When disaster strikes, having a well-stocked pantry full of nutritious and easy-to-prepare meals can be a lifesaver. That’s why we’ve put together this collection of 18 essential survival food recipes that are perfect for emergencies. From DIY pemmican to homemade hardtack biscuits, these recipes will help you stay fueled and focused when the going gets tough.
But what makes these recipes so special? For starters, they’re all incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and equipment. Plus, many of them can be stored for long periods of time without spoiling, making them perfect for emergency supplies. And with a focus on whole foods like oats, nuts, and dried fruits, you’ll know that you’re getting the nutrients your body needs to stay healthy and strong.
In this article, we’ll take you through each recipe, providing step-by-step instructions and tips for customization and storage. Whether you’re preparing for a natural disaster, a power outage, or simply want to have some extra food on hand, these recipes will help you build a survival-friendly pantry that’s ready for anything.
DIY Pemmican for Long-Term Storage
Pemmican is a traditional high-calorie mixture of fat and nutrients that has been used for centuries to sustain explorers, adventurers, and even soldiers. This DIY recipe allows you to create your own pemmican at home, perfect for long-term storage and emergency supplies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rendered beef tallow or vegetable shortening
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup powdered milk
– 1 tablespoon dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, etc.)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the tallow or shortening over low heat.
2. Add the honey and stir until fully incorporated.
3. Remove from heat and add the powdered milk, stirring until smooth.
4. Fold in the dried fruit and vanilla extract.
5. Pour into an airtight container and store at room temperature for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply prepare and store.
Tips:
– Use high-quality ingredients for best results.
– Store pemmican in small, individually wrapped portions for easy portion control.
– Pemmican is a great addition to emergency kits or long-term food storage supplies.
Homemade Hardtack Biscuits
Hardtack biscuits have been a staple in many cultures for centuries, and this recipe yields a deliciously crumbly and tender result. Perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite soups and stews.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable shortening, chilled
– 3/4 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the cold shortening and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually add the warm water, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together in a ball.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
6. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares or circles).
7. Place biscuits on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Emergency Canned Soup Mix
When disaster strikes and a warm meal seems like an impossible dream, fear not! This Emergency Canned Soup Mix recipe is the perfect solution to fuel your body and lift your spirits. With minimal effort and only canned goods, you’ll be enjoying a steaming hot bowl of comfort in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (16 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Open the cans and drain the liquid from the condensed soup.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the soup, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and water.
3. Stir in the vegetable oil until it’s fully incorporated.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Serves: 1-2 people
Simple Dried Fruit Trail Mix
A sweet and satisfying snack that’s perfect for on-the-go or as a healthy treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup mixed dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, cherries)
– 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans)
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the oats and dried fruit.
2. Add the chopped nuts and stir until well combined.
3. Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler.
4. Pour the melted chocolate over the oat mixture and stir until everything is coated.
5. Drizzle with honey and stir to combine.
Cooking Time: None! Just mix and enjoy.
Survival Energy Bars with Oats and Honey
These no-bake energy bars are a perfect snack for your next outdoor adventure. Made with wholesome ingredients, they’ll keep you fueled and satisfied.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup honey
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup chopped dried fruit (cranberries or raisins)
– 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts)
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, honey, and peanut butter. Mix until well combined.
2. Stir in dried fruit, nuts, and chia seeds.
3. Add a pinch of salt to taste.
4. Press the mixture into a lined or greased 8×8-inch baking dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. Cut into bars and store in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: None (no-bake recipe)
Dehydrated Vegetable Soup Mix
Enjoy a warm and comforting bowl of homemade vegetable soup with this easy recipe using dehydrated vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 packet dehydrated vegetable soup mix (contains carrots, potatoes, peas, corn, onions, garlic, and celery)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme) for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the dehydrated vegetable soup mix and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
3. Stir in the olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Instant Rice and Bean Survival Kit
A simple, no-fuss recipe for a quick and filling meal when you’re in need of a survival kit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup instant rice
– 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water or broth to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. Add the instant rice, cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
3. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
4. Add the black beans and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork. Mix in the black beans and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Homemade Jerky for Protein Packed Snacks
Satisfy your cravings with this easy and healthy homemade jerky recipe, packed with protein to keep you energized throughout the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef (such as top round or flank steak), sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Add the sliced beef to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove beef from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the beef strips on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Cook for 3-4 hours, or until jerky reaches desired level of dryness and chewiness.
7. Let cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Quick Survival Crackers with Flour and Water
When disaster strikes or you’re stranded without a pantry full of snacks, having some simple, wholesome crackers can be a lifesaver. This recipe yields a batch of crispy, nutritious treats using just flour and water.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour.
2. Gradually add in the water, stirring with a fork until the mixture forms a shaggy dough.
3. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until it becomes smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces.
