A hearty breakfast is essential for those camping out or hiking, but learning to make quick and tasty meals using a lightweight canister stove can seem intimidating at first. Don’t worry! There are plenty of filling and nutritious options that won’t add a lot of weight to a hiker’s pack. Here are three awesome breakfast selections for those new to camp cooking.
Instant Oatmeal or Grits
Packets of instant oatmeal or grits can be whipped up in no time and will provide the sugar, carbohydrates, and fiber necessary to withstand the rigorous demands of outdoor activities and living. For those unconcerned with pack weight, strained canned fruit can add even more essential vitamins and minerals into this simple meal, but dried fruit and nuts also make welcome and healthy additions to oatmeal. If you’re planning for heavy exertion throughout the day, adding powdered milk can step up the calorie content considerably.
Powdered Eggs with Add-Ins
Powdered eggs can be dressed up with powdered milk to make a light and fluffy texture for a huge nutritional punch. Both items weigh very little, so pack weight is hardly a concern. If desired, adding bacon bits or pieces of jerky will help add additional protein and flavor. Tiny spice packets of salt, pepper, or oregano can also add simple seasoning to this easy breakfast, as can dehydrated vegetables like sundried tomatoes.
Fried Vienna Sausages with Warm Tortillas
Vienna sausages come in small cans that are not too heavy. Campers and hikers alike will appreciate the ease of simply heating them, then wrapping them in warmed tortillas. This meal provides a healthy dose of salt and fat, which are both essential for strenuous activities. If more carbohydrates are desired, swap out corn tortillas for flour.
Using a lightweight canister stove to whip up hearty and easy breakfasts while on the trail or at camp is an acquired skill. It’s a great idea to practice using your stove at home before an excursion so you have a feel for how it will work in the wild.
