Hiking through the wilderness presents an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature, pushing your physical limits while exploring breathtaking landscapes. However, one common concern among backpackers is food – finding meal options that are not only nutritious but also lightweight, easy to prepare, and satisfying after a long day on the trail. Rice and beans emerge as the hero ingredients here, offering high protein, fiber, and the comfort of a hearty meal in the backcountry. Here are five backpacking rice and bean recipes tailored for your hiking adventures.
1. Mexican Rice and Beans
The allure of Mexican flavors is universal, and what better way to bring that zest to your camp than with this simple yet flavorful dish?
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup of instant rice
- 1⁄2 cup of dehydrated beans
- 1 packet of taco seasoning or spices (chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt)
- Dried salsa mix (optional)
- Preparation:
- At camp, boil water in your pot (1 cup per 1⁄2 cup of rice).
- Add rice, dehydrated beans, and taco seasoning to the boiling water.
- Simmer until the rice and beans are cooked, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Optional: once cooked, stir in dried salsa mix for an extra burst of flavor.
🌮 Note: Be cautious with salt in your spices as excessive sodium can dehydrate you on the trail.
2. Trail Jambalaya
Inspired by the New Orleans classic, this backcountry Jambalaya brings rich flavors to your campfire cookery without the weight of traditional ingredients.
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup of instant rice
- 1⁄4 cup of dehydrated beans
- 1⁄4 cup of dried sausage or pre-cooked, freeze-dried sausage
- 1 tsp of Cajun seasoning mix
- Dried bell peppers, onions, and celery (vegetable mix)
- Preparation:
- Bring water to a boil (about 1 cup per 1⁄2 cup of rice).
- Add rice, beans, sausage, Cajun seasoning, and vegetable mix.
- Simmer until everything is rehydrated and cooked, which should take around 10-15 minutes.
3. Vegetarian Chickpea Curry
For those who prefer a vegetarian option, this curry recipe combines chickpeas with rice, offering a filling meal with an array of spices for flavor.
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup of instant rice
- 1⁄2 cup of dehydrated chickpeas
- 1-2 tbsp of curry powder
- Dried vegetables of your choice (carrots, peas, tomatoes)
- Preparation:
- Boil water (1 cup per 1⁄2 cup of rice).
- Add rice, chickpeas, curry powder, and dried vegetables.
- Stir well and let it simmer until the rice and chickpeas are cooked through.
4. Cowboy Rice and Bean Pot
This recipe evokes the simplicity of cowboy cooking with a hearty, comforting blend of beans, rice, and bacon.
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup of instant rice
- 1⁄2 cup of dehydrated pinto beans
- Dried bacon or bacon bits
- 1 tsp of smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Preparation:
- Heat water in your pot (1 cup per 1⁄2 cup of rice).
- Once boiling, add rice, beans, dried bacon, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Allow it to simmer until cooked, stirring occasionally.
5. Basic Backpacker’s Rice and Beans
For those new to backpacking or when you want simplicity, this basic yet satisfying meal stands out.
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup of instant rice
- 1⁄2 cup of dehydrated black or pinto beans
- Pinch of salt
- Preparation:
- Bring water to a boil (1 cup per 1⁄2 cup of rice).
- Add rice, beans, and salt.
- Cook until the rice is fluffy and beans are rehydrated.
The versatility and nutritional benefits of rice and beans make them an excellent choice for any backpacker's menu. They are cost-effective, readily available, and can be seasoned or mixed with various ingredients to create diverse meals. Moreover, these recipes require minimal preparation and equipment, allowing you to focus more on the trail and less on the meal prep. Whether you're looking for a burst of flavor or a simple comfort food, these recipes ensure you're fueled up for the journey ahead.
How do I choose the right instant rice for backpacking?
+
Opt for instant or quick-cooking rice. These varieties cook faster and require less water, making them ideal for backpacking.
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of dried?
+
You can, but remember fresh vegetables add weight and reduce shelf life, making dried or dehydrated vegetables a better choice for extended trips.
What’s the best way to carry spices?
+
Consider pre-mixed spice packets or small, spill-proof containers. Single-use packets like those for taco seasoning work well.
