Celebrate the Old West!

Howdy Partners!

Cowboy Contributions is a fun collection of recipes from our Spark Brothers and Sisters to celebrate the Old West!

There are some great camping recipes that you and your kids can cook over an open fire.

And enjoy the mini tutorial on outdoors cooking methods with a cast iron Dutch Oven.

Try some of these fun recipes for picnics, Cowboy Theme Parties, elegant Tex Mex Theme Parties and/or special events! Have fun!!

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

The recipes are listed in the following categories:

1. How To Win a Cowboy's Heart!
2. Cowgirl Cuisine
3. Around The Campfire
4. Chuckwagon Camp
5. Dutch Oven Cooking ~ Roasting Wild Game & Meats
6. Campfire Cooking and Collecting Camping Cookware
7. Tex Mex Cuisine
8. Texas / Mexico Cuisine
9. Tex Mex Cowboy

Thank you for stopping by Partners!
Love,
Vera

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Apple Brown Betty

Submitted by BUFFCESSNA

Submitted by FAITHSTEPHENSON

These are one of our favorites when we get the hankering for some good home barbecued food. We used to use Sweet Baby Ray's Barbecue Sauce but have found a new, much easier on the diet grilling sauce put out by Sweet Baby Ray.

The ribs themselves yield about 1/3 to 1/4 of their weight as edible meat. So of the 2 packs of ribs where the combined weight is 260 oz. we figure the overall yield is roughly 65 oz. The rest is bone, fat and cartiledge.

These ribs are absolutely one of our favorite meals.

They're served best with a baked potato (make mine a yam), a tossed salad, a side of vegetable (I like steamed asparagus).

Prep is minimal when you already have your grilling sauce on hand.

Submitted by FYRCOP

This doesn't taste like Burger King's rodeo burger, but it certainly is inspired by it. I love cheese and BBQ sauce on beef, chicken and pretty much anything. But as I was trying eat healthier I had to find new ways to incorporate this. This is a great main dish for picky eaters as there aren't any veggies in it, but you can easily add some diced tomatoes, chopped onions to it to add some more nutrients and flavor. The recipe despite being lengthy is actually very simple and can be done in 45 minutes total time. I was just very detailed.

This pairs great with a steamed vegetable like green beans, broccoli, peas, asparagus and/corn. I also serve it with light garlic bread.

Also goes well on a bun for a hearty sandwich.

Submitted by 4ME_4LIFE

So delicious and tender.

Submitted by CHRYSTALOATES83

A lightly sweet, whole grain bread similar to cornbread. Low in fat.

Submitted by RELOUDEN

Submitted by BANKGIRLCC

Adapted from the "Beef: It's what's for dinner" website. I lowered the sodium, fat, calories per serving and added a few seasonings and beans. The beans make is very filling without adding calories or fat! Super quick and easy to make and really stretches out a pound of ground beef!

Submitted by ORANGECOWCAT

easy ground beef mix over cornbread crust and topped with cheese.

Submitted by JENSMA

Great for a cold day

Submitted by LDANCING

I make this and portion out for me and my husband's lunches all week. He likes a side of green beans and I put mine on top of a spinach salad. You can also put this in an Ezekial wrap if you want a "sloppy joe" experience!

Submitted by PHITNPHAT

This is the buffalo version of Joy of Cooking's Chile con Carne.

Submitted by CYD1057

This recipe was developed by Freeme1980, a creative goddess in the kitchen!

Submitted by SHUTRBUG1

This jerky is high protein and low fat. Perfect for a snack on the go! 1 oz. is approximately 60 calories, 0.5 grams fat, and 15 grams protein!

Submitted by BANANAFISH711

These buckwheat cakes were made by my Mother and her Mother. My Dad's Mother also made them the same way.

Submitted by FRITZWILLIE

Cold, it crunches and pops in your mouth with a bold, nutty taste. Hot, it becomes smooth and more mellow. Either way, buckwheat (kasha) is a healthy, hearty breakfast.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

It’s comfort food on a fork. I've made it two times in 3 weeks. Think shepherd's pieish, with a wicked twist. A delicious mix of hamburger, cheese and corn sandwiched in between a layer of crunchy tots.

Submitted by JSUELLIS

This is from page 196 of "The Comfort Food Diet" cookbook
Try serving this mild chili-like dish with tortilla chips or flour tortillas. Since it cooks up in a single pot, it's perfect for camping, too.

Submitted by SHARONGRR

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Very fresh & delicious salad which is a perfect compliment for grilled meat.

