10 Mouth-Watering Recipes for the Best Backpacking Meals

10 Mouth-Watering Recipes for the Best Backpacking Meals

Do you have a passion for exploring the outdoors? Then you know how vital it is to stay nourished and well-fed during your trips. That’s where backpacking meals come in handy. These meals are designed to be lightweight, portable, and easy to prepare, making them the perfect option for backpackers. In this article, we’ll explore 10 mouth-watering recipes that are sure to satisfy during your next backpacking adventure.

1. Quinoa Salad

Quinoa salad is an excellent option for backpackers who want a healthy and filling meal. It’s packed with minerals, vitamins, and fiber, and it’s easy to prepare. Here’s what you’ll need:

– 1 cup quinoa
– 1 can of corn
– 1 can of black beans
– 1 red onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste

Cook the quinoa according to the instructions on the package. Then, mix all the ingredients in a bowl and add lime juice, salt, and pepper to taste. It’s that simple!

2. Spicy Peanut Noodles

Who doesn’t love some spicy peanut noodles? This meal is packed with flavor and protein, making it an excellent option for backpackers who need some extra energy. Here’s what you’ll need:

– 1 package of noodles (your choice)
– 1/4 cup peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1/4 cup green onions, sliced

Cook the noodles according to the instructions on the package. Mix all ingredients in a bowl except for the green onions. Once the noodles are cooked, mix in the sauce and top with green onions.

3. Chana Masala

If you’re a fan of Indian cuisine, you’ll love this backpacking-friendly chana masala dish. It’s a flavorful and satisfying option that’s easy to make. Here are the ingredients you’ll need:

– 1 can of chickpeas
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 tomato, diced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon coriander
– 1 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste

Heat up some oil in a pot or pan and sauté the onions, ginger, and garlic until fragrant. Add in the tomato, spices, and chickpeas. Cook for 10-15 minutes or until the chickpeas are well coated in the spices.

4. Black Bean Soup

Black bean soup is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for backpacking trips. It’s easy to make in bulk and can be reheated over a campfire. Here’s what you’ll need:

– 2 cans of black beans
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Heat up the olive oil in a pot or pan and add in the onion, pepper, and garlic. Sauté until fragrant. Mix in the spices and black beans. Add water to the pot until the beans are fully submerged. Cook for 10-15 minutes or until the beans are tender.

5. Instant Noodles

If you’re in a time crunch, instant noodles are your best bet. They’re quick, easy, and filling – making them perfect for backpacking trips. Here’s what you’ll need:

– 1 package of instant noodles
– 1/4 cup freeze-dried veggies
– 1/4 cup freeze-dried tofu
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Cook the noodles according to the instructions on the package. Mix in the freeze-dried veggies, tofu, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper.

6. Veggie Burrito Bowl

Who says you can’t have a burrito bowl while backpacking? This dish is easy to make and can be customized to your liking. Here’s what you’ll need:

– 1 cup rice
– 1 can of black beans
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 avocado, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste

Cook the rice according to the instructions on the package. Mix in the black beans and diced pepper. Top with avocado, lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper.

7. Trail Mix

Trail mix is the perfect snack for any backpacking adventure. It’s lightweight, portable, and packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Here’s what you’ll need:

– 1 cup almonds
– 1 cup cashews
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips

Mix all of the ingredients together and store in an airtight container. You can mix and match any nuts or dried fruits to your liking.

8. Pasta Salad

Pasta salad is an easy and refreshing option for backpackers who want a cold meal. It’s easy to make and can be customized to your liking. Here are the ingredients you’ll need:

– 1 package of pasta (your choice)
– 1 can of olives
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 yellow onion, diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste

Cook the pasta according to the instructions on the package. Mix in the olives, pepper, and onion. Whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper to make the dressing. Mix the dressing with the pasta mixture.

9. Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies

Who doesn’t love a sweet treat while backpacking? These peanut butter oatmeal cookies are easy to make and can be stored for a few days. Here’s what you’ll need:

– 1 cup oatmeal
– 1 cup flour
– 1/2 cup peanut butter
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup water

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined. Roll the dough into small balls and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.

10. Beef Jerky

Beef jerky is a classic snack that’s perfect for backpacking trips. It’s lightweight, portable, and packed with protein. Here’s what you’ll need:

– 2 pounds of beef (sirloin or flank)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder

Preheat your oven to 175°F. Cut the beef into thin strips. Mix all of the ingredients together in a bowl. Add the beef and mix until fully coated. Place the beef strips on a baking sheet and bake for 6-8 hours or until fully dehydrated.

In conclusion, these 10 backpacking-friendly recipes are sure to satisfy your hunger during your next adventure. They’re easy to make, portable, and packed with nutrition. Remember to pack additional snacks and water to ensure you’re well-fed and hydrated during your trip. Happy exploring!