for Backpacking and Camping

If you’re like me, you love hitting the trails and spending nights under the stars. Maybe a day hike is the plan too. But cooking a hot meal after a long day of hiking can sometimes feel like a chore. Especially if you live in an area like I do where the daily temperatures are hot and humid. Enter cold soak cooking – the game changer for campers and backpackers.

Cold soaking is exactly what it sounds like – preparing your meals without the need for a stove or fire. It’s light, simple, and surprisingly delicious! All you need is a container, some cold water, and a bit of patience. Whether you’re trying to save weight, fuel, or just want to try something new, cold soaking is worth a shot. I use one pint talenti gelato jars which are clear, sturdy, water tight, and BPA free. As a plus you get to enjoy the gelato first!

Why Cold Soak?

1. Lightweight: No need to lug around a stove, fuel, or heavy pots and pans.
2. Simple: Less gear, fewer things to clean, and more time to relax.
3. No Fuel: Perfect for areas with fire bans or when you’re low on fuel.
4. Healthy: You can pack nutrient-dense meals that keep you energized on the go.

Tips for Cold Soaking

• Use a Leak-Proof Container: A sturdy plastic jar or a zip-top bag works wonders.
• Plan Ahead: Some ingredients take longer to rehydrate, so it’s best to soak them a few hours before mealtime.
• Dehydrated Vegetables: Make your own at home or purchase online. I purchased a variety pack of dehydrated vegetables to save time and experiment with different combinations.
• Experiment: Not all foods cold soak equally well. Try different combinations at home before your trip.

Experiment with the recipes at home before taking them on the trail or to camp.

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Five Recipes to Try

1. Overnight Oats

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1 tbsp chia seeds
• 1 tbsp dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or apricots)
• 1 tbsp nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
• 1 cup water or plant-based milk
• A drizzle of honey or maple syrup

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in your container.
2. Add water or milk and stir well.
3. Seal and let it soak overnight or for at least 4 hours.
4. Enjoy a hearty and nutritious breakfast!

2. Mediterranean Couscous Salad

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup couscous
• 2 tbsp dehydrated vegetables (tomatoes, bell peppers, onions)
• 1 tbsp olives (sliced)
• 1 tbsp feta cheese (optional)
• 1 tsp dried herbs (basil, oregano, or parsley)
• A drizzle of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. Combine couscous and dehydrated vegetables in your container.
2. Add water, seal, and let it soak for about 30 minutes.
3. Once hydrated, add olives, feta cheese, herbs, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Mix well and enjoy a refreshing salad!

3. Spicy Peanut Noodles

Ingredients:

• 1 pack of ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packet)
• 2 tbsp powdered peanut butter (or small peanut butter packet)
• 1 tsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp dehydrated vegetables (carrots, peas, or bell peppers)
• 1/2 cup water

Instructions:

1. Break the ramen noodles into your container and add the dehydrated vegetables.
2. In a separate small container, mix powdered peanut butter, soy sauce, and hot sauce with a bit of water to create a sauce.
3. Add water to the noodles, seal, and let it soak for about 30 minutes.
4. Once the noodles are soft, stir in the peanut sauce.
5. Enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal!

4. Quinoa & Black Bean Salad

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup cooked and dehydrated quinoa (instant quinoa)
• 1/4 cup dehydrated black beans
• 1 tbsp dried corn
• 1 tbsp diced dehydrated tomatoes
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• A squeeze of lime
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. Combine quinoa, black beans, corn, and tomatoes in your container.
2. Add water, seal, and let it soak for about 1-2 hours.
3. Once rehydrated, add cumin, chili powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Mix well and enjoy a protein-packed salad!

5. Ramen Salad with Sesame Dressing

Ingredients:

• 1 pack of ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packet)
• 2 tbsp dehydrated vegetables (broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers)
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 cup water

Instructions:

1. Break the ramen noodles into your container and add the dehydrated vegetables.
2. Add water, seal, and let it soak for about 30 minutes.
3. In a separate small container, mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and honey or maple syrup to create the dressing.
4. Once the noodles and vegetables are soft, stir in the sesame dressing and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
5. Enjoy a light and refreshing meal!

Give Cold Soaking a Try

Cold soaking might seem a bit unconventional at first, but it’s a fantastic way to simplify your backpacking and camping meals. Give these recipes a try and tweak them to suit your taste. You’ll be surprised at how delicious and easy cold soak cooking can be.

Happy trails and bon appétit! 🌄