Submitted by LOOKING_UP

This is a delicious and creamy dip that's great for small get togethers.

Submitted by CEFUHR

This is a very fresh tasting salad that even the kiddos enjoy.

Submitted by CEFUHR

4 points. Need a break from classic chicken salad? This tasty version is chockfull of vegetables and beans, and then spiked with cumin and chili powder.

Submitted by BELLATROTTA

I love faux frying foods using panko. This crunchy, spicy chicken would be great on a taco salad.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Submitted by MSDESERTRODENT

This is a delicious alternative to fried chicken for those who like a crunch!

Submitted by SARAH25

Loaded with flavor and ultra satisfying

Submitted by RED_TULIPS

Submitted by ELAINEHN

Zesty Fiesta Salad!

Submitted by LYNNETXRN

Submitted by MJPOLL01

I love spicy foods and often crave something with a lot of flavor. Add some chicken, tuna, or shrimp if you like. I mix the greens and veggies based on what's in season and what's in my fridge.

Submitted by ITSASIMPLELIFE

A yummy, cow-friendly stew.

Submitted by VEGGIEHAPPINESS

Inspired by Hodgson Mill's Buckwheat-Corn Muffins Receipe

Submitted by CHIKAPATEL

A spicy but smooth new way to enjoy those little birds

Submitted by WYOMINGSCARLETT

McDougall Main Dish from The McDougall Program for Maximum Weight Loss

Submitted by BEVNPICARD

Submitted by TEXASDEB170

"This is kinda interestin' to fix, but a lot more interestin' to eat."

Submitted by BURRC515

Somthing to Spice up Diner

Submitted by SBODANIE

Submitted by JENSPEN99

Tasty taco filling in a flaky crust.

Submitted by SAREEZEE

A quick and delicious lunch!

Submitted by HLOOSHA

This is very easy to make and my daughter helped put this together.

Submitted by READY2BFIT2009

Submitted by WILSONMOM1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Native Americans have had Bannock cooking over a campfire for many many years. It's now becoming popular with campers.

Prepare a favorite bannock recipe, bake in an oven or divide the dough into egg sized lumps and firmly wrap each lump around the end of a four foot stick. Prop the stick securely over the fire until golden brown. Turn the stick to cook the bread evenly.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by DAZEY333

A decedent way to get in a serving of fruit.

Submitted by KEVINKELLY

Submitted by GUNIVERA

My husband always orders these when we go out so I decided to make them at home and he LOVED them!!

Submitted by HOTOMALE

Submitted by HSEIDE2

Here's a clever way to stretch your meat budget a little--and to "stuff" lots of tangy flavor into an American classic! If you've never considered serving chili on a bun, keep this recipe handy for your next family camping trip.

Submitted by MAMA3BEARS

Submitted by ALLSWEETALI

Quick Yummy Chicken and Veggies

Submitted by HOTMOM2_3_2B

A quick cleanup dinner for at home or camping.

Submitted by COASTERSJ

For those who love the outdoors and would love some campfire cooking indoors.

Submitted by RDEFASSI

Prep before you camp and enjoy sweet potatoes with onion and green bell peppers.

Submitted by NOLLIE_KIKFLIP

Foil packets of hamburger patties and vegetables of your choice, typically baked in the coals of a campfire, are a fun treat for the kids!

Submitted by BNEYGL89

A fried cornbread, crisp on outside, chewy in middle.

Submitted by TREEPARKER

Lunch or Dinner

Submitted by TOMILCLARKE

Submitted by PINGUINLVR

THIS MEAL MAY BE COOKED OVER A CAMPFIRE, ON A GRILL, OR IN THE OVEN. IT IS EASY TO PREPARE WITH VERY LITTLE CLEAN UP. IT IS GREAT FOR COMPANY.

Submitted by CLARA.MCSPADDEN

Lemon seasoned salmon dinner made in an aluminum pouch over campfire

Submitted by EBPOOKIE

Submitted by TALIFACE

Submitted by PAMTHEDREAMER

Equipment Needed:
Bread/camping Iron (can be found in camping section)
Spoon, Knife

I was taught how to make these deliciously simple desserts while I was camping with my shooting sports club.
These are great anytime; breakfast, lunch, snacks, etc.

Submitted by MYANIMALS22

If you are tired of the same old campfire food, kick it up a bit with this elegant mountain pie. It is light, flavorful and a lot healthier than the traditional pizza mountain pie.

