cover image Over the Open Fire

Over the Open Fire

Pamela Alford, with Johnny Nix. . EMG Productions, $39.95 (259pp) ISBN 978-0-9770556-1-6

Campfire Cafe host Nix offers gourmet-style country hospitality in this guide to updated cowboy cooking. Those familiar with Nix's RFD-TV series, in which he guides country music stars as they cook over an open fire, will recognize the dishes; Nix and executive producer Alford have made them the centerpiece of their guide to outdoor living, adding safety tips (be prepared for the unexpected), camping etiquette (don't "cut-thru" other campsites) and suggestions for memorable camping trips (bring a horse). Readers will learn about supplies, setting up camp, building a fire, caring for cast-iron cookware and preparing dishes ranging from soups and stews to Thanksgiving turkeys and cakes. Nix goes above and beyond hot dogs, hamburgers and pork and beans with an international roundup (including Cajun Spring Rolls and Tuscan Roasted Chicken), though there's plenty of homespun fare, as well (such as Chicken Pot Pie). Some readers may be put off by plugs for Nix's Cowboy Cookware and spice kits, as well as the machismo ("quiche for real men"). But for avid and armchair campers, horse enthusiasts and those looking for a taste of the great outdoors prepared in their own kitchens, this title will likely prove useful and fun. Photos. (Dec.)