Delicious Camp Stew Recipes for Cold Weather RV Adventures

Introduction to Camp Stew Recipes

Camp soups and stews are a staple of outdoor cooking, especially in the brisk weather of wintertime RV trips. The allure is evident; these meals provide warmth, nutrition, and a homely feel even when away from home. As we embark on cold weather RV adventures, the simplicity and adaptability of these winter recipes make them perfect for on-the-road chefs.

Camp Stew Recipes for your RV Adventures

Comfy stews and soups are typically made in a soup pot with a combination of meat, vegetables, and broth or stock. The ingredients can be easily customized to suit individual preferences and dietary restrictions. Whether you prefer a hearty beef stew, a flavorful chicken and vegetable stew, or a vegetarian option, there is something out there for you.

Keep on reading to find some hearty camp stews recipes for cold weather adventures. These recipes are easy to follow and require minimal prep work, making them ideal for busy travellers. With that said, grab your ingredients, pack up your cooking equipment, and get ready to enjoy some delicious camp stew on your next RV trip.

The Appeal of Delicious Camp Stew Recipes

Picture this: you’re nestled in your RV amidst a forest dusted with snow. The air is crisp, and the early nightfall calls for a comforting meal. This is where campfire cooking and comfy stews shine. It’s not just food; it’s an experience. Each spoonful of hearty soup is a warm embrace against the cold and a nostalgic reminder of traditional family dinners.

One of the great things about stews is that they can be prepared in a variety of ways. You can make over the campfire in a Dutch oven, use a slow cooker, or make them on the stove in your RV kitchen. No matter how you choose to prepare your stew, the end result is always a warm and comforting meal that will keep you fuelled for your outdoor adventures.

Hearty Camp Stew Recipes

Classic Beef Stew

As far as camp stew recipes go, a traditional beef stew is the ultimate in comfort foods. It starts with chunks of tender beef, slow-cooked with potatoes, carrots, and onions. The rich broth gains its flavor from a careful blend of herbs and a splash of red wine. This classic is filling and full of protein, which is much needed after a day of outdoor activities.

Ingredients

• 3 pounds boneless beef chuck (well-marbled), cut into 1½-inch pieces
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 medium yellow onions, cut into 1-inch chunks
• 7 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1½ tablespoons tomato paste
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups dry red wine
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 bay leaf
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• 1½ teaspoons sugar
• 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks on a diagonal
• 1 pound small white boiling potatoes (we recommend baby yukons), cut in half or quarters.

In a large Dutch oven or heavy soup pot, heat 1 tablespoon of the olive oil over medium-high heat until hot and shimmering. Brown the meat in 3 single layer batches. To sear the meat properly, do not crowd the pan and let the meat develop a nice brown crust before turning with tongs. Transfer the meat to a large plate and set aside.

Add the onions, garlic and balsamic vinegar. Stir with a wooden spoon and scrape the brown bits from bottom of the pan. Add the tomato paste and cook for another minute. Add the beef and juices back to the pan and sprinkle with the measured flour. Stir with wooden spoon until the flour is dissolved, 1 to 2 minutes. Add the wine, beef broth, water, bay leaf, thyme, and sugar. Stir with a wooden spoon to loosen any brown bits from the bottom of the pan and bring to a boil. Cover the pot with a lid, transfer to the preheated oven, and braise for 2 hours.

Add the carrots and potatoes. Cover and place back in oven for about an hour more, or until the vegetables are cooked, the broth is thickened, and the meat is tender. Fish out the bay leaf and discard, then taste and adjust seasoning, if necessary.

Chicken and Sausage Gumbo

Gumbo, with its roots in Louisiana, combines chicken, sausage, and often shrimp, simmered with okra and file powder. Served over rice, this stew is a hearty Southern classic that brings a bit of Cajun spice to the campsite.

Ingredients 

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, or thigh
• 2 quarts water, to cook the chicken
• 1 pound okra, 1″ pieces, or frozen
• ½ cup water
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cup yellow onion, ¼” dice
• 1 ½ cup bell pepper, ¼” dice, green and red
• ⅓ cup celery, ¼” dice
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 2 cups diced canned tomatoes
• 12 ounces andouille sausage, cooked, ½” slices
• 1 dried bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme,
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon gumbo filé

In a medium-sized pot, add chicken and cover with 2 quarts of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer until fully cooked. Strain the chicken broth and reserve.