Submitted by ADAILY087

Submitted by GUNIVERA

My dad used to make these "cowpie" cookies--a fudgy drop cookie made with chocolate, peanut butter, oats, and butter. I decided to make a single serve cookie that tastes just as good, with a lot less calories and fat. And by making it single-serve, there is no chance I'll eat the entire batch! :)

Submitted by SLIMKATIE

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by NORTHERNWOMEN

A Tasty Chili Recipe

Submitted by ITSMEE1970

Submitted by ANNE_SP

Try whole wheat pasta, or a low fat cheddar cheese soup to lighten up this recipe. You could also use lean ground beef in place of the turkey. The original recipe calls for 4 servings, however, you could also have 6 smaller servings.

Submitted by DVINEINSANITY

Submitted by MIAREAA

Quick breakfast made over the campfire or in the oven, very filling! Modified from Cowboy Quiche recipe from camping club website.

Submitted by KATREENI

My daughter learned to cook this recipe while at Girl Scout camp a few years ago. It is a must have at every camping trip we take. It is simple to do and a family fun activity for campfire fun! Serve with salad and rolls for a complete meal.

Submitted by MDSHEPARD

similar to a tortilla but made with yeast

Submitted by DAIDAKAI

just deer stew meat sauted in onions and garlic

Submitted by BLUEEYEDBEAUTI

Submitted by VOKALKORD

This is a quick and easy meal that my family loves.

Submitted by F.SILVI

This is a family staple while camping! Very good, very quick (for cooking over a fire), and very easy!

Submitted by DANCERWANNABE

A tasty way to get your veggies during BBQ season

Submitted by EMMAPALE

Mom makes this slow cooked crock pot veggie soup with beef. I made a very low key alternative that is easy enough to make over a campfire or for a college student.

Submitted by ANDICOONS

Most any meal that you can cook in a Dutch Oven at home can be easily prepared outdoors using a 12" DEEP Cast Iron Dutch Oven.

Start coals 20 minutes before cooking.

1. Heat your Dutch Oven at your camp site using 20-22 hot coals placed underneath the oven.

2. Heat the oven until it is hot.

3. When it is hot, place the food in the oven and replace the lid.

4. Use half of the coals spread evenly underneath the oven and spread the rest evenly on top of the lid.

The oven will be hot enough to cook your food. Simple!

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

1. Start coals 20 minutes before cooking. Get a fire going to where you have a bed of long lasting slow-burning charcoals. You may have to check and add more fuel during cooking time.
2. Using 20-25 briquettes underneath, heat oil in a 12" deep Dutch Oven until the oven is hot.
3. Brown the roast, onions. Add Garlic; cook 1 minute.
4. Add chicken stock or mushroom soup slowly into Dutch Oven. Cover and put on the the hot coals for two and a half hours.
5. Cover and reduce briquettes to 12 beneath the oven and the rest on top of the lid.
6. At the end of two and a half hours, add carrots, potatoes or vegetables of choice. Season to taste. Cover and continue baking 30- 45 more minutes.
7. Every campfire is different. Check for doneness.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

This is an easy, tender, delicious bear roast that you can cook over night in a crock pot or in your Dutch Oven at the campsite.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Slow Roast or Crockpot overnight or roast in your Dutch Oven at the campsite!

Your choice. Either cook your wild boar leg in the oven at a low temperature for several hours.

Or brown it on all sides in a large cast iron skillet, place in a a slow cooker with a can each of Onion Soup, Mushroom Soup and water.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Cook overnight and stick a few cloves in wild game meats to reduce their wild game taste. Great for Dutch Oven at Campsite.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Here is a great recipe for old fashioned biscuits...and I do mean old.
It was found in an 1842 diary of Alice Stephans. She stated that it had been in her family for generations. She baked them in a Dutch oven and sometimes used what we now know as a "reflector fire." I use this recipe when camping and it is GREAT!

Submitted by BCD123

an easy to make, delicious, and viatmin packed meal

Submitted by JPGITCH

Submitted by MRSESTEWART

http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2010/12/chicken-and-dumplings/

Submitted by RHOORN

in the summer we cook a lot of dutch oven - it's outside! This was an experiment on lasagna to see how it would be with chicken and cooked in the dutch oven.

Submitted by SPAZWRITER

Also needed: Dutch Oven, 20-22 briquettes

Submitted by RASMITH0506

This recipe comes from the Marla Rawlings book "the beginner's GUIDE to dutch oven cooking"

Submitted by BLACKBELTPILOT

This is a dish I serve in winter. It is a little high in calories but a big hit with the family.

