When you’re backpacking, eating beans can be a great way to get some much-needed protein, fiber and vitamins into your diet. Not to mention the fact that beans are incredibly affordable, making them a great choice for budget-minded backpackers.
But how do you eat beans while backpacking without sacrificing taste and nutrition? Here are some tips to make sure your meals are both delicious and nutritious!
Choose the Right Type of Beans
When choosing which type of beans to bring on your backpacking trip, make sure you consider their cooking time. While dried beans are often cheaper than canned varieties, they can take a long time to cook, which may not be feasible when camping.
If you’re looking for something quick and easy, canned beans are always a great choice. You can also opt for pre-cooked varieties or rehydrated dry beans.
Find Creative Ways to Cook Beans
Beans can be cooked in many different ways while backpacking. For instance, if you have access to a fire or camp stove, try simmering them in a pot with water and seasonings such as garlic powder or cumin.
If you don’t have access to any cooking equipment, you can even eat them cold from the can! Just be sure to rinse them off before eating.
Incorporate Beans Into Your Meals
Eating beans doesn’t have to mean plain old side dishes. Try incorporating them into your meals in creative ways—such as adding black beans to tacos or mixing chickpeas into salads. You can also use mashed up refried beans as an alternative pizza topping or mix cooked lentils into soups and stews.
Make Ahead & Store Properly
If possible, try prepping your meals ahead of time before heading out on your trip. This will save you both time and energy during your journey. Additionally, it’s important that you store any leftovers properly so they don’t spoil quickly out in the wilderness.
Conclusion:
Eating beans while backpacking doesn’t have to be boring! With the right type of bean and creative cooking methods, you can whip up delicious meals that are both nutritious and satisfying. Just remember to make ahead when possible and store any leftovers properly so they stay fresh until mealtime.