Nothing evokes the primal connection to fire and food like ember cooking. The technique transcends cultures and traditions and is the most ancient way of cooking. The process, sometimes referred to as dirty cooking, simply involves placing food directly on the hot embers of a fire. While it may seem rudimentary, this method brings a distinct smokiness and depth of flavor to dishes that is hard to replicate through other cooking techniques.

The key to successful ember cooking involves selecting the right I ingredients.  Opt for robust meats like steak or lamb, as well as hearty vegetables such as bell peppers, corn, and potatoes. The direct contact with the embers imparts a rustic, earthy essence to the food.

Creating an optimal bed of embers is crucial for successful ember cooking. Allow the flames to subside, leaving behind a bed of glowing red embers. This ensures a consistent and even heat for your culinary creations. Use hardwoods like oak, beech, ash, birch, fruit wood or hickory for a longer-lasting ember bed with a rich smoky flavor.

While the method itself is straightforward, mastering ember cooking requires finesse. Flip the food regularly to achieve an even cook, and embrace the charred edges that add character to the dish. For meats, consider marinating beforehand to enhance flavours and keep them moist during the cooking process.

Ember cooking, while rewarding, requires caution. Use long utensils to handle food on the embers, and be mindful of flare-ups. Keep a water source nearby to manage unexpected flames, and always cook in a well-ventilated area to ensure a safe and enjoyable ember cooking experience.

So get down and dirty and find out for yourself the irresistible smokiness it imparts to dishes and experience the aromatic allure of food kissed by open flames and how it elevates the dining experience, creating a connection to our primal instincts and the ancient roots of cooking.