Park Visitor

 
Cooking
 
 

Insider Tips

Cooking outdoors can be great excuse to try new recipes and ways to cook. Dutch ovens and foil wrapping over an open fire can be lots of fun and a unique experience you won’t get at home. Once you know what facilities your park has to offer, explore recipes that you’d never thought to make before.

 
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Plan Ahead!
 

Plan ahead! Make a shopping list before hand so you don’t miss anything. Some parks will not have a supply shop, and if you forget something, you may have to take a long trip back to the market. Cut out the hassle and collaborate with your friends and family on things you will need well in advance.

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Storage
 

Bring plenty of storage. Foods that need to be kept fresh should be in a cooler and out of direct sunlight until ready to be cooked, while dry foods can be put into large, tightly-sealed bins so no animals can get in. If you are planning on backpacking, make sure to bring Ziploc bags for safe keeping. Ask the park before you head into the backcountry if bear canisters or bags are required.

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Presented by Farmer John: Grilling
 

Direct heat grilling is best for hot dogs, brats, beef, fish, and pork - especially thin-cut meats. For best results only turn the meat once.  Indirect heat grilling is best for roasts and large-cut meats, such as whole chickens. Sear meat on all sides, then place over a drip pan, close lid on grill, and check periodically for proper doneness.

 
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92

Carpinteria State Beach

Carpinteria, California

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81

Doheny State Beach

Dana Point, California

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94

Huntington State Beach

Huntington Beach, California

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90

San Onofre State Beach

San Clemente, California

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Presented by Farmer John: Marinades vs. Rubs
 

Marinades versus Rubs. Use marinades that contain vinegar or wine, which softens the meat. Completely cover the meat with the marinade from 2 hours to overnight depending on toughness. Rubs, a dry mix of herbs and spices, are also good ways to tenderize meats and add flavor. Allow rub to soak in overnight.

 
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92

Carpinteria State Beach

Carpinteria, California

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81

Doheny State Beach

Dana Point, California

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94

Huntington State Beach

Huntington Beach, California

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90

San Onofre State Beach

San Clemente, California

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Presented by Farmer John: Grilling Safety
 

Grilling Safety: Never leave a grill unattended once it has been lit. Avoid wearing loose clothing that can catch fire. Open all vents before and during cooking.

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92

Carpinteria State Beach

Carpinteria, California

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81

Doheny State Beach

Dana Point, California

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94

Huntington State Beach

Huntington Beach, California

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90

San Onofre State Beach

San Clemente, California

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Presented by Farmer John: Kabobs
 

Kabob like a pro. Skewers come in bamboo, wood, or metal. When using metal, be careful not to touch them while they are hot from the grill. Bamboo or wood skewers should be soaked in cool water so they won’t ignite as you grill.

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92

Carpinteria State Beach

Carpinteria, California

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81

Doheny State Beach

Dana Point, California

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94

Huntington State Beach

Huntington Beach, California

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90

San Onofre State Beach

San Clemente, California

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