Campfire Bread

Introduction: When it comes to rustic outdoor cooking, few things beat the simplicity and charm of campfire bread. These hearty, unleavened flatbreads are a staple of traditional Russian cuisine and are a perfect addition to any campfire meal. In this article, we'll guide you through the steps to make delicious campfire bread that's sure to be a hit on your next outdoor adventure.

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3/4 cup water (adjust as needed)

Equipment:

Mixing bowl
Rolling pin
Flat, clean rock or grill grate
Campfire or open flame

Instructions:

1. Prepare Your Campfire:

Before you start making campfire bread, ensure you have a well-established campfire with a bed of hot coals. You'll be cooking the bread on the hot coals, so make sure they're evenly spread and glowing.

2. Mix the Dough:

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Slowly add the water while stirring until the mixture comes together into a dough. Drizzle the vegetable oil over the dough and knead it for a few minutes until it's smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour.

3. Divide and Shape the Dough:

Divide the dough into small, golf ball-sized portions. This will depend on how many bread pieces you want to make. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten it into a small disc with your hands. You can also use a rolling pin if you have one.

4. Flatten and Shape the Bread:

Place a dough disc on a clean, flat rock or a grill grate positioned over the hot coals. Use your hands or the rolling pin to flatten the dough into a thin, round shape, similar to a tortilla. Aim for a thickness of about 1/8 to 1/4 inch.

5. Cook Over the Campfire:

Carefully transfer the flattened dough onto the hot coals of your campfire. Cook for approximately 1-2 minutes on each side or until the bread puffs up and develops a golden-brown color with a few charred spots. Use a long spatula or tongs to flip the bread.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Remove the campfire bread from the coals and let it cool for a minute or two. Serve your warm and rustic bread alongside your favorite campfire dishes. They're perfect for dipping into soups, stews, or enjoying with a spread of butter or jam.

Conclusion:

The simplicity of the ingredients and the unique cooking method make it a perfect choice for campfire cooking. So, the next time you're out in the wilderness, gather around the fire, and savor the satisfaction of freshly baked campfire bread ? a true taste of Russia.