Cooking with a Dutch Oven, the ring method

Discover the art of cooking over a campfire with a Dutch Oven and learn the essentials of heat control. In this article, we share valuable insights on using charcoal or briquettes to achieve the desired heat and the versatility of the rings method. With handy overview for temperatures and number of rings required for different cooking techniques, you can prepare delicious dishes outdoors with perfectly controlled heat distribution. Be aware that the numbers of rings indicated should be used as a guide and depend on weather conditions and the briquettes chosen. Also trust your own instincts to achieve the desired heat.

Rings method

In the 'rings method', the ring under your pan will be the same size as the bottom of the pan. On the lid of the pan, the briquettes are placed against the outer edge, against each other. A "half ring" has the same circular shape, but you use half as many briquettes. So here you leave space between the briquettes. If a second ring is needed, place the inner ring against the other ring. With this method, you don't have to count each briquette; the size of your Dutch Oven automatically determines how many briquettes you need.

Rings method for different cooking techniques:

When using the rings method with briquettes, you can adjust the amount of rings to achieve different cooking techniques, such as baking, boiling and stewing. By varying the position and number of rings, you can control heat control and achieve the desired cooking results. Here is an overview of the amount of rings typically used for each type of cooking technique:

Baking:

In baking, you want even heat around the pan to create a crispy crust. The following configuration is usually recommended for baking:

• Lower heat: Place 1/2 ring of briquettes under the pan, as big as the bottom of the pan.
• Top heat: Place 1 + 1/2 rings of briquettes on the lid of the pan, against the outer rim.

This configuration ensures even heat distribution and is ideal for baking bread, cakes, pizzas and other dishes where a crispy top is desired.

Cooking:

When cooking, you want even heat across the whole pan to simmer or boil ingredients. The following configuration is usually used for cooking:

• Lower heat: Place 1/2 ring of briquettes under the pan, as large as the bottom of the pan.
• Top heat: Place 1 ring of briquettes on the lid of the pan, against the outer rim.

This configuration ensures even heat distribution and is perfect for cooking soups, sauces and other dishes where even cooking is desired.

Braising:

When stewing, you want slow and even heat to tenderise tough cuts of meat and develop full flavours. The following configuration is usually used for stewing:

• Lower heat: Place 1 ring of briquettes under the pan, as big as the bottom of the pan.
• Top heat: Place 1/4 ring of briquettes on the lid of the pan, against the outer rim.

This configuration provides long-lasting, low heat and is ideal for stewing meat, preparing stews and developing rich flavours.

Conclusion

Discover the versatility of cooking over a campfire with a Dutch Oven and master the art of heat control with the rings method. Trust your own feeling and intuition to achieve the right heat, as the indicated numbers of rings are only a guide. Experiment and adjust the configurations to perfectly master desired cooking techniques, such as baking, boiling and stewing. Using the tables for temperatures and number of rings required, you can get a good start and then make your own adjustments based on weather conditions, briquettes used and other factors. Enjoy the delicious dishes you prepare.

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