Backpacking Fried Rice: Cooked and Ready to Eat

Introduction

Backpacking Fried Rice is a game-changer for outdoor enthusiasts. Unlike many other backpacking meals that require a dehydrator, this recipe uses readily available store-bought ingredients. If you don’t have a dehydrator or need to throw together a meal quickly, this might be a great option for you. This easy-to-prepare meal is both hearty and comforting, perfect for recharging after a long day on the trail.

Ingredients Overview

For this recipe, you’ll need a few key ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store or outdoor retailer. Here’s what you’ll need:

In one bag:

• 1 cup dehydrated vegetables (like Just Veggies)
• 1 vegetable bouillon cube
• ½ teaspoon brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt
• 2 soy sauce packets

In a second bag:

• 1 cup instant rice

In a third bag:

• ¼ cup Ova Easy egg crystals

Essential Equipment

Before heading out on your adventure, make sure you have the following equipment:

• A lightweight backpacking stove
• A cookpot with a lid
• A heat-resistant spatula or spoon
• Resealable bags for storing your ingredients
• A bowl for mixing and serving

Preparing the Ingredients at Home

At home, you can simplify your camp cooking by prepping the ingredients in advance. Combine the veggies with the dried spices in a resealable container and place the cube of vegetable bouillon and two soy sauce packets inside. Store the rice in a separate container. If this is the only meal that includes eggs, you will also need to store the Ova Easy in a separate container, but more often than not, we just bring the whole bag as we are using eggs for other meals too.

Rehydrating the Eggs at Camp

Once you arrive at your campsite, the first step is to rehydrate the eggs. In the bottom of your pot (with the heat off), mix the appropriate amount of egg crystals with water until the mixture is smooth. Then turn the heat on low to scramble. Stir frequently to prevent the eggs from sticking to the bottom. Once the eggs are done, transfer them out of the pot and into a bowl.

Rehydrating the Veggies

Next, it’s time to rehydrate the veggies. Pour the veggies and spices into the pot, add the vegetable bouillon cube, soy sauce packets, and water. Let everything simmer for a few minutes—until the veggies are rehydrated and the bouillon cube is fully dissolved. This process usually takes about 5 minutes.

Cooking the Instant Rice

After the veggies are rehydrated, pour in the instant rice, turn off the heat, and cover the pot. The rice is typically ready in about 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the rice to absorb the flavors from the veggies and bouillon.

Mixing Everything Together

Once the rice is ready, stir everything up. Add the scrambled eggs back into the pot and mix well. Make sure all ingredients are evenly distributed and the dish is well-heated before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Backpacking Fried Rice is a versatile meal. You can customize it by adding your favorite dried spices or additional dehydrated vegetables. For extra protein, consider packing some freeze-dried chicken or tofu to mix in. Pair your meal with a hot beverage or soup to complete your camp dining experience.

Conclusion

Backpacking Fried Rice is a fantastic option for those looking for a delicious and easy-to-make meal while on the trail. By using store-bought ingredients, you can prepare this meal without the need for a dehydrator, making it accessible for everyone. Enjoy your hearty, comforting fried rice and make your next backpacking trip even more memorable with this delightful recipe.

Thank you for reading! For more backpacking meal ideas, check out our recommended reading list. Happy trails!