Aussie Bush Bacon & Jalapeño Cheese Dip in a Camp Oven

 

Gather around the campfire, mates! This gooey cheese dip, with a smoky kick from bacon and a hint of jalapeño, is perfect for your bush camping trips. Roasted garlic and a dash of beer only add to its outback appeal. Best enjoyed with a cold beverage and the sound of kookaburras in the background.

Ingredients:

• 250 grams of cream cheese
• 250 grams of shredded mozzarella
• 250 grams smoked gouda, diced
• 1-2 large jalapeño, deseeded and thinly sliced
• 4 rashers of cooked, crispy bacon, chopped
• Roasted Garlic (bundle some cloves in foil and roast on the fire until fragrant)
• 120 ml Aussie brew (choose your favourite local beer)

Preparation Time & Cooking Time:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

Steps:

1. Prep the Ingredients: Make sure your cheeses are ready to go. The roasted garlic should be soft and fragrant, and the bacon should be crispy but not overly dry.
2. Assemble in the Camp Oven: Combine cream cheese, mozzarella, gouda, jalapeño slices, roasted garlic, and beer in your Camp oven. Mix them well, ensuring the ingredients meld together.
3. Ready the Coals: To achieve a rough temperature of 175°C (350°F), arrange 5 coals beneath your 8-inch Camp oven and 11 coals on its lid. Regularly turning ensures even heating. Remember, bush cooking often requires intuition and a watchful eye.
4. Cooking Time: Place your Camp oven over the prepared coals. Let the cheese dip bake for about 20 minutes or until it's all melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top. Rotate the lid and the Camp oven every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
5. Final Touch: Once the cheese dip is thoroughly melted and heated through, remove it from the coals. Sprinkle the crispy bacon bits on top for a smoky crunch.

Tips:

• Serving Suggestions: This hearty cheese dip is best enjoyed with some salty pretzels, bush damper, or crackers.
• Adjust Heat: Adjust the jalapeño amount according to your heat preference.
• Beer Choices: Go for a hearty Australian ale to enhance the depth of flavour in the dip.
• Safety: Remember, that the Camp oven will be hot! Use appropriate gloves or tools when handling.

No worries, this dip will be a hit in any Aussie camp gathering. Enjoy the outback and this delicious treat!