Easy Recipes for DIY Dehydrated Backpacking Meals

Easy Recipes for DIY Dehydrated Backpacking Meals

Are you tired of cumbersome canned foods and heavy pack loads on your backpacking trips? Look no further than dehydrated meals to lighten your load and add some variety to your menu.

Dehydrating your own meals might seem intimidating, but with the right recipes and preparation, it can be a fun and cost-effective way to cook on the trail. Here are some easy recipes for DIY dehydrated backpacking meals.

Breakfast: Blueberry Oatmeal

Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup dried blueberries
– 1/4 cup powdered milk
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions:
1. Cook the rolled oats according to the package instructions and let them cool.
2. Mix in the dried blueberries, powdered milk, brown sugar, and salt.
3. Spread the mixture onto a dehydrator sheet and dry on low heat for 8-10 hours, or until fully dehydrated.
4. Pack the dehydrated mixture and add hot water on the trail for a warm and filling breakfast.

Lunch: Veggie and Hummus Wraps

Ingredients:
– 4 whole-grain tortillas
– 2 cups assorted veggies (carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, etc.), sliced thin
– 1/2 cup prepared hummus

Directions:
1. Lay out each tortilla and spread 2 tablespoons of hummus on each.
2. Place the sliced veggies on top of the hummus and roll up tightly.
3. Wrap each tortilla individually in plastic wrap and freeze until solid.
4. Pack the frozen wraps in a freezer bag and they will thaw out by lunchtime on the trail.

Dinner: Chili con Carne

Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef or turkey
– 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 packet chili seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions:
1. Brown the ground meat in a skillet and drain any excess fat.
2. Add the can of kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chili seasoning, and salt to the skillet and stir to combine.
3. Let the mixture simmer for 5-10 minutes until heated through and the flavors are well-combined.
4. Spread the chili onto dehydrator sheets and dry on low heat for 8-10 hours.
5. Pack the dehydrated chili and add hot water on the trail for a hearty and satisfying dinner.

Conclusion

Dehydrating your own meals can be a great way to add variety and save weight on your backpacking trips. With these easy recipes for DIY dehydrated backpacking meals, you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal without having to carry heavy cans or pre-packaged meals. Whether you’re a seasoned backcountry chef or a beginner, give dehydrating a try and see how much it can enhance your outdoor adventures.