Submitted by WELLSRUS

This is a good old fashioned stew recipie. the meat becomes tender and succulent, and you can't beat these light herby dumplings. Clean plates all round!

Submitted by ANGETRACE

Campfire Cooking and Camping Cookware are different from cooking at home on a stove.

Pretty doesn't matter, it's durable functionality that is the most important factor.

The cast iron Dutch oven is is heavy, durable, and even legendary.

It is the one piece of camping cookware that is unmatched by any competing cookware.

So for best results, plan on buying a cast iron Dutch oven and lids, you will be surprised how often you need a lid to simmer some special camp recipe.

When you are cooking over a bed of hot coals, there is heat all around, not just under the skillet or pot.

When dealing with dancing flames, the last thing you want is a piece of cookware with plastic or rubber handles.

Stick with brand names such as Camp Chef and Lodge, their quality is the standard and your Dutch oven will last in your family for hundreds of years.

Thank you:
Gary House, of Cooking-Outdoors.com

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

From basic must-have pieces to the extras that make camp meal preparation easier, these pieces of camping cookware will help you get the job done when it is your turn to be the camp cook:

Dutch Oven- 12" oven with a flat top to hold coals

2 Skillets - one large, one medium or small

Pots - one large, (4 - 6-gt.), and one med. 2-qt.- with lids

Pans - one 1-qt. pan

2 Cooking spatulas with a non-metallic blade

2 Large serving spoons

Large chef-style knife

Paring knife

Cutting Board

These are the bare-bones basics that will cook a satisfying variety of camp meals.

If you plan to camp regularly get a campfire cooking grill/grate.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Great for campouts.

Submitted by 12004RILEY

This is a great camping dessert!

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

This is so good and so easy! Great camping recipe & everyone loved it.

Submitted by LANEYTEN

a family favorite with no added sugars

Submitted by SPAZWRITER

this can be done with any fruit.

Submitted by SREGENFUSS

Submitted by PKALLIS

This is a tried and true recipe from "Everyday Dutch Oven".

Use a 12 inch dutch oven lined with parchment paper. It takes about 30 minutes to bake with 10 coals in a ring around the bottom and about 20 on top. Rotate the oven halfway through and check to make sure the cake isn't browning too quickly and move a few coals from the center of the lid to the outside during the last 5 minutes of cooking time.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by REDLY65

a great way to cook in the summer but I don't like coconut frosting, so we didn't put any on. I'm sure you could add it after things cooled off. Lift out the cake and overturn on a plate to frost.

Submitted by SPAZWRITER

excellent way to cook in the summer!

Submitted by SPAZWRITER

adapted from the recipe in the Xagave cook book for Whole wheat carrot pineapple cake

Submitted by SPAZWRITER

Creamy, thick, tangy, yogurty, probiotic vegan yogurt made in your Dutch Oven!

Submitted by HOLYBLUEGENES

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

drunk chicken with rice

Submitted by MSCANELA

Delicious lovely summer drink!

Submitted by PAINTANDSOUL

A delicious soup - serve hot OR cold.
If you wish, top with a bit of reduced fat sour cream, slice of lime, and sprinkle of cilantro.

Submitted by TONSERS

Submitted by SUPERBIEN

Ole!!

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Iced tea with a kick

Submitted by DOODLESOUP

A match made in heaven: fresh mango-black bean salsa with spicy, citrusy chicken.

Submitted by CMSTOY

Refreshing, low-cal, low-carb cocktail. Add a splash of peach schnaps, strawberry soda, or triple sec for more sweetness, if desired.

Submitted by LAURAG1

Simple and DELICIOUS Chicken Adobo. Serves 1

Submitted by POPCORNPUNCH

An estimated per glass serving on the white wine sangria punch I made for a party. Was served in a much larger quantity bowl.

Submitted by BRANDI_MICHELLE

Everyone gets his own portion with this fun, vegetarian, Tex-Mex mini casserole. A normal-size casserole like this would take close to an hour to bake—these are ready in half the time. Heatproof ramekins are a cook’s best friend—we use them all the time to hold ingredients while cooking. You can buy them at most grocery stores. Make it a meal: Enjoy with steamed corn tortillas and salsa on the side.

Submitted by SUNNEYACRES

Submitted by COULEURVANILLE

Submitted by AHALTOM

Join the ViSalus Body By Vi 90-Day Challenge!
http://crystalcriswell.bodybyvi.com

Submitted by CRYSTALCRISWELL

Submitted by LCERNY

One of my favorite drinks. The calories are not bad at all. Great to make one pitcher and enjoy with friends.

