Wild_Guide_Spring2016

Get cookin’
by Tony Griffiths
THE ART OF MAKING A GOOD COOKING FIRE IN THE WILDERNESS IS NOT
AS SIMPLE AS IT MAY SOUND. WHILE KNOWING HOW TO MAKE A CAMP
FIRE IS A VITAL OUTDOOR SKILL, THE FIRE YOU USE TO KEEP WARM
MAY NOT BE THE MOST SUITABLE FIRE FOR COOKING. HERE ARE A FEW
SIMPLE WAYS TO CREATE A GOOD COOKING FIRE USING MATERIALS YOU
ALREADY HAVE OR CAN FORAGE FROM THE BUSH.
Begin by searching out the
driest tinder available. Birch
bark is one of nature’s best fire
starters and is available in most
of north America’s wooded areas.
Small dry branches also make
good kindling and fuel for your
cooking fire.
Traditional Fire – This may seem
straight forward but it’s surprising how many
people get this one wrong. The key is to
make a small fire and keep it burning until a
good coal bed has been accumulated. Start by
lighting some birch bark and begin piling the
smallest pieces of kindling you have on top.
Continue to fuel the fire until you have the
coals you need to proceed. Move the ember’s
into a pile in the middle of the area. Place an
equal-sized piece of wood on either side of
your coals to create an even surface to lay
your pan on. Place your pan on top and you’re
ready to cook. Remember you don’t need a
big fire to cook over, just a small bed of good
hot coals.
49 Wild Guide . Spring 2016