Remove cooked chicken from the pot. Allow it to cool, then shred into small pieces. Cover and set aside.

In a medium-sized pot, add okra and ½ cup of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Simmer until tender while occasionally stirring. Transfer to a colander, drain and set aside.

In a large dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, combine butter and flour. Cook over medium heat, frequently stirring with a whisk, until a dark brown roux forms. If needed, increase the heat if you do not see a substantial colour change. In the last few minutes keep stirring so the roux does not burn.

Add onion, bell peppers, celery, and garlic to the pot. Sauté until vegetables are tender. Add cooked okra, tomatoes, and sliced sausage. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add bay leaf, thyme, basil, cayenne, salt, and pepper.

Stir in 4 cups of the reserved chicken broth. Loosely cover the pot and simmer over medium-low heat, occasionally stirring until the gumbo thickens. Add the cooked shredded chicken and simmer for an additional 15 minutes.

Turn off the heat and slowly stir in the gumbo filé. Do not reboil after adding, as this tends to make the gumbo stringy. Taste and season with more salt and pepper as desired. Add more chicken broth if you want a less thick consistency.

Vegetarian Lentil Stew

For those preferring plant-based options, a lentil stew is an excellent choice. Packed with protein-rich lentils, root vegetables, and aromatic spices, this stew is both nutritious and satisfying, proving that meatless dishes can stand their ground in the world of comfort food. This recipe is Vegan friendly.

Ingredients

• 2 Tbsp Olive oil
• 1 yellow onion
• 4 cloves garlic
• 4 carrots (about 1/2 lb.)
• 4 stalks celery
• 2 lbs potatoes
• 1 cup brown lentils
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 2 Tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1.5 Tbsp soy sauce
• 1 Tbsp brown sugar
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup frozen peas

Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Add the olive oil, onion, and garlic to a large soup pot and sauté over medium heat.

While the onion and garlic sauté, dice the celery and add to pot. Peel and chop the carrots into half rounds. Add the carrots to the pot and continue cooking.

Peel and cube the potatoes into 3/4 to 1-inch pieces. Add the cubed potatoes to the pot along with lentils, rosemary, thyme, Dijon, soy sauce, brown sugar, and vegetable broth. Stir. Place a lid on the pot, turn the heat up to high, and bring the stew to a boil. Then turn the heat down to low and let it simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

When the potatoes are very soft, mash the potatoes a bit as you stir. This will help thicken the stew. After 30 minutes, stir in the frozen peas and allow them to heat through. Taste the stew and add salt if needed.

Spicy Chili Con Carne

Chili con carne is a fiery delight for those who enjoy a bit of heat. Ground beef, kidney beans, tomatoes, and chili peppers create a robust dish. Toppings like cheese, sour cream, and green onions allow for customization according to individual tastes.

Author’s note: Chili is supposed to be hot! Use 1 tsp cayenne pepper for a warm hum, 1.5 tsp for a nice tingle, or 2 tsp for medium spiciness. The best way is to start with less then add more at the end.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 minced garlic cloves
• 1 diced onion
• 1 diced red bell pepper
• 1 lb ground beef
• 3 tbsp tomato paste
• 28 oz can crushed tomato
• 14 oz can red kidney beans
• 2 beef bouillon cubes
• 1 1/2 tsp sugar
• 1/2 – 1 1/2 cups water
• Salt and pepper

Chili Spice Mix:

• 1 – 2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 4 tsp paprika powder
• 5 tsp cumin powder
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp onion powder
• 2 tsp oregano

To Serve

• Rice, corn chips, tortillas
• Sour cream, yogurt, grated cheese, cilantro

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add garlic and onion, cook for 1 minute, then add bell pepper and cook until onion is translucent.

Turn heat up to high and add beef. Cook, breaking it up as you go, until mostly browned. Add Chili Spice Mix. Cook until beef is browned all over.

Add remaining ingredients, with 1/2 cup of water for Quick Cook or 1 1/2 cups for Slow Cook. Bring to simmer, then adjust heat per step below:

• Quick Cook – 20 to 40 minutes, uncovered, on medium low heat so it’s bubbling gently; OR
• Slow Cook – 1.5 hours to 2 hours, covered, on low heat so it’s bubbling very gently. (Note 3 Slow Cooker)
• Adjust salt and pepper to taste just before serving.

Tips for A Perfect Stew

Choosing the Right Ingredients

Selecting fresh, high-quality ingredients is crucial for a tasty stew. Opt for seasonal vegetables and high-grade meats. Consider using local produce found near your camping site for an authentic touch.

