Where Cooking Begins Again
Cooking over fire is older than language. It’s primal, instinctive, and deeply human — and no material is better suited to it than cast iron. From slow campfire stews to seared vegetables under the stars, cast iron turns any flame into a kitchen.
It’s not just about camping. Cooking over fire builds flavour you can’t create indoors. Smoke, direct heat, and natural caramelisation combine to make food taste more alive. And with the right pan, the process is simple, reliable, and deeply satisfying.
The Legacy Pan was made for this. Built for all heat sources and backed by our Three Generation Guarantee, it’s as at home on a campfire as it is on a hob.
Why Cast Iron Is Ideal for Fire Cooking
Unmatched Heat Retention
Flame cooking is unpredictable. Cast iron’s density absorbs and distributes heat evenly, turning flickering flames into a stable cooking surface.
All-Environment Durability
Non-stick pans warp, enamel chips, and stainless steel bends. Cast iron doesn’t flinch. It’s virtually indestructible, even in the roughest conditions.
Natural Flavour Enhancement
The combination of smoke, seasoning, and high heat produces layers of flavour that no other cookware can match. The more you use it outdoors, the more character your pan develops.
Essential Techniques for Fire Cooking
1. Build the Right Fire
A good cooking fire is about coals, not flames. Let wood burn down until you have a steady bed of glowing embers. This gives you even, controllable heat.
2. Preheat Slowly
Cast iron absorbs heat gradually. Place it near, not directly over, the hottest part of the fire to warm up. Once it’s hot, move it closer to sear or cook.
3. Control Temperature with Distance
Flame height isn’t the only way to control heat. Moving the pan closer to or further from the embers can make the difference between a gentle simmer and a hard sear.
4. Use Lids and Foil Wisely
A lid traps heat and smoke, acting like an oven. Foil wrapped around vegetables or bread bakes them gently in their own steam.
What to Cook Over Fire in Cast Iron
Searing and Grilling
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Steaks, halloumi, mushrooms, and courgettes develop intense crust and flavour.
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Preheat well, sear without moving, and finish further from the flames.
One-Pan Meals
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Stews, curries, and bean dishes simmer beautifully in steady heat.
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Add liquid gradually to control temperature and depth of flavour.
Flatbreads and Bannock
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Cast iron’s radiant heat makes excellent outdoor bread.
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Cook directly in the pan or on the underside flipped over hot coals.
Desserts
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Cobblers, crisps, and even brownies bake perfectly under coals.
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Cover with a lid and heap embers on top for even, oven-like heat.
Explore our Cast Iron Care Guide →
Tips for Success
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Avoid sudden temperature shocks: Don’t place a cold pan on a blazing fire. Warm it gradually.
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Use long-handled tools: Flames and coals make short tools dangerous.
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Oil lightly: Too much oil can cause flare-ups.
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Clean on-site: Wipe out residue before the pan cools completely.
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Re-season if needed: Outdoor cooking can strip seasoning. A quick oil and bake when home keeps it strong.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Cooking over flames: Flames burn food and heat unevenly. Wait for coals.
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Neglecting preheat: Cold cast iron won’t sear or cook evenly.
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Using thin cookware: Only cast iron can handle repeated fire exposure.
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Forgetting to dry: Outdoor moisture can cause rust if not removed.
Why Fire Cooking Matters
Cooking over fire slows you down. It demands patience and attention. It asks you to listen to the hiss of fat, watch for ember glow, and smell the moment ingredients transform. Cast iron makes that process more forgiving — and more rewarding. It’s the bridge between ancient cooking and the way we cook now.
FAQs
Can I use cast iron directly on flames?
Yes, but coals give more even heat. Flames are best for quick searing or finishing.
Will cooking over fire damage my pan?
No. Cast iron is built for high heat. Just avoid thermal shock and re-oil afterward.
How do I clean my pan after cooking outside?
Scrape and wipe while warm, rinse with water when home, dry thoroughly, and oil lightly.
Can I bake bread or desserts over a fire?
Yes. Use a lid or coals on top to create an oven effect for baking.
Does smoke affect the seasoning?
It can enhance it. Smoke often deepens the pan’s patina and adds flavour to food.
Final Thought
Cooking over fire reconnects you to the oldest form of nourishment. And with cast iron, it’s not a struggle — it’s a pleasure. A single pan, a handful of wood, and a little patience are all you need to make something truly timeless.
