Taking Rafter Eleven Ingredients to the Rafter Eleven Ranch
by Brooke Wasowicz
Summer is in full swing. The days are longer and the sun brighter; all the more reason to spend time outside and breathe in the fresh air. A favorite summer pastime of Yours Truly and the owner of Rafter Eleven herself, is camping out on the Rafter Eleven Ranch, with horses, quads, and kids in tow. As a family we would make our way across the open ranch land until we saw our campsite marker: the crooked double trees sitting in the middle of the peaceful openness.
These trips were filled with long walks and horseback riding, but the very best part was gathering around the campfire and enjoying a hearty meal in brisk air. Just because we were camping didn’t mean we sacrificed food or flavor. With just a few Rafter Eleven staples we turned each meal into a gourmet experience. Here’s a favorite campsite meal of ours:
Classic Grilled Hamburger. While the fire is being made, marinate your hamburger meat in Wild Rosemary Olive Oil and Dark Espresso Balsamic Vinegar. Grill the meat to your liking (medium rare in our family) while you toast a brioche bun. Once golden brown, slather the bun with our Barbeque Aioli and begin to layer on your perfectly marinated meat with all the classic toppings: tomato, onion, and lettuce. A perfect campsite burger has been made.
Charred Corn on the Cob. Roast your corn on the grill, or in the fire pit itself for a more smokey flavor. Once the corn is tender, finish it off with a drizzle of Persian Lime Olive Oil, a splash of Sicilian Lemon Balsamic Vinegar and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and salt to tie all the flavors together.
Camping Cooler. There are few things more refreshing than a hot fire, a good meal and a cool drink to wash it all down with. Instead of bringing pre-made lemonade or any other unhealthy sugary drinks, use the Sicilian Lemon Balsamic Vinegar to elevate your water and provide a low-calorie, low-sugar burst of flavor. Just add a teaspoon or two, to taste, and you’ve created a gourmet drink out on the range.
Cooking delicious gourmet food doesn’t have to be hard and it doesn’t have to be expensive. With just a few key ingredients from Rafter Eleven, like a nice aioli or olive oil and balsamic you can take your average meal and turn it into a culinary experience that you and the whole family will love! Mention this article and get 20% off an aioli of your choice!
Rafter Eleven is at 2985 N. Centre Court, in Prescott Valley. For more information call 928.227.2050 or visit www.raftereleven.com.