This week I read a Lincoln, New Mexico press release about the celebration and completion of the seventh annual Billy the kid Trail Ride on May 16, 2009.

This story immediately made me think of the High Desert Trail Riders Back Country Horsemen Association in Klamath County, Oregon. This group is instrumental and The Horse Packing & Wilderness Skills Clinic. It is amazing what they do to help keep trails open.

In addition, they are involved with the History Association of Oregon as they stage reenactments in period clothing at Fort Klamath during the summer months. This was the first frontier military post in the region which was established in 1863. The High Desert Trail Riders gave us a tour of Fort Klamath as well as prepare a trail luncheon for us to enjoy.

This post will feature one of the recipes by the campsite of Lynn Dwyer.

Mexican Corn Casserole
4 eggs
1 14-oz can creamed corn
1 14-oz can whole kernel corn
1 1/2 cups cornmeal
1 1/4 cups buttermilk
1/2 to 1 cup butter, melted
2 4-oz cans chopped green chilies (or to taste)
1 tsp banking soda
2 medium onions, finely chopped
3 cups shredded cheese – divided in half (cheddar or any combination you like)

Directions

Beat eggs in a bowl, add all ingredients except cheese.
Stir together, then add 2 cups cheese and mix.
Pour into prepared large size Dutch oven.
Cook with even coals, about 350 degrees.
Check for be done after 1/2 hour.
Keep checking, cooking time depends on thickness of batter. Check the center to determine when done.

Top with remaining 1 cup cheese.
Let set 15 minutes–if you can wait that long!
If the inside doesn’t quite get done, just start dishing up from the outside and work in, leaving the over over low heat. The rest should finish cooking by the time you are ready for seconds!

For home oven cooking:
Pour batter into 9×13 inch baking pan.
Bake uncovered at 325 degrees for 1 hour.
Top with remaining cheese.
Let set 15 minutes.
Warmed leftovers make a great breakfast.

Let me know how you enjoy this and if it gives you the urge to go trail riding.

Culinarily yours,