Heres Some Camping Tips & Tricks at Your Fingertips
Our Knoxville Campground Blog is the information you need to make your next camping trip in Tennessee even more enjoyable. From RV and camping tips and tricks, to amazing campfire recipes, to advice on planning your next trip in Knoxville, TN... the information below is here to help you. And please, feel free to comment and share your experiences, knowledge and favorite recipes. At Knoxville Campground, we are a family and all here to help each other enjoy the great outdoors to the fullest!
Potato Pancakes Recipe
Here’s a classic recipe for delicious potato pancakes, also known as “latkes”:
Ingredients:
- 4 medium potatoes (about 2 lbs), peeled
- 1 small onion, finely grated
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
- Grate the Potatoes: Using a box grater or a food processor with a grating attachment, grate the potatoes. Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, finely grated onion, beaten eggs, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. You can test if the oil is hot enough by dropping a small piece of potato into the oil; it should sizzle immediately.
- Form Pancakes: Take about 1/4 cup of the potato mixture in your hand and gently flatten it to form a pancake, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Carefully place it into the hot oil. Repeat with more potato mixture, leaving space between pancakes in the skillet.
- Fry the Pancakes: Fry the pancakes for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to carefully flip them halfway through cooking. Adjust the heat if necessary to maintain a steady sizzle without burning.
- Drain and Serve: Once cooked, transfer the potato pancakes to a paper towel-lined plate or a wire rack to drain excess oil.
- Serve Warm: Serve the potato pancakes warm, optionally with sour cream, applesauce, or your favorite toppings.
Tips:
- Variations: Add grated garlic, chopped herbs (like parsley or dill), or grated cheese to the potato mixture for extra flavor.
- Keep Warm: If making a large batch, you can keep the cooked pancakes warm in a 200°F (93°C) oven until ready to serve.
- Storage: Leftover pancakes can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days and reheated in the oven or toaster oven.
Enjoy these crispy and comforting potato pancakes as a side dish or a main course, perfect for any meal of the day at Knoxville Campground!
Campfire Steak, Potato, and Mushroom Kabobs
Campfire steak, potato, and mushroom kabobs are a delightful and hearty dish, perfect for outdoor gatherings or camping trips. Here’s a simple recipe to create these flavorful kabobs:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) sirloin steak, cut into cubes
- 1 lb (450g) baby potatoes, halved
- 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, cleaned and halved
- 1 onion, cut into chunks
- 2 bell peppers, cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers
Instructions:
1. Prepare the marinade:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the steak:
- Place the cubed steak in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over it. Make sure the steak is evenly coated. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or ideally up to 4 hours.
3. Preheat the grill or campfire:
- If you’re using a grill, preheat it to medium-high heat. If you’re cooking over a campfire, make sure you have a good bed of hot coals.
4. Prepare the skewers:
- Thread the marinated steak, halved baby potatoes, mushrooms, onion chunks, and bell pepper chunks onto the skewers, alternating between the ingredients.
5. Grill the kabobs:
- Place the assembled kabobs on the preheated grill or over the campfire. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, or until the steak is cooked to your desired doneness and the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
6. Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the kabobs from the grill or campfire and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Enjoy these delicious campfire steak, potato, and mushroom kabobs with your favorite side dishes and dipping sauces!
Get this full meal on one stick on your next camping trip to Knoxville Campground!
Family owned and operated, Kiefer Campgrounds strive to offer you the best rates for a comfortable location with outstanding service, and spotless facilities. When you stay in one of our parks, you are no longer just a happy camper, but a part of our family! We are most certain you will enjoy your stay with us. Pick your favorite location and book your spot now before it’s too late! You’ll be happy you did!
