The Best Dinners to Cook While Camping with a 2 Burner Stove and a Small Jet Boil

When camping, cooking simple yet delicious meals can be a delightful experience. Whether you are a seasoned camper or just starting out, having the right equipment and meals can make your trip even more enjoyable. In this guide, we'll explore the best dinners you can prepare using a 2 burner stove and a small jet boil. Learn about dehydrated meals, one-pot soups, and canned foods that are easy and convenient to cook in the great outdoors.

Dehydrated Meals and Quick Alternatives

Dehydrated meals are particularly popular among campers due to their convenience and minimal waste of fuel. These meals can typically be prepared in a few minutes, making them ideal for tired campers.

Commercially Available Dehydrated Meals

Many pre-made dehydrated meals are available for purchase. You simply add boiling water to the resealable bag and let it sit for a few minutes before enjoying your meal. This method minimizes the use of fuel, making it a great choice for those looking to conserve resources.

Alternatives to Commercial Dehydrated Meals

If you prefer to make your own dehydrated meals, you can use ingredients like couscous, quinoa, or any other grain. These grains can be cooked in a pot and then added to your dehydrated ingredients, allowing you to minimize the use of fuel and create a filling meal.

One-Pot Soups and Stews

One-pot meals, such as soups and stews, are perfect for camping. These meals typically involve pre-cooking ingredients at home, like pulled pork or beef, and then freezing them for later use. When you arrive at your camping location, you can easily thaw and reheat these meals to enjoy a hearty and satisfying dinner.

Prepared Pulled Pork for a Large Group

For larger groups, like families or scouts, preparing meals in advance can be a huge time-saver. I often prepare pulled pork in large quantities for annual scout camps. I freeze the pulled pork in gallon-sized bags, which makes it easy to thaw and heat up on the first night of the camp. This method minimizes the number of times you need to use your stove and saves time for enjoying the experience.

Other One-Pot Soup Ideas

Chili is another excellent option for one-pot meals. Frozen chili can be thawed and heated up, making it a convenient and flavorful meal. The key is to consider the facilities you have available. Are you backpacking, and weight is a concern, or do you have more comprehensive camping facilities where you can access treated water and fuel?

Easy Canned Food Meals

For those who prefer to eat what they might already have at home, canned food can be a quick and easy meal option. Many campers consider some canned food items to be a campfire tradition due to the amazing taste these meals offer.

Canned Food Recommendations

I once heard from a friend about the deliciousness of a can of Chef Boyardee, and after trying it on a camping trip, I was convinced. It's surprising how good canned food can taste when eaten outdoors. Other great options include canned Dinty Moore Baked Beans. For a truly campfire experience, opt for something as simple as heating up a can of beans on your jet boil stove.

Simple versus Complex Recipes

If you're looking for something simple, just heat up a can of food. If you want to try something more complex, you may need to find another resource. I specialize in quick and easy meals, but for those craving more detail, you might consider exploring more detailed recipes and cooking techniques.

In conclusion, the best dinners for camping with a 2 burner stove and a small jet boil can range from simple to complex. Whether you opt for pre-made dehydrated meals, one-pot soups, or just a can of beans, the key is to make your meals enjoyable and fuel-efficient. Happy camping!