Submitted by ALIBJ572

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by MLAMEIR

This is a light version of the original heavy Irish Cream Cocktail.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Great fresh Baja taste without empty calories

Submitted by TAZANGEL36

Refreshing!

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Haven't tried it yet myself but sounds delicious

Submitted by SHANNON_A06

Sweet and dangerous at the same time.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Healthier version of traditional dish

Submitted by TAZANGEL36

This is a yummy, healthy breakfast option

Submitted by JULIEHOY

Jalapeno halves stuffed with cheese, then baked.

Submitted by MACGHARVEY

YUMMY...YUMMY...
Bonus: Watermelon is filled with the cancer-fighting antioxidant lycopene. Bottoms up!

Submitted by RKLAGER

Lots of ingredients, but not hard to make. Follow the recipe, and you'll be fine. This makes a ton, but it freezes well and is great over shredded chicken and rice!

Submitted by SCHNOZZLES

I have been a daiquiri aficionado for years and have been in search of the perfect strawberry daiquiri. This is a recipe I got from the floating club Patricia in Stockholm. The barman made me an amazing daiquiri. Enjoy!

Submitted by FATIMAMADAR

This is a very easy and inexpensive recipe to make!

Roasting your peppers will give them a richer level of flavor. This recipe uses De Jarbol and Japones Chile Peppers. Just grill or broil for a few minutes and let them char a little bit to add a smokey flavor to your dish. Enjoy!

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Low calorie margarita

Submitted by RACENECK2000

Slow Roasted Rabbit

Submitted by CHAMUCA48

Refreshing!! Rejuvenating on a hot afternoon.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

So, you are looking for something you can cook over an open fire while out on the trail? Well, why don't you try a little rattlesnake for your dinner by the camp fire?

Buy the meat already dressed. Please don't try to hunt one of these bad boys down just to see what he tastes like.

I read that rattlesnakes can still bite you after it has been dead for over an hour. So, if you do hunt one down, chop the head off and dispose of it immediately.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Rattlesnake Cocktail

1 1/2 oz Whiskey
1 tsp Lemon Juice
1/2 oz Southern Comfort
1 Egg White
1 tsp Splenda

Shake all ingredients with ice.
Strain into a cocktail glass.
Garnish with a a slice of lemon and a cherry.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Use small red or green bell peppers or poblano peppers for this baked variation of chiles rellenos

Submitted by CAVERJEN

Margaritaville

Submitted by JKT1983

This is a "dry" rub for pork but could be used on other meats as well. It is perfect way to add some flavor to an otherwise bland cut of pork. It is spicy-warm and sweet and crispy on the outside with all the juices on the inside just waiting for you to cut in and take a bite.

Submitted by SARA772779

Submitted by CUEPID

Fast Recipe. The flavor combination of cumin, chile, coriander and cinnamon is characteristic of latin american cooking and is esp good with pork.

Submitted by HERCKLE

My Cuban De Lite!

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Cooking Light shrimp / salad recipe, light and delicious. Easy!

Submitted by NSL8898

Great Taste & Fun Way to Relax or Cool Down!

Submitted by EEDAVISJR

These sandwiches are reminiscent of the Sloppy Joes many of us enjoyed as kids. Updated version by using lower fat ground turkey and adding some healthy veggies to the sauce, The finer you dice the carrots and peppers, the less likely your kids will be able to detect them.

Submitted by EMCAZIER

A classic Mocktail. I replaced regular cola with diet cola and...well, that's about it :P Still good to know the calorie calculations, though.

Submitted by KENNEDI3

Submitted by CELTIC_WITCH

This is an outstanding Cocktail Hour treat! Be careful, you are not dealing with a regular cup of tea even though it tastes like it.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

I have made this recipe twice and I love it. It is super quick to make and you can reduce the calories by not eating the avocado and using less of the sauce.

Submitted by MARULLOS

Guanabana (Soursop)

Submitted by MARITZABAEZ

Submitted by L_MOORE

Submitted by JACINDA222

Roasted peppers and almonds pair with fresh parsley in this tangy Spanish-inspired sauce.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

WW Point Value per Serving: 2

Submitted by LASTCHANCE651

Great Recipe, Inexpensive and you can freeze up to 3 additional meals!

Submitted by UCANBHOLD

Perfect Summer Relaxer.

Submitted by THEKORRIGAN

Submitted by RUCKINREDHEAD

Submitted by EJMELI