Summertime Finale: Cooking around the Fire

August 1, 2022

As another balmy summer innately dwindles into its crisp neighbor of fall, everyone is desperately grasping to hold on to the last of the Dog Days.

Some favor to spend these sweltering days splashing in the pool, some prefer the riverbank with a rod and reel in hand, and others would rather just stay inside when it comes to the best way to cap off the three-month season of sun. At Hormel Foods, we tend to fancy one that includes, well, food. So, camping it is.

Camping is an inexpensive way to gather with friends and family before the days get way too short and the bustling cadence of life comes creeping back. Fresh air, sleeping under the stars and sharing simple, good food with those you love most – it’s the best way to celebrate a summer done right. Whether you’re gone for a week across state lines or just in your backyard, there’s no wrong way to do it. Maybe you use the classic charcoal grill, an authentic open fire or just pull snacks straight out of your trusty cooler that you’ve had for longer than you’d care to admit.

No need to complicate your fireside meal – there’s nothing wrong with a simple chili dinner and s’mores for dessert. Take advantage of the opportunity for connection with nature and your loved ones, the complex meals can wait until next time. Good food is good food, and at Hormel Foods we pride ourselves in our products falling under the exceptionally good category. So, for now, try a couple of these go-to camping favorites with the added flair of our favorite products. All you need is a flame, a stick (extra points for one straight from the woods) and a pie iron. Happy camping!

The nostalgic s’more just got turned up a notch. Sandwich a Justin’s^® dark (or milk, or white, for that matter) chocolate nut butter cup between a perfectly fire-roasted marshmallow and two graham crackers for the ideal camping snack. Guaranteed smiles by all that consume.

Between the hiking, swimming or even just relaxing – camping can make anyone work up an appetite. The Hormel Gatherings^® party and snack trays are an easy yet sustaining snack option when you don’t want to deal with prep or clean up.

Everyone knows how to make a PB&J, but this elevated version is sure to be a hit around your campsite. Spread equal parts SKIPPY^® Creamy Peanut Butter (use the individual squeeze packs for easy transportation between home and the campsite) and grape jelly on two slices of bread. Butter the outside of the bread and melt some butter inside the pie iron over the fire before putting the sandwich in. After the butter has melted, press the sandwich between the pie iron and roast it over the fire for approximately five minutes each side.

The pie iron is a versatile and fire-friendly cooking tool that you can use for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Just like with the pie iron PB&J, you can stuff your buttered bread with Hormel^® Chili and a slice of cheese, Dinty Moore^® Beef Stew or some pizza sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese and some Hormel^® Pepperoni. These pies are hearty enough to sustain your day in the wilderness but simple enough to be made in just minutes.

What’s easier than a one-can meal? Add a can or two of Hormel^® Chili to a pot or skillet and warm over an open flame. Once warmed, feel free to add some cheese and chips on top for a mouthwatering melt and crunch factor.

Summertime Finale: Cooking around the Fire

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