Ah, the crisp autumn air, the sound of leaves crunching underfoot, the brilliant palette of reds, oranges, and yellows painting the trees – there's nothing quite like backpacking in the fall. But as temperatures begin to drop and nights grow cooler, it’s essential to keep yourself well-nourished and warm. The right meal can make all the difference in replenishing your energy and keeping you toasty after a long day of hiking. Here are some easy and warm backpacking meals perfect for your fall adventures:
- Spiced Quinoa and Lentil Stew
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa
- 1 cup lentils
- Dried vegetables (carrots, onions, bell peppers)
- 1 vegetable bouillon cube
- Seasoning: turmeric, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper
- Optional: dried fruits (apricots or raisins)
Directions:
Boil water and add the quinoa, lentils, dried vegetables, and bouillon. Cook until the quinoa and lentils are soft. Add the seasonings to taste and the optional dried fruits for a hint of sweetness.
- Hearty Pumpkin Soup
Ingredients:
- Instant pumpkin puree
- Dried onions
- Powdered garlic
- Salt and pepper
- Vegetable bouillon cube
- Optional toppings: pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, or powdered ginger
Directions:
Combine the pumpkin puree with water until it reaches your desired consistency. Add the other ingredients, boil until well-mixed and warmed. Sprinkle your preferred toppings before serving.
- Creamy Potato and Leek Soup
Ingredients:
- Instant potato flakes
- Dried leeks or onions
- 1 vegetable bouillon cube
- Salt, pepper, and garlic powder
- Powdered milk or non-dairy alternative
Directions:
Boil water and add all the ingredients, stirring until it reaches a creamy consistency. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
- Fall Veggie Couscous
Ingredients:
- Instant couscous
- Dried veggies (zucchini, carrots, bell peppers)
- 1 vegetable bouillon cube
- Olive oil
- Seasoning: rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper
Directions:
Boil water, add couscous and let it sit covered for about 5 minutes. In another pot, rehydrate the dried vegetables with boiling water. Mix vegetables with couscous, add olive oil, bouillon, and seasonings.
- Chai-Spiced Oatmeal
Ingredients:
- Instant oats
- Chai tea bag
- Powdered milk or a non-dairy alternative
- Maple syrup or brown sugar
- Optional toppings: dried fruits, nuts, or seeds
Directions:
Boil water and steep the chai tea. Add the instant oats and powdered milk, stirring well. Sweeten with maple syrup or brown sugar and finish off with your favorite toppings.
Pack Smart, Pack Light
Always remember that the goal is to pack lightweight and energy-dense foods. Dried and instant foods are staples for backpackers, but that doesn't mean compromising on taste. With the right spices and combinations, you can have flavorful meals that are also nourishing. Consider also packing a small bottle of olive oil or another favorite condiment; a little can go a long way in elevating the taste of your meals.
Embrace the beauty of fall with not only scenic views but also delicious and warming backpacking meals. As you soak in the breathtaking fall foliage and rejuvenate in nature, let these meals nourish your body and spirit. Happy trails and bon appétit!
