Gourmet on the Go

Cooking and Eating Well in a Caravan

Ceaster

11/16/20232 min read

spaghetti on white ceramic plate
spaghetti on white ceramic plate

Traveling in a caravan/camper/tent doesn’t mean you have to compromise on good food. In fact, it can be an opportunity to explore simple yet delicious recipes that bring comfort and joy to your journey. Today, we're diving into the art of caravan cooking, offering you recipes that are not only easy to prepare in a small kitchen but are also packed with flavours that'll make your travel experience even more memorable.

1. One-Pot Spaghetti Bolognese

Ingredients:

  • 500g minced beef

  • 1 onion, finely chopped

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 can chopped tomatoes

  • 2 tbsp tomato paste

  • 1 tsp dried oregano

  • 300g spaghetti

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

  • Olive oil

Instructions:

  1. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large pot. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until soft.

  2. Add the minced beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.

  3. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.

  4. Break the spaghetti in half and add it directly into the pot, ensuring it's covered by the sauce.

  5. Simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked.

  6. Serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.

2. Campfire Veggie Packets

Ingredients:

  • Assorted vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, onions, cherry tomatoes)

  • Olive oil

  • Salt and pepper

  • Your choice of herbs (like rosemary or thyme)

Instructions:

  1. Cut the vegetables into bite-sized pieces.

  2. Lay out a large piece of aluminum foil, placing the veggies in the center.

  3. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and herbs.

  4. Fold the foil around the veggies to make a sealed packet.

  5. Cook on a grill or over a campfire for about 15-20 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.

3. Easy Caravan Pancakes

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

  • 2 tbsp sugar

  • 1 tbsp baking powder

  • A pinch of salt

  • 1 cup milk

  • 1 egg

  • Butter, for cooking

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

  2. Whisk in milk and egg until smooth.

  3. Heat a pan with a little butter.

  4. Pour batter to form pancakes of your desired size. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden.

Tips for Caravan Cooking:

  • Prep in Advance: Chop vegetables or prepare mixes before your trip to save time and space.

  • One-Pot Wonders: Opt for recipes that require a single pot or pan to reduce washing up.

  • Multi-Purpose Ingredients: Choose ingredients that can be used in multiple recipes.

  • Safety First: Always ensure your caravan is well-ventilated when cooking inside.

Cooking in a caravan doesn't have to be a chore. With these simple recipes, you can create meals that are both easy to prepare and delightful to eat, making your caravan adventure even more enjoyable. Remember, the best ingredient is always a dash of adventure! Happy cooking and happy travels