On a backpacking trip, nourishing meals is essential for sustaining both energy and enthusiasm. While convenience is key, preparing easy and delicious backpacking meals yourself is not only cost-effective, but it also allows you to tailor the flavors to your liking.
Below, we'll break down a selection of easy DIY backpacking meals that you can whip up at home and enjoy on the trail.
1. Instant Oatmeal Jars:
Ingredients:
- Instant oats
- Dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, or apricots)
- Nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
- Brown sugar or honey
Preparation:
- Measure out single servings of instant oats into small jars.
- Add a mix of dried fruits and nuts to each jar.
- Seal the jars and pack them for your trip.
- On the trail, add hot water, stir, and let it sit for a few minutes before enjoying your customizable instant oatmeal.
2. Pasta with Pesto and Parmesan:
Ingredients:
- Instant pasta (like couscous or angel hair)
- Pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Parmesan cheese (grated)
- Olive oil (optional)
Preparation:
- Cook the instant pasta according to the package instructions.
- Drain the pasta and let it cool.
- Mix in pesto sauce and grated Parmesan cheese.
- For extra flavor and calories, add a drizzle of olive oil.
- Pack the pasta in a lightweight container for a quick and tasty trail meal.
3. DIY Trail Mix:
Ingredients:
- Nuts (almonds, cashews, or peanuts)
- Dried fruits (apricots, mango, or pineapple)
- Dark chocolate chunks or chips
- Pretzels or whole-grain cereal
Preparation:
- Combine your choice of nuts, dried fruits, chocolate chunks, and pretzels in a bowl.
- Mix well and portion the trail mix into resealable bags.
- Grab a handful for a quick and energizing snack during your backpacking journey.
4. Dehydrated Veggie and Rice Bowl:
Ingredients:
- Instant rice
- Dehydrated mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, etc.)
- Dehydrated black beans or lentils
- Seasonings (salt, pepper, cumin, or chili powder)
Preparation:
- Cook the instant rice as per the package instructions.
- Combine the dehydrated vegetables and black beans or lentils in a resealable bag.
- On the trail, rehydrate the veggie and bean mix with hot water.
- Mix in the cooked rice and season to taste for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
5. Tortilla Wraps with Peanut Butter and Banana:
Ingredients:
- Whole wheat tortillas
- Peanut butter (or almond butter)
- Banana (sliced)
Preparation:
- Spread a generous layer of peanut butter on a whole wheat tortilla.
- Place banana slices on top of the peanut butter.
- Roll up the tortilla and pack it in a secure container.
- Enjoy this simple, energy-packed wrap on the trail.
6. Instant Ramen Upgrade:
Ingredients:
- Instant ramen noodles
- Dehydrated vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, or mushrooms)
- Cooked and dehydrated chicken or tofu
- Soy sauce or hot sauce (optional)
Preparation:
- Cook the instant ramen noodles as instructed.
- Combine the dehydrated vegetables and cooked/dehydrated protein in a bag.
- On the trail, rehydrate the veggie and protein mix with hot water.
- Add the cooked ramen noodles and season with soy sauce or hot sauce for a heartier meal.
7. No-Bake Energy Bites:
Ingredients:
- Rolled oats
- Nut butter (peanut, almond, or sunflower)
- Honey or maple syrup
- Add-ins (chocolate chips, dried fruits, or chia seeds)
Preparation:
- Mix rolled oats, nut butter, honey or maple syrup, and your choice of add-ins in a bowl.
- Form the mixture into bite-sized balls and place them on a tray.
- Allow the energy bites to set in the refrigerator.
- Pack the bites in a container for a quick and energizing snack on the trail.
Conclusion:
Creating your own backpacking meals not only allows you to tailor flavors to your liking but also ensures that you're fueled with wholesome ingredients during your outdoor excursions. These easy DIY recipes provide a mix of energy, nutrients, and convenience, making them ideal for backpackers seeking simple and delicious options on the trail.
Whether you're enjoying a hearty bowl of pasta or munching on energy bites, these homemade meals will add a flavorful touch to your backpacking adventures.
