Backwoods Cooking is the dream of every Beaver Scout and Cub Scout, offering the thrill of cooking over an open fire in the great outdoors. This guide brings the excitement of backwoods cooking to life, showing you how to prepare delicious meals using natural products like leaves and mud, or practical substitutes like cooking foil. Originally published in SCOUTING Magazine from 1986 to 1988, this reprint combines the best of those articles, enriched by the expertise of Eddie Greenhalgh, who created many of the recipes, and Doug Mountford, who illustrated and tested them. Whether you're young or old, a seasoned scout or a beginner, this book provides all the knowledge you need to enjoy the full variety of backwoods cooking. Happy cooking!

Table of Contents

1. Introduction to Backwoods Cooking
2. Basic Techniques and Safety Tips
3. Cooking on a Stick
4. Using Leaves and Mud for Cooking
5. Cooking with Foil
6. Recipes for Breakfast
7. Lunch and Dinner Recipes
8. Snacks and Sweets
9. Cooking Game and Fish
10. Advanced Backwoods Cooking Methods
11. Tips for Scouting Leaders
12. Illustrated Guides and Diagrams

Backwoods Cooking

Key Sections Explained

1. Introduction to Backwoods Cooking: This section introduces the concept of backwoods cooking, highlighting its appeal and the sense of adventure it brings to camping and outdoor activities.

2. Basic Techniques and Safety Tips: Learn essential techniques for cooking safely in the wild, including fire management, food handling, and safety tips to ensure a fun and injury-free experience.

3. Cooking on a Stick: Discover the simplicity and fun of cooking food on sticks over an open fire, with easy-to-follow recipes that are perfect for beginners and young scouts.

4. Using Leaves and Mud for Cooking: Explore traditional methods of using natural materials like leaves and mud for cooking, offering a unique and authentic backwoods cooking experience.

5. Cooking with Foil: Practical tips and recipes for using cooking foil as a convenient and effective substitute for natural materials in backwoods cooking.

6. Recipes for Breakfast: Start your day with a delicious breakfast cooked in the wild, featuring recipes that are easy to prepare and perfect for a camping trip.

7. Lunch and Dinner Recipes: Enjoy hearty and satisfying meals with recipes designed for lunch and dinner, showcasing the variety and versatility of backwoods cooking.

8. Snacks and Sweets: Treat yourself to tasty snacks and desserts that can be easily made in the wild, adding a sweet touch to your outdoor adventure.

9. Cooking Game and Fish: Learn how to prepare freshly caught game and fish with techniques and recipes that make the most of your natural surroundings.

10. Advanced Backwoods Cooking Methods: For those looking to expand their skills, this section offers more complex cooking methods and recipes to try.

11. Tips for Scouting Leaders: Scouting leaders will find valuable advice on teaching backwoods cooking to their scouts, including supervision tips and educational strategies.

12. Illustrated Guides and Diagrams: Visual aids to help you understand and execute backwoods cooking techniques and recipes, making the learning process easier and more enjoyable.

How to Implement These Techniques

1. Start with Basics: Begin with basic techniques and safety tips to ensure a solid foundation for backwoods cooking.
2. Experiment with Simple Recipes: Try cooking on a stick and using foil for easy and fun recipes suitable for all skill levels.
3. Incorporate Natural Methods: Experiment with traditional cooking methods using leaves and mud for a more authentic experience.
4. Expand Your Skills: Progress to more advanced recipes and techniques as you gain confidence and experience in backwoods cooking.
5. Engage Young Scouts: Use the tips and illustrated guides to teach young scouts the joys and skills of backwoods cooking.

By following this comprehensive guide, you can fully embrace the adventure of backwoods cooking, creating delicious meals in the wild and making lasting memories with your family and fellow scouts.