Camping Food Conundrum Conquered
As a self-proclaimed recipe developer married to a serious backpacker, I’ve made it my mission to conquer the campsite cuisine conundrum. You see, my husband King-Man is quite the avid hiker, trekking off on backpacking trips several times a year to some of the world’s most breathtaking locales – from the Grand Canyon to the Everest Base Camp. And while he used to rely on pre-packaged trail meals, he’s grown increasingly unsatisfied with their lackluster flavors and lack of nutritional value.
That’s where I come in. Determined to provide him with delicious, nourishing homemade meals for the trail, I’ve spent countless hours in the kitchen, experimenting with lightweight, easy-to-prepare recipes that are perfect for backpacking. And let me tell you, the results have been nothing short of tasty triumph.
Breakfast of Backpacking Champions
Let’s start with the most important meal of the day – breakfast. After all, you’ll need a hearty helping of energy to power through those grueling hikes. One of our go-to favorites? Homemade instant oatmeal packets. I’ve developed a simple method for creating these nutritious morning morsels, allowing you to customize the flavors to your liking. King-Man is particularly fond of the blueberry variety, which he quickly rehydrates with hot water each morning before hitting the trail.
But oatmeal isn’t the only breakfast option worth packing. For a heartier start to the day, try our Instant Egg Scramble. Featuring dehydrated hash browns, OvaEasy egg crystals, and a handful of bacon bits, this savory meal comes together in a snap. And if you’re feeling really ambitious, you can even wrap it up in a tortilla for a delectable breakfast burrito.
Lunchtime Liftoff
Ah, lunchtime on the trail – the brief respite from the day’s physical exertion, a chance to refuel and recharge. And what better way to do so than with a satisfying spread of portable provisions? One of our go-to lunch ideas is the classic pairing of salami and crackers, complemented by a wedge of creamy Laughing Cow cheese and a handful of trail mix for a protein-packed punch.
But let’s not forget about everyone’s favorite energy-boosting snack – the humble granola bar. While the store-bought versions are certainly convenient, I’ve found that homemade granola bars, like our decadent Chocolate Granola, are far more satisfying. Plus, you can tailor the ingredients to your liking, ensuring a perfectly balanced boost of carbs, healthy fats, and delicious flavor.
Dinnertime Delights
After a long day on the trail, there’s nothing quite like a hearty, one-pot meal to refuel the body and soothe the soul. And let me tell you, our Chicken Pad Thai has become an absolute staple in King-Man’s backpacking repertoire. With its zippy flavors, subtle heat, and satisfying noodles, this dish is the perfect way to end the day.
But if you’re in the mood for something a little more comfort-food inspired, our Backpacking Chicken Marbella is sure to hit the spot. Combining the sweetness of dried prunes with the savory punch of olives and oregano, this couscous-based meal is both hearty and highly portable.
Snacking and Sweets
Of course, no backpacking menu would be complete without a selection of delightful snacks and sweet treats to keep your energy levels soaring. In addition to our beloved homemade granola bars, we always make sure to pack a few other portable picks, like DIY “Kind” bars, peanut butter packets, and mini bags of trail mix.
And let’s not forget about dessert! Because even the most dedicated hikers need a little something to satisfy their sweet tooth. That’s why I’ve started including a special birthday surprise for King-Man – a batch of my Whole Grain Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars. Wrapped individually and packed away, these chewy, gooey delights provide the perfect post-dinner treat, eliciting rave reviews from his entire hiking crew.
Organized for the Trail
Now, I know what you’re thinking – with all these homemade goodies, the packing process must be a nightmare. But fear not, my friends! I’ve developed a foolproof organizational system that makes mealtime a breeze, even on the longest of expeditions.
Each day’s worth of food is divided into separate breakfast, lunch/snack, and dinner bags, with the contents clearly labeled. This way, King-Man can simply grab the appropriate bag and enjoy his meal without having to rummage through his pack. And when it comes to storage, we rely on a trusty bear barrel to keep our culinary creations safe from any furry, four-legged interlopers.
So, whether you’re planning a weekend getaway to the breathtaking Scottish Highlands or a weeklong trek through the Rockies, these easy, lightweight backpacking meals are sure to fuel your adventures with both nourishment and delight. Happy trails, my friends!
