Cooking Rice Over a Campfire While Camping Outdoors

Camping in the great outdoors is exciting. On the other hand, there are many things Mak Cuss needs to adjust to make camping run smoothly, one of which is how to cook rice. Not every campsite allows you to bring a gas stove, whether due to rough terrain or limited carrying capacity. Even so, there is no need to worry because Mak Cuss can still cook rice using firewood. Let’s find out how below.

1. Choose a flat area without strong wind

Before starting to cook rice, find a safe spot. Make sure the area is flat and stable so the pot will not tip over easily. Keep the cooking area away from bushes, tents, or flammable materials to avoid the risk of fire.

Equally important, choose a place sheltered from strong winds so the cooking fire stays steady and does not spread. As a tip, Mak Cuss can arrange small stones in a circle to contain the campfire area.

2. Wash the rice until clean

Start cooking rice by washing it thoroughly. If Mak Cuss uses Maknyuss rice, rinsing just once is enough.

3. Measure slightly more water than usual

When cooking rice over firewood, it is best to prepare slightly more water than usual because the campfire heat is less stable than a regular stove. Using more water helps prevent the rice from burning quickly. Use a ratio of 1:2, which is two cups of water for one cup of rice. If measuring with your finger, make sure the water level is slightly above one fingernail.

4. Boil the water first after lighting the campfire

Once you have the right amount of water, light the campfire. Wait until the fire burns steadily. Then, do not rush to add the water into the rice. First, boil the water for about 7 to 12 minutes. This step prevents the bottom of the rice from burning too soon so the rice cooks evenly.

5. Cook over medium heat in a nesting pot

When adding rice to the boiling water, use a strong nesting pot suitable for outdoor camping, such as stainless steel which is heat resistant and easy to clean. Another option is anodized aluminum, which is lightweight, non-stick, and heats up quickly.

Once the rice is in the pot, reduce the fire by adjusting the wood placement. Unlike a stove with a heat control knob, cooking rice over firewood requires active monitoring. During cooking, keep the flame from getting too big to avoid burning the pot’s bottom. Stir the rice occasionally to prevent sticking or burning in certain spots.

6. Watch for changes in the rice and water

After about 15 minutes, Mak Cuss can open the pot lid and stir the rice again. Check the changes. If the water is fully absorbed and the rice grains have expanded, the rice is done, especially if you can smell the fragrant aroma of cooked rice.

For certainty, take a small amount of rice and check the texture. If it feels firm yet soft (not hard in the center), the rice is perfectly cooked.

7. Wait 10 to 15 minutes before serving

Once the rice is done, remove it from the fire and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes. Then stir the rice evenly so the steam spreads through the grains, making the texture softer. This also prevents the rice from becoming mushy when scooped. Only then can Mak Cuss enjoy warm rice with the prepared side dishes.

Cooking rice over a campfire may take more effort than using a regular stove. However, enjoying warm rice in the middle of nature will be an unforgettable experience. To make it even more delicious, be sure to bring premium rice like Maknyuss Rice while camping.

Maknyuss Rice is made without chemicals, preservatives, bleach, or artificial fragrances. As a result, Maknyuss Rice produces naturally soft and fluffy rice. Even when cooked traditionally over firewood, the aroma and flavor remain at their best. So, before heading out camping, make sure to buy Maknyuss Rice as part of your supplies.