Mastering Camp Oven Cooking By Jack Absalom Cookbook

Learn from Jack Absalom the original camp oven bush cooking legend. His simple yet awesome camp oven recipes are perfect for any camping trip. If there’s one name that stands out in the world of camp oven cooking, it’s Jack Absalom. A true Aussie legend. Jack is the undisputed “OG” of camp oven cookbooks.

Jack Absalom’s book Outback Cooking in the Camp Oven has been a game changer for so many of us who love the simplicity and charm of camp oven cooking. It was more than 20 years ago when I first stumbled across his camp oven cookbook and honestly, it was this book that sparked my obsession with camp oven cooking. Jack Absalom isn’t just a name in our camp kitchen – he’s a hero and a deadset legend.

Jack And Reg Absalom Book Outback Cooking In The Camp Oven

Who Is Jack Absalom?

Jack Absalom is as Aussie as it gets. An outback artist, author, bushman and television personality. Born in 1927 in Port Augusta, South Australia, Jack had a deep connection with the bush from an early age. He was known first and foremost for his paintings of the Australian outback. But it’s his skills in camp oven cooking that made him known to me. A household name for anyone who enjoys life on the road or a good bush tucker feed.

His travels took him all over the wild outback and it was during these journeys that he perfected the art of cooking with nothing more than a camp oven. Some basic ingredients and a fire. He taught generations of Aussies how to create meals in the most remote places. Making his book Outback Cooking in the Camp Oven the ultimate guide to mastering bush cooking.

For me Jack wasn’t just a cook. He was and still is an inspiration. The man could whip up a hearty meal with barely any ingredients all while surrounded by the harsh yet stunning Australian wilderness. No fancy kitchen gadgets, no electricity, just a hot fire and a camp oven.

How I Came Across Camp Oven Cooking By Jack Absalom’s Book

It was about 20 years ago when I first came across Jack Absalom’s book. I was looking through a used bookstore front window in Cootamundra. When I saw the cover of Outback Cooking in the Camp Oven staring back at me. I had heard about this book from someone, I can’t remember who it was now. I’d just bought a camp oven so I went in and bought it.

Up until that point cooking while camping was just something I did on a little two burner cooker. But with Jack’s easy-to-follow recipes and laid back approach I realised that cooking in the bush could be fun. From his damper recipe to a simple roast chook, Jack’s no fuss style of cooking gave me the confidence to experiment with camp ovens and eventually make it a core part of my camping.

Jack Absalom: The OG Of Camp Oven Cooking

Before there were endless YouTube tutorials and gourmet bush cooking shows there was Jack Absalom. And let me tell you no one quite does it like Jack. His charm lies in his simplicity and practicality. He didn’t need flash and flair just a well seasoned camp oven, a good fire and the basic ingredients he could carry with him. And that’s what makes him the OG of camp oven cooking.

Jack’s book isn’t filled with overly complicated techniques or fancy ingredients you can only find in specialty stores. His recipes are for the everyday Aussie, the kind of bloke or lady who wants to whip up a decent feed out in the bush without all the fuss. His style of cooking speaks to the heart of outback life: rough, rugged and hearty.

I reckon a big part of what makes Jack such a legend is his ability to connect with people. He made camp oven cooking accessible to anyone. His recipes are straightforward. His instructions are easy to follow and his attitude towards cooking is relaxed and fun. It’s like having old mate Jack by your side guiding you through every step of the way.

What Makes Outback Cooking In The Camp Oven Special?

The book isn’t just a collection of recipes it’s wisdom from a bloke who’s spent loads of time perfecting his craft. Jack not only shares recipes but also tips and tricks on how to get the most out of your camp oven. From choosing the right kind of wood for your fire to knowing when the coals are just right for baking bread Jack’s knowledge is worth its weight in gold.

osso Buco in A Spun Steel Camp Oven

A Few Of My Favourite Recipes From The Book

One of the best parts of Outback Cooking in the Camp Oven is its variety. Whether you’re after a simple stew or something sweet to finish off the night Jack’s book has got you covered. Here are some of my favourite recipes from the book that I reckon everyone should try:

1. Damper – You can’t talk about camp oven cooking without mentioning damper. Jack’s recipe is as classic as they come—simple ingredients, minimal fuss and maximum satisfaction.
2. Roast Lamb – There’s nothing quite like a roast lamb cooked to perfection in a camp oven. Jack’s method ensures the meat is tender and full of flavour, with crispy skin to boot.
3. Beef Stew – A hearty beef stew is exactly what you need on a chilly outback night. Jack’s recipe uses simple, easy-to-pack ingredients that come together in a rich, tasty stew.
4. Curried Sausages – This is the kind of meal that brings a bit of warmth and spice to a cool night. Jack’s recipe is quick, easy and absolutely delicious.
5. Apple Crumble – If you’ve got a bit of a sweet tooth like me, Jack’s apple crumble is a must-try. The smell alone will have everyone around the campfire drooling.

What Makes Jack A Camp Oven Legend

Over the past 20 years I’ve tried my hand at plenty of camp oven recipes but Jack’s are the ones I keep coming back to. His book is like an old mate that never lets you down. Reliable, straightforward and always there when you need it. The way he simplifies things while still making meals that taste like a bit of home. This what makes him a legend.

It’s not just about the food, though. Jack represents a way of life that resonates with anyone who’s spent time in the Aussie bush. It’s about enjoying the simple things. Being resourceful and making the most out of what you’ve got. And to me that’s what camp oven cooking is all about. Making something that’s good to eat with what you have with you.

Jack’s Legacy In Camp Oven Cooking

Even though Jack is no longer with us his legacy lives on in the kitchens (or campsites) of anyone who loves a good feed. His influence can be seen in the many camp oven cookbooks that have come after his. For me nothing quite compares to the original. Jack set the standard and to this day he remains the gold standard of bush cooking.

Conclusion

Outback Cooking in the Camp Oven by Jack Absalom is more than just a cookbook. It’s a real piece of Australian history, a slice of bush wisdom and a constant source of inspiration. Whether you’re a seasoned bush cook or a newbie to it Jack’s book is a must have. His no nonsense approach to camp oven cooking makes it easy to create delicious meals even if you’re miles away from a proper kitchen. If you’re like me and want to embrace the simplicity and charm of bush cooking do yourself a favour and grab a copy of this classic. Jack Absalom is the true hero of camp oven cooking. With his guidance you’ll be cooking up a legendary feed in the outback in no time.

So, here’s to Jack. The man, the myth, the legend. And to many more camp oven adventures ahead!

My Copy Of The Book Outback Cooking In The Camp Oven

FAQs Frequently Asked Questions About Camp Oven Cooking By Jack Absalom’s Book