THE GRUB:
I was recently sent some new products to test for Backpacker's Pantry; Chicken Vindaloo and Organic Peanut Butter & Raisin Oatmeal.
If you've been backpacking or camping lately, there's a good chance you've sampled some products from Backpacker's Pantry. The family owned and operated company has been producing lightweight nutritious meals in one form or another since 1951. The meals from Backpacker's Pantry are freeze dried or dehydrated to reduce weight and prolong shelf life. They are designed to be flavorful while simultaneously meeting the nutritional needs of backpackers.
THE TEST:
Since nearly all food tastes delicious after 10 hours of hiking, I decided to try out these meals at home. First was the Chicken Vindaloo for two ($8.90) that would serve as dinner for my wife and me. To my surprise, the Vindaloo was spicy! Not "Ouch, my face hurts" spicy, but "That's a nice kick" spicy. It was a good consistency, with white meat chicken chunks and a savory blend of Indian flavors.
For breakfast, I had the single serving Organic Peanut Butter & Raisin Oatmeal ($3.90). This was very good, and very satisfying. The oatmeal features Justin's Organic Nut Butter, which pretty much made the meal for me. I didn't even mind the raisins, which I normally avoid.
As with any freeze dried meal, it is important to use the precise amount of boiling water indicated by the directions. Also, make sure to let the meal sit the required length of time. Failure to adhere to these directions will make the meal too dry or too watery, no matter how good it tastes.
THE BOTTOM LINE:
If you're one of those people that tried freeze dried or dehydrated food 15 years ago and swore that would be the last time, you might want to reconsider. The folks at Backpacker's Pantry are proving that high quality organic ingredients can go a long way towards making a meal in the woods a gourmet experience. Their Chicken Vindaloo and Organic Peanut Butter & Raisin Oatmeal are just the latest examples. Both products will be available at www.bacpackerspantry.com on January 1, 2011.
For more of Adam's writing, reviews, and photography, visit AdamSawyer.com
Comments
The dehydrated food is getting better.
I actually really like backpacking food. Maybe it's because I'm always so starving after hiking and the meals are always extra salty.
These sound pretty interesting. I've never tried this stuff but good to know for a long trip. Where do you get boiling water if you are backpacking though ? The nut butter would make it for me too!
Great question Natalie. You usually bring a small stove designed specifically for backpacking. Hot meals sure do taste great at the end of the day!
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