perpendicular to the bars. Cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, depending on the size of the fish.
Using a Cast Iron Skillet
Preheat the skillet on the coals before adding the fish to ensure even cooking. Add a bit of oil to the skillet, then place the fish inside. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side. The skillet helps maintain heat and gives the fish a nice crust.
Checking for Doneness
Does the fish flake easily with a fork? Then it’s already done. At this point, the internal temperature should reach 60°C. If you’re using a thermometer, insert it into the thickest part of the fish. Be careful not to overcook, as this can make the fish dry and tough.
Adding Extra Flavours
Drizzle olive oil or melted butter over the fish before serving. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness and sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro on top. You’d be surprised how simple touches like these can enhance the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Keep the sides simple to complement the fish’s natural flavour. These are some of the most campfire-friendly sides out there:
- Grilled vegetables
- Potatoes
- Simple salads
- Fresh bread
- Corn on the cob
Cleaning Up
Clean your cooking equipment and utensils thoroughly. Dispose of all food scraps properly to avoid attracting wildlife. Pack out all waste and leave the campsite as you found it. Remember that nature provided you with the perfect backdrop, so learn to respect it and follow all local regulations.
Campfires and Whole Fish
The sizzle of fresh whole fish cooking over a campfire makes the entire experience worth all your effort. Each method, whether you’re using foil, a grate or a skillet, brings out unique flavours. What do you and your companions want? You might want to consider this when planning your camping.
Ready for some campfire cooking? Make things a lot easier by seeking a trusted whole fish online delivery service.
