Vegetarian Backpacking Dinner Recipes to Fuel your Hike

Vegetarian Backpacking Dinner Recipes to Fuel Your Hike

When it comes to backpacking, meal planning is just as important as packing your gear. After all, you need to fuel your body to climb steep mountains, hike long trails, and explore new places. If you are a vegetarian, it can be challenging to find backpacking dinner recipes that are both delicious and nutritious. Here are some ideas that will keep you fueled and satisfied during your next adventure.

1. Lentil Curry

Curry is a popular dish that can be easily adapted to a vegetarian diet. Lentils are a great source of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making them a perfect ingredient for a backpacking meal. To make lentil curry, you will need:

– 1 cup of dry lentils
– 1 can of coconut milk
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tablespoon of curry powder
– 1 teaspoon of cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste

Start by cooking the lentils according to the package instructions and set them aside. In a separate pot, sauté the onion and bell pepper until tender. Add the cooked lentils, coconut milk, curry powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 10 minutes until the flavors are well combined. Serve it over rice or quinoa for a hearty and filling dinner.

2. Cheese and Mushroom Quesadillas

Quesadillas are easy to make and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. For a vegetarian version, you can use cheese and mushrooms. Mushrooms are a great source of protein, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a perfect addition to a backpacking meal. To make cheese and mushroom quesadillas, you will need:

– Tortillas
– Shredded cheese
– Sliced mushrooms
– Salsa (optional)
– Avocado (optional)

Start by heating a tortilla on a frying pan. Add the cheese and sliced mushrooms on one half of the tortilla. Fold the other half over and press gently with a spatula. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy. Serve with salsa and avocado for extra flavor and nutrition.

3. Chickpea Stew

Stews are a great way to pack in vegetables, protein, and flavor into one pot. Chickpeas are a great source of protein, fiber, and vitamins, making them a perfect ingredient for a backpacking meal. To make chickpea stew, you will need:

– 1 can of chickpeas
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can of diced tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon of paprika
– 1 teaspoon of cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste

Start by sautéing the onion and garlic until tender. Add the diced tomatoes, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let it simmer for 5 minutes. Add the chickpeas and let it cook for an additional 10 minutes until the flavors are well combined. Serve it with bread or crackers for a warm and comforting dinner.

4. Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich

Sometimes, the simplest meals can be the most satisfying. Peanut butter and jelly sandwich is a classic that requires no cooking and can be easily packed in your backpack. Peanut butter is a great source of protein and healthy fats, and jelly adds some sweetness and flavor. To make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, you will need:

– Bread
– Peanut butter
– Jelly

Spread the peanut butter on one side of the bread and jelly on the other. Put the slices together and enjoy!

Conclusion

Vegetarian backpacking dinner recipes can be both delicious and nutritious. Lentil curry, cheese and mushroom quesadillas, chickpea stew, and peanut butter and jelly sandwich are some ideas that will keep you fueled and satisfied during your next backpacking trip. Make sure to pack in some fruits and vegetables for snacks and hydration, and always follow the leave-no-trace principles to protect the environment. Happy hiking!