Foil packet technique over fire

These steps assume

• Equipment stands securely on a non-combustible surface.
• Wind and fuel can change conditions during the process.
• The focus is “Foil packet technique over fire,” not a particular dish.

What you need

• Heavy-duty aluminum foil
• Tongs and heatproof gloves
• Even embers
• A little oil or liquid
• Plate for the hot packet

Step by step

1. 1

   Arrange evenly cut pieces in one layer, add a little fat or liquid, and leave airspace above.

   • Equipment: Heavy-duty aluminum foil, Tongs and heatproof gloves.
   • Heat: No heat.
   • Time: 3–5 minutes.
   • Looks like: The packet is flat enough for even heat and not stretched tight.
   • If it goes wrong: An overfilled packet opens at the seam and heats unevenly.
   • Done when: Complete: The packet is flat enough for even heat and not stretched tight.

2. 2

   Double-fold every seam. Place on a grate over mild embers or beside the hot zone.

   • Equipment: Heavy-duty aluminum foil, Tongs and heatproof gloves.
   • Heat: Even embers with no flames.
   • Time: 3–5 minutes.
   • Looks like: The packet puffs slightly and no liquid drips onto embers.
   • If it goes wrong: Direct flame weakens foil and soots or burns the contents.
   • Done when: Complete: The packet puffs slightly and no liquid drips onto embers.

3. 3

   Turn carefully with tongs. Move to a plate, rest briefly, and open one corner away from you.

   • Equipment: Heavy-duty aluminum foil, Tongs and heatproof gloves.
   • Heat: Even embers with no flames.
   • Time: Check every 2–3 minutes.
   • Looks like: Steam escapes in a controlled direction; contents are tender and evenly hot.
   • If it goes wrong: Tearing fully open at once directs steam at hands or face.
   • Done when: Complete: Steam escapes in a controlled direction; contents are tender and evenly hot.

If it doesn't turn out as expected

• An overfilled packet opens at the seam and heats unevenly.
• Direct flame weakens foil and soots or burns the contents.
• Tearing fully open at once directs steam at hands or face.

Food safety

Steam from a sealed packet can scald. Open one corner away from face and hands; check meat for a safe internal temperature.