When disaster strikes, it’s not just the physical danger that’s a concern – it’s also the threat to our basic needs, including access to nutritious food. In times of crisis, having a stockpile of non-perishable ingredients and knowing how to prepare them can be a lifesaver. Here are 18 essential survival food recipes to help you get started:
These recipes are designed to provide sustenance in the face of adversity, using readily available ingredients and simple cooking techniques. From classic campfire staples like beef jerky and bannock bread, to more unexpected options like acorn flour pancakes and sun-dried tomato flatbread, we’ve got you covered.
Hardtack Biscuits
A Classic Complement to Any Meal: Hardtack Biscuits
Hardtack biscuits have been a staple of military rations and sea-faring diets for centuries, earning the nickname “worm castles” due to their dry, crumbly texture. But don’t let that reputation fool you – these simple, yet satisfying biscuits are perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
3. Gradually add water (approximately 1/2 cup) to the dry ingredients, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and pliable.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares or triangles).
6. Place biscuits on prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pemmican Energy Bars
These no-bake energy bars are made with wholesome ingredients and packed with protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates to keep you energized throughout the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, cherries)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup nut butter (peanut butter, almond butter)
– 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts)
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine oats, dried fruit, and chia seeds.
2. In a separate saucepan, heat honey and nut butter over low heat until smooth and well combined.
3. Pour the honey-nut butter mixture over the oat mixture and stir until everything is fully incorporated.
4. Fold in chopped nuts and shredded coconut.
5. Press the mixture into a lined or greased 8×8-inch baking dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: None (no-bake recipe)
Yield: 12-16 energy bars
Beef Jerky
Savor the rich flavor of tender beef strips, marinated and dried to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (top round or flank steak)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to its lowest temperature setting (usually around 150°F).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the beef strips to the marinade and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mat. Remove beef from marinade and place on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Dry the beef strips in the oven for 3-4 hours, or until they reach desired chewiness.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Canned Bean Stew
This comforting stew is a great way to warm up on a chilly day. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (16 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the canned tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and vegetable broth.
6. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rice and Lentil Survival Mix
When you need a quick and nutritious meal that’s high in protein and fiber, look no further than this simple rice and lentil survival mix. This recipe is perfect for busy days when you don’t have time to cook a big meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
– 1/2 cup cooked red or green lentils
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cooked rice and lentils.
2. Heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and ground cumin to the skillet. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour the onion-garlic mixture over the rice-lentil mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Dehydrated Fruit Leather
Get creative with your favorite fruits and make a healthy snack that’s perfect for on-the-go! This recipe uses dehydrated fruit leather to create a delicious and nutritious treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1 cup sliced apples
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Dehydrator or oven
Instructions:
1. Preheat your dehydrator to 135°F (57°C) or the lowest temperature setting on your oven.
2. Combine the mixed berries and sliced apples in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together honey and lemon juice.
4. Add the honey-lemon mixture to the blended fruit mixture and stir well.
5. Pour the mixture onto dehydrator trays or baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
6. Dehydrate for 6-8 hours or bake in a preheated oven at 150°F (65°C) for 3-4 hours.
7. Once dry and chewy, remove from heat and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (dehydrator) or 3-4 hours (oven)
Bannock Bread
Bannock bread, a staple in many Indigenous communities across Canada, is a simple and delicious flatbread that can be cooked over an open flame or in the oven. This recipe makes a classic bannock with a crispy outside and soft inside.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If cooking over an open flame, prepare a fire or heat source.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
3. Gradually add the warm water, stirring until a dough forms. Add the vegetable oil and continue kneading until smooth.
4. Divide the dough into 2-3 equal portions, depending on desired bannock size.
5. Shape each portion into a ball and flatten slightly into disk shapes.
6. Cook the bannocks over an open flame or in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
7. Serve warm, topped with your favorite spreads or toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Wild Edible Greens Salad
Nourish your body with a burst of fresh flavors from nature’s own salad bar! This Wild Edible Greens Salad recipe showcases the best of foraged greens, combined with tangy and sweet elements.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild edible greens (such as dandelion, chicory, or plantain)
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the wild edible greens with cold water, shaking off excess moisture.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cleaned greens, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil. Toss until the leaves are evenly coated.
3. Top with chopped scallions and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in minutes.
Acorn Flour Pancakes
Start your day with a delicious and nutritious breakfast using acorn flour! These pancakes are perfect for those looking to incorporate more plant-based ingredients into their diet.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup acorn flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil or butter
– Optional: blueberries, maple syrup, or chopped nuts for topping
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together acorn flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted coconut oil or butter.
3. Combine the dry and wet ingredients and stir until smooth.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet or griddle.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per batch
Smoked Fish
A classic recipe that showcases the rich flavors of smoked fish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked fish (such as salmon, trout, or tilapia)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, zucchini)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, sliced onion, minced garlic, and mixed vegetables.
