Nothing says summer like the smell of a campfire. There’s only one problem. We don’t have a fire pit. And, with social distancing, we are always looking for a fun indoor activity. You may not be able to roast marshmallows over an open flame, but using a cast-iron skillet in an oven will do the trick. These campfire treats can be enjoyed both indoors and outdoors and are sure to satisfy your sweet and salty cravings. Special thanks to Missy, one of our NoBox team members, as she’s shared these two family favorites with us.
Before we get to cooking, we wanted to share a few basic things to know about cooking with cast iron. If you’re already familiar with the basics, scroll down to see the recipes!
Cast Iron Cooking Tips
From sirloin steak to pancakes and just about everything in between, cast-iron pans are the ultimate multi-purpose kitchen tool. Perhaps one of the coolest things about this cookware is its longevity. Cast iron skillets only get better with age and, when taken care of, can last a lifetime. If you don’t already own a cast iron pan, we recommend Barebones (a partner of ours, and maker of the maple cutting and serving board.) Cast iron is ideal for frying and baking because it holds and distributes heat so well.
Oil recommendation – Most cooking oils are safe to use with a cast-iron, however, high heat oils are best. We recommend vegetable oil, peanut oil or avocado oil. Low heat oils like flaxseed oils may not be the best choice as it has a low smoke point meaning that you run the risk of creating smoke that may be harmful.
Campfire VS Oven – Here are a few things to consider between an open campfire and an oven:
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Oven: gets hot quicker, check on your food
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Campfire: might take longer to heat up
Be Safe– Just a reminder, cast iron gets hot, very hot, and retains heat for longer than traditional metal or ceramic pans. Use with caution.
Fun Fact – People will make popcorn in a skillet to season a cast iron as well.
Now, let’s get cooking.
Cast Iron S’mores Dip
Helpful Tips
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Make sure to use a cast-iron skillet. Using any other type of skillet other than cast-iron in this recipe may produce different results.
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Make sure to avoid overcooking the chocolate. A well-buttered skillet and a watchful eye will help make sure this doesn’t happen.
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For extra golden brown marshmallows, use a cast-iron lid
Alright, we know you know how to make a S’more. The ingredients go without saying, but here’s what you’ll need for the cast-iron s’mores dip version:
10” Skillet with Lid or Foil
2 C Mini Marshmallows
½ C Chocolate Chips
1 Package of Graham Crackers
In the oven:
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
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Place the chocolate chips and marshmallows in the cold pan and place in the oven.
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Allow to cook for 1-2 minutes then switch to broil until lightly browned.
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Dip graham crackers and enjoy!
Over the Fire:
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Preheat the lid for the cast iron skillet by placing on the cooking grate., allow to heat up for a few minutes.
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Add the chocolate chips and marshmallows to the cold skillet and then place the lid or foil over the top.
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Allow to heat on med-low heat for 1-2 minutes.
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Take the lid off and enjoy by dipping the graham crackers in the dip!
Cast Iron Popcorn
We have another campfire favorite—Old fashioned popcorn in a dutch oven! It’s just as fun to make, as it is to eat. This is another easy recipe that you can make indoors, or outdoors. Heres what you’ll need:
½ Cup Popcorn
¼ Olive Oil
Salt to taste
Butter (optional)
Over the Fire:
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In a cast iron crockpot over established coals, place the oil in the pan and allow it to heat up.
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Add the kernels and cover with lid.
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Shake every so often until you hear them popping. If needed you can turn the lid to allow for venting. Be careful it will be very hot.
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Sprinkle salt or any other seasonings you may want.
In the Oven:
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In a cast-iron crockpot over medium heat place the oil in the pan and allow it to heat up.
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Add the kernels and cover with lid.
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Shake every so often until you hear them popping. If needed you can turn the lid to allow for venting. Be careful it will be very hot.
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Sprinkle salt or any other seasonings you may want.
If you try any of these campfire treats, let us know! We would love to see how you think outside the box and add your own twist. For another delicious cast iron recipe, check out our Peach Crumble and Blackberry Sage blog post.
References
https://www.thedailymeal.com/cook/here-s-why-you-should-invest-good-cast-iron-pan-0
https://www.canolainfo.org/health/ask-a-nutrition-expert.php
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