Do You Know These Tips to Spice Up Your Backcountry Cooking?

That hangry face … so scary. Photo by Mauricio Clauzet.

Food may be fuel, but that doesn’t mean it has to taste like it.

You’ll be surprised at how quickly a delicious-smelling cookpot can perk up your mood and turn people from a bunch of hangry grouches into very helpful kitchen assistants.

But what’s the secret to turning regular macaroni and cheese into a masterpiece? It’s a matter of taste, not an exact science. If you’re not sure quite where to start with your seasoning technique, then follow a few of these guidelines to spice up your dinners.

1. Avoid pouring seasoning directly into the pot.

Pour it into the cap of the spice bottle or into the stirring spoon first (that’s because these utensils are probably cleaner than your hands).

Sprinkle, stir, sprinkle, stir. Photo by Tracy Baynes.

2. Start with a little, taste, then add more if needed.

Hmmm … needs more hot sauce. Photo by Brad Christensen.

3. Remember that the flavor will intensify with cooking.

After seasoning, allow food to cook for about 10 minutes, then taste again before adding more.

Does everyone like the chocolate we added to this brownie mix? Photo by Tracy Baynes.

4. Have a group with strong opinions and different tastes?

Have everyone season their own portion to taste.

Happy, not hangry! Photo by Tracy Baynes.

Follow these tips and enjoy! All tips came from the NOLS Cookery.

Think you’re ready to test your skills? Then check out this *sweet* video:

*Editor’s note: Post updated 12/10/2019