Age: 32
Relationship: Married, no children
Ethnicity: White / Latino
Location: Milpitas, California (Bay Area)
Outdoor Activity: Around once a month
Cooks outdoors: Yes
Owns an EV: Yes
-CATEGORY 1-
Q: When you are outdoors, what are your 5 most common breakfast foods, from most common to least common, and how do you prepare them?
Typically I prepare my breakfast foods before I go out because I will leave the house around 5 AM and begin hiking at around 6 or 6:30. If I am camping and eating out, then I will usually eat eggs, bacon, or leftovers from the night before if they are still good.
Toast or bagels with cream cheese or peanut butter and jelly (pre-packaged)
Fresh fruit or fruit salad (assembled, pre-packaged, or prepared beforehand)
Eggs (scrambled, fried or boiled with campsite grill or portable stove)
Bacon or sausage (campsite grill or portable stove)
Cereal or oatmeal (usually with oatmilk because it doesn’t spoil)
Q: When you are outdoors, what are your 5 most common lunch foods, from most common to least common, and how do you prepare them?
From most common to least common:
Sandwiches - I would bring bread, meat, cheese, and condiments such as mustard or mayo. I would typically assemble the sandwiches at the campsite or a stop during a hike.
Hot dogs - I would bring hot dogs and buns and cook them over a campfire or on a portable grill.
Burgers - Similar to hot dogs, I would bring burgers and buns and cook them over a campfire or on a portable grill.
Grilled chicken - I would marinate the chicken in advance, then grill it on a portable grill or over a campfire.
Salads - I might bring pre-made salads or make them at the campsite using ingredients such as lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and dressing.
Q: When you are outdoors, what are your 5 most common dinner foods, from most common to least common, and how do you prepare them?
Roughly from most common to least common:
Grilled steak - I would bring a nice cut of steak, season it with salt and pepper, then grill it on a portable grill or over a campfire.
Grilled vegetables - I would bring a selection of vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and onions, toss them in olive oil and seasoning, then grill them on a portable grill or over a campfire.
Foil packet meals - I might make a foil packet meal by wrapping ingredients such as potatoes, carrots, and chicken in foil and cooking it over a campfire or on a portable grill.
Chili - I would bring ground beef, canned tomatoes, kidney beans, and spices, then cook it over a campfire or on a portable stove.
Pasta - I would boil water over a campfire or on a portable stove, then cook pasta and sauce, which I might bring from home or make at the campsite.
Tacos - I would bring seasoned ground beef, cheese, lettuce, and tortillas, then assemble the tacos at the campsite.
Grilled fish - I would bring fresh fish, season it with salt and pepper, then grill it on a portable grill or over a campfire.
Kabobs - I would bring meat and vegetables, such as chicken and bell peppers, and skewer them, then grill them over a campfire or on a portable grill.
Campfire stew - I would bring a variety of ingredients, such as canned tomatoes, potatoes, onions, and sausage, then cook them in a Dutch oven over a campfire.
Campfire pizza - I would bring pizza dough, sauce, cheese, and toppings such as pepperoni and vegetables, then cook the pizza on a portable grill or over a campfire.
Q: Which one is your favorite and why?
I would say that my favorite dinner option is grilled steak. I love the flavor and tenderness of a good steak, and it's a treat that I don't often have at home. Plus, grilling the steak over a campfire or on a portable grill adds a special outdoor flavor that can't be replicated indoors. It's also a meal that's easy to prepare and doesn't require a lot of ingredients, so it's a great option for a simple and satisfying dinner while camping.
Q: I see you often say portable grill or a campfire. How often are you using a portable grill vs a camp fire?
As someone who enjoys camping on a monthly basis, I tend to use a portable grill more often than a campfire grill. This is because portable grills are more versatile and convenient, allowing me to cook a wider variety of foods and to control the temperature more precisely. They are also easier to clean up and transport than a campfire grill. However, I do enjoy the experience of cooking over a campfire grill when I have the opportunity, such as when I am camping in a location that allows campfires and have access to suitable firewood. In such situations, I might use a campfire grill for some meals to add variety to my cooking methods.
Q: How many people, if any, do you typically enjoy outdoor experiences with?
I usually go camping with a small group of friends or family, usually around 2-4 people. While I do enjoy solo camping occasionally, I find that camping with others is a great way to share the experience and create lasting memories. Plus, having others around can make it easier to share the workload of setting up camp and cooking meals.
Q: What outdoor cooking equipment do you typically bring with you?
I typically use a portable propane stove (Coleman Classic Propane Stove) for outdoor cooking. Propane stoves are easy to use and provide a reliable source of heat for cooking meals, whether it's boiling water for pasta or frying up bacon for breakfast. They are also relatively lightweight and easy to transport, making them a great option for camping trips. I usually bring a small camping stove with one or two burners, depending on the size of the group I'm camping with and the types of meals I plan to prepare.
Q: How often are you bringing this equipment with you?
I typically bring my portable stove on every camping trip. Since I enjoy cooking outdoors and preparing my own meals while camping, a portable stove is an essential tool for me to have. It allows me to cook a variety of meals and provides a reliable heat source, regardless of whether or not there are established fire pits or grills at the campsite.
