I just got back from a camping trip in Yosemite. We hauled some coolers full of fresh food and drinks to our campsite, but we also brought several versions of GORP (Good Old Raisins and Peanuts - a classic hiking snack). In other words, plenty of dried foods.
Dehydrated foods take up very little space and weigh almost nothing, which makes them ideal food to stash in a backpack. Of course, dried fruits like raisins or apples can be eaten as is, but fruit roll-ups are a nice variation and just as portable.
Dried veggies such as celery and zucchini make great campfire soup or stew additions. And tomatoes, whether dried in the oven or in a dehydrator, are delicious with pasta - just add a little grated cheese, oil, and garlic and call it a meal.
More than any other dried food, mushrooms reconstitute into something that is almost identical in taste and texture to the fresh version. Get some water boiling over the campfire or camping stove. Pour a little over your dried mushrooms. Use both the mushrooms and the soaking liquid to add rich flavor to simple one pot meals.
I hope your vacation plans include some excellent camping adventures...and that your meals on the trail are delicious!
Photo: ŠLeda Meredith
Comments