Tasty Tuesday ... Time for Hobo Stew!

In keeping with our R&R this week, and because it seems to be a yearly tradition, it's time to post the annual "Hobo Stew" recipe on Tasty Tuesday. :) You wouldn't think that piling a bunch of uncooked food onto a piece of aluminum, wrapping it up and burying it in a campfire would be such a hit ... but the kids request it every year we camp! I admit that it's become a tradition I love. I'll take pictures of this year's experience and share later ... even if it ends up as a burnt offering in the campfire ring! (Which means we have Jiffy Pop for dinner ...)

This is a "description" of how to create our Hobo Stew. I don't know how it happened, but it's now a "post Father's Day week" tradition. :)

Last year's Hobo Stew!

Hobo Stew


Build a fire (wood or charcoal) and let it burn down to glowing coals. Use heavy duty aluminum foil (about 24 inches each) as "packaging". Spread out the variety of ingredients on a large table; let each person create their own meal. (This always reveals a LOT about each of our personalities ... the good, the bad, and the spicy!)

Writing with permanent marker is a good thought, but it really doesn't work well. Just watch where you place each person's package. :) Once you fill your foil, fold it tightly on the top, then fold in the sides tightly, so nothing spills out. Place each packet onto the coals, and allow them to cook until you hear sizzling and cooking going on ... at least 10 minutes. It's not an exact science ... that makes it fun! You will need two long handled tools (spatulas or sticks) to lift the packages in/out. If you're really clever, you can make "handles" when you wrap up the foil, and the it's easier ... haven't mastered that yet. You CAN put one back on the fire if you need to.

Here are ingredients we use to feed 4 campers :

1 1/2-2 lb. ground beef (pre-cook at home if possible - not possible this year), 1/2 lb. bacon (chopped, not cooked), corn (1 can), potatoes (1 can or pre-cooked sliced 3-4 potatoes), green beans (1 can), spaghetti sauce (opt., about 1/4 cup/person), cherry tomatoes (halved), shredded cheese (about 1 cup), spices (salt, pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning to taste OR a sprinkling of French Onion Soup Dry Mix - the kids LOVE to add spices). Add everything BUT CHEESE prior to sealing & cooking. Add cheese when done.

Eat these around a glowing campfire while the stars are coming out, and I guarantee memories will be made. I speak from experience here. :)