Using pre-made spice mixes or creating your own can add depth and flavor to your stew. Experiment with different combinations of spices to find your favourite blend. For a heartier stew, add beans or lentils for added protein and texture. This can be especially helpful for vegetarian or vegan campers.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings and garnishes. Try adding avocado slices, pickled jalapenos, or a squeeze of lime juice to brighten up your stew.

Creative Twists on Camp Stew Recipes

Campfire Dutch Oven Stew

The dutch oven is a versatile tool for cooking your camp stew recipes. Try a twist on the classic stew by incorporating unexpected ingredients like sweet potatoes or quinoa. Cooking over an open fire gives the stew a smoky flavor that can’t be replicated on a conventional stove.

Slow Cooker Camp Stew Recipes

Slow cookers make preparation of your camp stew recipes a breeze. Start your stew in the morning, and by dinnertime, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal ready. From Tuscan chicken stew to Moroccan-inspired tagines, the possibilities are endless.

One-Pot Instant Pot Stews

The Instant Pot is a modern RV kitchen miracle. It speeds up cooking times without sacrificing flavor. No matter which of the camp stew recipes you choose, whether it’s a savoury beef bourguignon or a spicy Indian dal, these one-pot wonders are perfect for the efficient traveller.

Grilled Stew Skewers

Stews don’t always need to be served in a bowl. Grilled skewers featuring stew ingredients offer a fun and interactive way to enjoy the flavors. Alternate pieces of marinated meat, vegetables, and even dumplings on a skewer for a stew-inspired barbecue.

Stew-Stuffed Bread Bowls

Edible bowls made from hollowed-out bread loaves add a rustic and delightful twist. Fill them with your favourite stew, and enjoy a complete meal that leaves no dish behind.

Cooking Methods for RV Adventures

Adapting cooking methods to your RV setup is important. Whether you’re using a portable stove, a grill, or a campfire, each method will impart different flavors and textures to your stew.

The Effects of Each Cooking Method on your Camp Stew Recipes

A portable stove is a versatile option for cooking stew while camping. It allows for precise temperature control and even heating. Use a heavy-bottomed pot to distribute heat evenly and prevent burning.

Grilling adds a smoky flavor to your stew. Use a cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven on the grill to simmer your stew. Be sure to monitor the heat and stir occasionally to prevent sticking and uneven cooking.

Preparing your camp stew recipe over a campfire gives it a rustic and traditional taste. Use a sturdy tripod and a cast-iron Dutch oven to cook your stew directly over the fire. Adjust the height of the pot to control the heat.

If you have access to electricity in your RV, a slow cooker is a convenient option. Simply add all the ingredients from your camp stew recipes to the slow cooker and let it simmer on low heat for several hours. This method allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

If you’re short on time, prepping some ingredients ahead of time can make cooking at the campsite easier. Chop vegetables and store them in airtight containers, and pre-cook any meat that needs to be browned before adding to the stew.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Proper storage is key for leftovers. Keep your stew in airtight containers and reheat gently to retain the flavor. Most stews taste even better the next day after the flavors have melded together overnight. To make clean-up easier, consider using disposable aluminum pans or liners for your Dutch oven or slow cooker. This will save you from having to scrub off any stubborn food residue.

Customizing Camp Stew Recipes to Personal Taste

Don’t be afraid to experiment. Adjust spices to suit your palate and swap out ingredients based on dietary needs or preferences. Stews are forgiving and flexible, making them ideal for personalization.

Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning of your stew as it cooks. The flavors will develop and intensify over time, so be sure to check for salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you prefer.

Sharing Stew with Fellow Campers

Stews are made for sharing. They provide a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow travellers. Sharing a meal around the campfire is a quintessential part of the RV experience.

Enjoy the process of cooking and sharing a delicious meal with your fellow campers. Stew is a comforting and communal dish that brings people together, so savour the experience and make lasting memories.

Summarizing the Appeal of Camp Stew Recipes for your Cold Weather Camping Trip

In conclusion, camp stew recipes are the heartwarming companions of any cold weather RV journey. They bring comfort, flavor, and a sense of community to the great outdoors. These recipes offer a taste of home while allowing for creativity and culinary exploration. Doesn’t is sound like the perfect idea to grab your spoon, gather around the fire, and dive into the rich and varied world comforting winter food?