Q: How long is a typical outing for you?
The length of my outdoor trips can vary depending on my schedule and the availability of campsites. Generally, I like to go on trips that are at least a couple of nights long, so that I have enough time to really disconnect from my daily routine and fully immerse myself in the outdoor experience. Typically, my camping trips are between 2-3 nights long, which gives me enough time to explore the surrounding area, relax, and enjoy some quality time with friends or family. However, on occasion, I might plan a longer trip, perhaps for a week or more, if I have the time and resources to do so.
Q: What locations do you usually go to?
I like to explore different locations and campsites when I go camping. Living in the Bay Area, I'm lucky to have access to a variety of beautiful outdoor spaces, from the coast to the mountains. Some of my favorite camping destinations in the area include:
Yosemite National Park
Point Reyes
National Seashore
Big Sur
Lake Tahoe
Mount Tamalpais State Park
Pinnacles National Park
Each of these locations offers unique outdoor experiences and beautiful natural scenery. I like to choose my camping destination based on factors such as proximity, availability of campsites, and the types of outdoor activities I'm interested in doing, such as hiking, fishing, or swimming.
Q: Does what foods you prepare and enjoy change depending what location you are at?
What I eat while camping might vary depending on the location I'm visiting. For example, if I'm camping in a coastal area, I might incorporate more seafood into my meals, such as grilled fish or shrimp. If I'm camping in a mountainous region, I might focus more on hearty meals like chili or stew to keep me warm in colder temperatures. Additionally, if I'm camping in a remote area without easy access to grocery stores or markets, I might plan meals that are more shelf-stable and easy to transport, such as canned goods or dehydrated meals. That being said, the basic types of meals I prepare while camping don't change dramatically based on location. I typically still prepare a variety of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options that are easy to make outdoors using my portable stove or campfire, regardless of where I'm camping. However, I do try to incorporate local and seasonal ingredients into my meals whenever possible, which can vary depending on the location and time of year.
-CATEGORY 2-
Q: Have you ever used electric cooking equipment during any outdoor activities?
I have not personally used electric cooking equipment during any of my outdoor activities. While there are portable electric stoves and grills available, they require a source of electricity, such as a generator or battery, which can be difficult to obtain in remote camping locations. Additionally, I feel that electric equipment can be less reliable than gas-powered stoves and grills, and may not work as well in inclement weather or other outdoor conditions.
-CATEGORY 3-
Q: If you were to bring your cooking tools from home to the outdoors, without considering electricity and weight, please list three preferred cooking tools and reasons. Please be as detailed as possible.
If I were to bring my cooking tools from home to the outdoors without considering electricity and weight, my preferred cooking tools would be:
Cast iron skillet - A cast iron skillet is a versatile tool that can be used for a wide range of outdoor cooking tasks, from frying bacon and eggs for breakfast to searing steaks for dinner. Cast iron skillets are durable, easy to clean, and can be used on a campfire or portable stove. They also distribute heat evenly, which can be important when cooking over an open flame. Plus, they can last for generations with proper care, making them a great investment for anyone who enjoys outdoor cooking.
Dutch oven - A Dutch oven is another versatile tool that can be used for a variety of outdoor cooking tasks, such as making stews, soups, and casseroles. Dutch ovens are made of heavy cast iron or aluminum, which helps distribute heat evenly and allows food to cook slowly over a long period of time. They can be used on a campfire or portable stove and often come with a tight-fitting lid that helps retain moisture and flavor. Plus, Dutch ovens can be used for baking bread, cakes, and other desserts, which can be a fun and rewarding way to end a camping meal.
Larger, Portable grill - A portable grill is a great tool for outdoor cooking because it allows you to cook a wide range of foods, from burgers and hot dogs to grilled vegetables and fish. Portable grills come in a variety of sizes and styles, from small tabletop models to larger standalone models. They can be fueled by charcoal, propane, or wood, depending on personal preference. Portable grills are easy to use and often come with features such as adjustable temperature controls, removable grates for easy cleaning, and built-in drip trays to catch grease and prevent flare-ups.
Overall, these three tools are versatile, durable, and can be used for a variety of outdoor cooking tasks. While they may be heavier and less portable than other camping cooking tools, they can be a great choice for car camping or other outdoor activities where weight and portability are not a major concern.
Q: What do you find inconvenient or want to improve in your current outdoor cooking experience?
There are a few things that I find inconvenient or would like to improve in my current outdoor cooking experience:
Clean-up - While I enjoy cooking outdoors, clean-up can be a bit of a hassle. In particular, cleaning greasy pots and pans can be challenging without access to hot water and soap. I would like to find a more efficient way to clean my cookware while camping, such as using biodegradable soap and hot water from a portable heater.
Meal planning - While I generally enjoy meal planning and preparation for camping trips, I sometimes find it challenging to come up with creative and tasty meal ideas that can be prepared using limited equipment and ingredients. I would like to find more resources and inspiration for outdoor cooking, such as cookbooks and online forums, to help me expand my repertoire of camping meals.
