Bannock over the campfire

Alt FR : bannique autochtone cuite au feu de camp Alt EN : Indigenous bannock cooking over campfire


introduction

Bannock cooked over a campfire is one of the oldest and most authentic forms of this Indigenous bread. Prepared directly on a stick or heated stone, it offers a unique texture and a slightly smoky flavor reminiscent of cooking in the wild. It's a simple, nourishing recipe, perfect for outdoor adventures.

ingredients

  • 2 cups of flour

  • 2 teaspoons of baking powder

  • ½ teaspoon of salt

  • 2 tablespoons of oil or fat

  • ¾ cup of water or more as needed

steps for preparing a campfire

  1. Mix the flour, baking powder and salt in a bowl.

  2. Add the oil or fat and mix it in with your fingertips.

  3. Pour in water until you obtain a soft, non-sticky paste.

  4. Form small balls of dough and roll them around a clean, peeled and slightly moistened stick.

  5. Hold the stick above the embers, not directly in the flame.

  6. Turn slowly until the bannock is golden brown and cooked evenly.

  7. Serve hot immediately after cooking.

cooking on hot stone

Another traditional method is to cook the bannock directly on a heated stone by the fire.

  1. Choose a flat, clean stone.

  2. Leave it to heat up near the embers.

  3. Place a disc of dough directly onto the stone.

  4. Cook for a few minutes on each side until the surface is slightly crispy.

This cooking method results in a more rustic texture and an even more natural taste.

Alt FR: bannock cooking on a stick over a campfire Alt EN: bannock cooking on a stick over a campfire

tips for successful outdoor cooking

  • use embers rather than flames

  • maintain a constant temperature to avoid burning the dough

  • choose a green stick to prevent it from catching fire

  • Add a little more flour if the dough is too wet on the outside.

variations adapted to camping

sweet bannock

Add a little sugar, honey or dried fruit to the dough.

salted bannock

Incorporate wild herbs or small pieces of dried meat.

crispy bannock

Cook slightly longer by keeping the stick closer to the embers.

For the complete recipe for traditional bread, you can read the recipe for native bannock .

For a quick version at home, here is pan bannock .

To explore culinary traditions, visit the Indigenous spirituality section.

our indigenous creations inspired by traditions

If you enjoy traditional Indigenous cuisine, you can also discover handcrafted creations from Quebec. Each piece reflects a deep connection to the culture and the land.

Visit the online store to surround yourself with authentic and meaningful pieces.

Creations inspired by the spirit of legends

Each piece is handcrafted on the Nitassinan by the Ilnu craftsman Dave Verreault-Thisselmagan.

Foire aux questions

Why cook bannock over a campfire?
Because it's one of the oldest methods, used during hunting, travel, and camping. It gives a unique smoky flavor.
Can a stone be used to cook bannock?
Yes, it's a traditional method. The stone must be hot but not burning hot for even cooking.
How long does it take to cook?
Generally, between 8 and 12 minutes depending on the heat of the embers.