3. Place the smoked fish on a piece of aluminum foil or parchment paper.
4. Spoon the vegetable mixture over the fish, making sure it’s evenly coated.
5. Sprinkle dried thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Close the smoker lid and cook for 30-40 minutes, or until the fish is heated through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Trail Mix with Nuts and Seeds
This classic trail mix recipe combines the perfect blend of nuts and seeds to keep you fueled on-the-go. With a mix of crunch, texture, and flavor, this snack is perfect for hiking, working out, or just satisfying your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans)
– 1 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed nuts, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds.
2. Add the dried cranberries and dark chocolate chips to the nut mixture.
3. Drizzle with honey and stir until everything is well coated.
4. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None! Just mix and enjoy!
Sun-Dried Tomato and Herb Flatbread
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful flatbread, perfect for a quick lunch or as a side to your favorite soups. With the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes and the freshness of herbs, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 3/4 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, olive oil, salt, and sugar.
3. Gradually add warm water, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead for 5-7 minutes, then shape into a ball.
5. Roll out to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
6. Sprinkle rosemary, thyme, and sun-dried tomatoes on half of the dough.
7. Fold other half over herbs and fold edges to seal.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Root Vegetable Mash
Elevate your side dishes with a hearty and comforting Root Vegetable Mash. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of carrots, parsnips, and turnips with the savory flavors of garlic and butter.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large parsnip, peeled and chopped
– 1 medium-sized turnip, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the chopped carrots, parsnip, and turnip on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle with melted butter and sprinkle with minced garlic.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and lightly caramelized.
5. Remove from the oven and mash the roasted vegetables with a fork or potato masher.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Emergency Ration Oatmeal
When disaster strikes, a warm and satisfying meal can be a rare luxury. This recipe for Emergency Ration Oatmeal provides a simple and easy-to-prepare breakfast option that’s perfect for unexpected situations.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup water or emergency ration beverage (e.g., powdered drink mix)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small pot, combine the oats and water or emergency ration beverage.
2. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add salt and honey or sugar (if using). Stir until dissolved.
4. Serve hot in a bowl or directly from the pot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
This recipe makes one serving, but can be easily scaled up to feed larger groups. With its simple preparation and limited ingredients, Emergency Ration Oatmeal is an ideal solution for emergency situations where food and cooking resources are scarce.
Wild Berry Jam
This sweet and tangy jam is perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a filling for cakes and pastries. With its vibrant color and intense flavor, you’ll want to make a batch (or two) of this wild berry jam.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed wild berries (such as blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Rinse the wild berries and remove any stems or debris.
2. In a large saucepan, combine the berries, sugar, water, and lemon juice.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the jam has thickened and passed the “wrinkle test”.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade Granola
This recipe yields a deliciously sweet and crunchy homemade granola perfect for snacking, adding to yogurt or oatmeal, or using as a topping for salads. With just a few simple ingredients and a short baking time, you’ll be enjoying your very own homemade granola in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, nuts, and brown sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, oil, vanilla extract, and salt. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
4. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly toasted and fragrant.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before breaking into chunks.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Salt-Cured Meat
A classic method of preserving meat, salt-curing creates a deliciously savory and tender product that’s perfect for snacking or adding to dishes. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create your own salt-cured meats at home.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound of pork loin, beef brisket, or lamb shoulder
• 1/2 cup kosher salt
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons pink curing salt (optional)
• 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 200°F (90°C).
2. Mix together the kosher salt, brown sugar, and pink curing salt (if using) in a small bowl.
3. Rub the mixture all over the meat, making sure it’s evenly coated.
4. Place the meat on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet or tray, allowing air to circulate around it.
5. Cure the meat for 7-10 days, flipping it every 2-3 days.
6. After the curing period, rinse the meat under cold running water and pat dry with paper towels.
Cooking Time: None needed! Simply slice and serve once cured.
Campfire Ash Cakes
These unique ash cakes are a great way to use up leftover campfire embers and make a delicious, crispy snack. With just a few ingredients, you can create these tasty treats that pair perfectly with a warm cup of coffee or tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Pinch of salt
– Ashes from campfire (about 1-2 tablespoons)
Instructions:
1. Mix flour, water, and salt in a bowl until a dough forms.
2. Add the vegetable oil and mix until combined.
3. Place the dough on a piece of parchment paper or a silicone mat.
4. Use your hands to shape the dough into small patties (about 1 inch thick).
5. Place the patties near the campfire embers, allowing them to cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until crispy and golden brown.
6. Remove the cakes from the heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Summary
When disaster strikes, having the right food can be a matter of survival. This article compiles 18 essential recipes to help you prepare for tough times. From hearty stews and breads to energy-rich bars and snacks, these recipes use common ingredients and simple techniques to create nutritious meals. Whether you’re stockpiling for a long-term emergency or just want to add some self-sufficiency to your outdoor adventures, this collection of survival food recipes is sure to be a valuable resource.