Storage - While my portable stove and other cooking tools are relatively lightweight and easy to transport, they can take up a lot of space in my car or backpack. I would like to find a more efficient way to store and transport my outdoor cooking gear, such as using compact and collapsible tools or finding a better organizational system for my gear.
Q: How important is cooking and food in your planning and preparation for an outdoor activity?
Cooking and food are very important in my planning and preparation for an outdoor activity. For me, one of the main benefits of camping and spending time in nature is the opportunity to slow down and enjoy the simple pleasures of life, such as a hot meal cooked over an open flame. When planning and preparing for a camping trip, I spend a lot of time thinking about the meals I want to prepare and the equipment and ingredients I will need to do so. I enjoy experimenting with new recipes and techniques, and I find that cooking outdoors can be a fun and rewarding way to connect with nature and other campers. Additionally, I believe that good food can help bring people together and create lasting memories. Sharing meals with friends and family while camping can be a great way to bond and create a sense of community, which is why I place a lot of importance on the cooking and food aspects of my outdoor activities.
Q: Imagine an outdoor activity setting with an electrical supply and whatever electrical cooking equipment you may need. What would your ideal cooking environment and experience be like?
If I had access to an electrical supply and any electrical cooking equipment I may need, my ideal cooking environment and experience would be as follows:
Comfortable seating and prep area - I would like to have a comfortable seating area where I can sit and prepare meals, perhaps with a table and chairs or a built-in countertop. This would make it easier and more enjoyable to prepare meals, especially if I am spending a lot of time cooking.
Well-lit environment - Since outdoor cooking can be challenging in low light conditions, I would want to have a well-lit environment with plenty of lighting options. This would allow me to cook and prepare meals safely and comfortably, even after dark.
Multiple cooking surfaces - With access to electrical cooking equipment, I would like to have multiple cooking surfaces, such as a griddle, oven, and stovetop burners. This would allow me to prepare a wider range of meals and cook multiple dishes at once, which would be especially helpful if I am cooking for a large group.
Climate control - Depending on the weather and time of year, outdoor cooking can be uncomfortable or even dangerous in extreme temperatures. To address this, my ideal cooking environment would have climate control options, such as air conditioning or heat, to ensure that I am comfortable and safe while cooking.
Access to ingredients - Finally, I would want to have easy access to high-quality ingredients, whether that means bringing them from home or sourcing them locally. Having access to fresh, high-quality ingredients would allow me to create delicious and healthy meals while enjoying the convenience and comfort of an electrical cooking environment.
Overall, my ideal cooking environment and experience would be one that is comfortable, well-lit, and well-equipped, with multiple cooking surfaces and climate control options. By creating an optimal cooking environment, I believe that I could expand my outdoor cooking skills and create even more delicious and memorable meals while enjoying the beauty and serenity of the great outdoors.
Q: How do you organize, store, and transport your cooking-related tools?
I organize, store, and transport my cooking-related tools in the following ways:
Organization - Before a camping trip, I make a list of all the cooking tools and equipment I will need and organize them by type (e.g. pots and pans, utensils, portable stove). I then pack them into separate bags or containers to keep them organized and easy to access while camping.
Storage - When not in use, I store my cooking-related tools in a dry, cool place to prevent damage from moisture or extreme temperatures. I have a dedicated space in my home where I keep all my camping gear, including my cooking tools, which makes it easy to find and pack everything when it's time for a trip.
Transport - To transport my cooking-related tools, I usually use a large duffel bag or tote bag with multiple compartments. I pack the heavier items at the bottom and place the more fragile items, such as glass jars or plates, in the middle with other items around them for added protection. I also try to pack items in a logical order so that they are easy to access when I need them.
Overall, by organizing, storing, and transporting my cooking-related tools in a systematic way, I am able to keep my gear in good condition and make sure that I have everything I need for a successful outdoor cooking experience. Additionally, by using dedicated bags or containers for my cooking tools, I am able to keep them separate from other camping gear, which helps prevent damage and makes it easier to find what I need when it's time to cook a meal.
Q: How do you typically clean your equipment?
I typically clean my equipment in the following way:
Wipe off any excess food - Before washing, I first wipe off any excess food or debris from the cookware or utensils with a paper towel or scraper.
Wash with soap and hot water - I then use hot, soapy water to wash the cookware and utensils thoroughly. I use a scrub brush or sponge to remove any stuck-on food and make sure to clean both the inside and outside of the cookware.
Rinse with hot water - After washing, I rinse the cookware and utensils with hot water to remove any soap residue.
Dry thoroughly - Finally, I dry the cookware and utensils thoroughly with a clean towel or by placing them on a drying rack. I make sure to dry both the inside and outside of the cookware to prevent any rust or corrosion.
If I am camping in a location where hot water and soap are not available, such as a backcountry campsite, I may use alternative methods to clean my equipment, such as boiling water or using biodegradable soap and a scrub brush. It's important to leave no trace and not contaminate the surrounding environment when cleaning dishes and utensils outdoors.
Overall, by cleaning my equipment thoroughly after each use, I am able to prevent food buildup, maintain the quality of my cookware, and ensure that my meals are safe and hygienic.
