Fall Camping Delights: 5 Savory Soups to Cook in Cast Iron Dutch Ovens
Crisp autumn air, vibrant foliage, and the comforting warmth of a crackling campfire—it’s the perfect time to embark on a camping adventure. As the temperature drops, there’s nothing quite as satisfying as a hearty bowl of soup to warm your soul. And what better way to prepare these delicious concoctions than in a trusty cast iron Dutch oven? In this blog post, we’ll explore five mouthwatering fall soups that are not only easy to make while camping but also guaranteed to elevate your outdoor culinary experience.
- Classic Campfire Chili: There’s no denying the timeless allure of a well-made chili. Packed with bold flavors and robust spices, it’s a fantastic choice for camping trips. Start by browning ground beef or turkey with onions and garlic in your Dutch oven. Add kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and a medley of chili powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano. Let it simmer over the campfire for a couple of hours, and voila! You have a comforting, protein-rich meal to enjoy with friends and family.
- Butternut Squash and Apple Soup: Capture the essence of autumn with this creamy and flavorful soup. Begin by sautéing onions in butter or olive oil until translucent. Then, add diced butternut squash, apples, vegetable broth, and a touch of cinnamon and nutmeg. Allow the ingredients to simmer in your Dutch oven until the squash is tender. Blend the mixture until smooth, and if desired, finish with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds. This soup embodies the essence of fall and will warm your heart with every spoonful.
- Hearty Potato Leek Soup: Potato leek soup is a classic comfort food, and it translates wonderfully to the camping experience. Start by sautéing leeks in butter or oil until softened. Add cubed potatoes, vegetable or chicken broth, and a bay leaf. Simmer until the potatoes are tender and then mash or blend the soup to your desired consistency. For an added touch of indulgence, stir in some heavy cream and garnish with fresh chives. This creamy and satisfying soup is perfect for chilly nights around the campfire.
- Tuscan Bean and Kale Soup: For a nutritious and flavorful option, try this Tuscan-inspired soup. Begin by sautéing onions, garlic, and carrots in olive oil. Add canned cannellini beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and a generous handful of chopped kale. Season with herbs like rosemary and thyme, and let the soup simmer until the flavors meld together. This rustic soup pairs well with crusty bread and is sure to warm you up during your outdoor escapades.
- Spicy Corn Chowder: If you’re a fan of spicy flavors, this corn chowder will hit all the right notes. Sauté onions and diced bell peppers in butter until softened. Add diced potatoes, corn kernels, chicken or vegetable broth, and a touch of cayenne pepper. Simmer until the potatoes are tender, and then stir in heavy cream to add richness. For a delightful finishing touch, garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice. This soup is a crowd-pleaser that will keep you cozy during chilly camping nights.
Cooking while camping doesn’t have to mean sacrificing delicious and comforting meals. With a cast iron Dutch oven and a little creativity, you can whip up these five fall soups that will warm your body and soul during your outdoor adventures. From the robust flavors of chili to the velvety smoothness of butternut