For the next What’s for Dinner post I am sharing Strawhats, an old family recipe. This is a traditional camping meal for us and one of my favorite. I always look forward to the summer time when we will inevitably have Strawhats. Last week, we got to spend some time at a place we call Redwood.
Redwood is located just outside of Yosemite.
My grandparents built this camp/cabin in the late 50‘s, early 60‘s and it is one of the most wonderful places. There is running water, hot/cold shower, and a propane fridge and stove. So it is not exactly camping. But there isn’t any electricity or even real walls or ceilings. There are 3 bedrooms that sleep 14 total plus the deck is a great place to sleep. Every summer since I was a little one we have been going up to Redwood. I have so many memories of playing in the mud, swimming in the river, playing games, hiking and reading. In the past few years I have only been able to spend the weekend there, so it was nice to enjoy 5 days this year.
Now let’s get back to the important things, the food!
Strawhats is a chili like meat sauce that goes over Fritos and then topped with cheddar cheese. It’s the perfect mixture of cruchy chips, warm tomatoey meat sauce, and melted, gooey cheese. If you get the large Fritos scoops you can eat it all with your hands which is ideal. But the small Fritos work too but a fork will be necessary.
Cooking is even better when you have a nice view and fresh air!
It makes the perfect camping meal because you can make it early and freeze it. It’s better when you make it ahead because it gives all the flavors time to mix and mingle.
My cousin and I have even made a vegetarian option that was still delicious. We used fake ground beef and you couldn’t tell at all. So don’t you worry vegetarians, you can still enjoy this summer tradition.
Does your family have any traditional summer camping meals?
- 1 c. Chopped onions
- 2/3 c. Chopped celery
- 2/3 c. Chopped green
- 1 t Pepper
- 3 T. Oil
- 2 lb. Ground beef
- 2 t. Salt
- 1 t. Chili powder
- ½ t. Thyme
- ¼ t. Pepper
- 1 can Mushrooms
- 18 oz. Tomato paste
- ½ c. Ketchup
- 2 c. Water
- 2 T. Worcestershire
- 1 dash Tabasco
- Sauté onions, celery and green pepper until tender in oil. Add 2 lbs. ground beef. Cook until brown and drain. Add the remaining ingredients. Simmer uncovered one hour. Put over Fritos. Sprinkle with grated sharp cheese.
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