5. Roll each piece into a thin sheet, about 1/16 inch thick.
6. Cut the sheets into desired cracker shapes or sizes.
7. Place the crackers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy and lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
DIY Instant Noodle Packets
Get creative with this DIY recipe and make your own instant noodles at home! Say goodbye to preservatives and hello to a flavorful, homemade snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of noodles (any type, e.g., rice noodles, egg noodles, or ramen)
– 1 cup of dried vegetable flakes (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup of dehydrated chicken broth powder
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce powder
– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a separate pan, heat 1-2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
3. Add the dried vegetable flakes and cook until they rehydrate and are lightly toasted.
4. Mix the cooked noodles, dehydrated chicken broth powder, soy sauce powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt in a bowl.
5. Add the rehydrated vegetable flakes to the noodle mixture and stir well.
Cooking Time:
– 2-3 minutes over medium heat, stirring constantly
– Serve hot and enjoy!
Survival Granola with Nuts and Seeds
This hearty granola is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and backpackers, providing a nutritious and sustaining snack to fuel your adventures. With a combination of nuts, seeds, and whole grains, this recipe will keep you going on long hikes or camping trips.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped almonds
– 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, almonds, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds.
3. In a separate bowl, combine honey, brown sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated.
5. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to ensure even cooking.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Peanut Butter Balls for Energy
Looking for a quick pick-me-up that’s both delicious and nutritious? These peanut butter balls are the perfect solution, packed with protein-rich peanut butter and wholesome oats. Make a batch in no time and fuel up for your busy day!
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine peanut butter and honey until smooth.
2. Stir in oats and salt until well combined.
3. Roll tablespoon-sized balls between your hands until firm.
4. If desired, dip each ball into melted chocolate chips for an extra burst of flavor.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None! These energy-boosting bites are ready in no time.
Enjoy your peanut butter power-up!
Long-Lasting Canned Meat Stew
A hearty, comforting stew that’s perfect for a quick and easy meal. This recipe uses canned meat to make it convenient and shelf-stable.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of chunked beef in gravy
– 1 can (10 oz) of condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup of water
– 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the canned beef, cream of mushroom soup, water, tomato paste, and thyme.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Dehydrated Potato Pancakes
Dehydrated Potato Pancakes Recipe
Summary: Rehydrate dehydrated potato pancakes and enjoy a crispy, golden-brown breakfast or snack with a hint of sweet potato flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dehydrated potato pancake mix
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine the dehydrated potato pancake mix and water. Stir until the mixture is smooth and there are no lumps.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Pour approximately 1/4 cup of the potato pancake mixture onto the skillet or griddle.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the edges start to curl and the surface is dry.
5. Flip the pancake and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
6. Repeat with remaining mixture.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes for 4-6 pancakes.
Note: You can also add salt or other seasonings to taste, if desired.
Emergency Oatmeal Packets
In times of crisis, a warm bowl of oatmeal can be a comforting and sustaining treat. These portable packets provide a quick and easy solution to fuel up when you’re on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, or cherries)
– 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine oats, dried fruit, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together honey or maple syrup, brown sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
4. Spoon approximately 1/4 cup of the mixture into a small zip-top plastic bag or an emergency packet container.
5. Repeat for each serving (about 6-8 servings).
Cooking Time: None needed! These packets are ready-to-eat.
Simple Flour Tortillas for Survival
In the face of uncertainty, having a reliable source of food can be crucial to survival. Simple flour tortillas are an excellent addition to any emergency kit, providing a versatile and calorie-rich snack that can be used in a variety of situations.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Gradually add in the vegetable oil while stirring with a fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Slowly pour in 1/4 cup of warm water, continuing to stir until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
5. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal pieces and roll each piece into a ball.
6. Using a rolling pin or your hands, flatten each ball into a thin circle (about 1/8 inch thick).
7. Cook on a preheated griddle or frying pan over medium-high heat for 30-45 seconds per side.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes per tortilla
DIY Instant Soup Powder
Boost your pantry’s shelf life with this simple DIY instant soup powder recipe! With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful and convenient base for your favorite soups.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1 cup dried vegetables (e.g., carrots, celery, potatoes)
– 1/4 cup dehydrated chicken or vegetable broth mix
– 1 tablespoon sea salt
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine the flour and dried vegetables.
2. Stir in the dehydrated broth mix and sea salt until well combined.
3. Sift the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps or large particles.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
To use: Mix 1 tablespoon of this DIY instant soup powder with 8 ounces hot water (or your preferred cooking liquid). Stir and enjoy!
Survival Seed and Nut Butter
This recipe combines the nutritious benefits of sunflower seeds and nuts with a creamy butter that’s perfect for snacking on-the-go or adding to recipes. With its rich flavor and satisfying texture, this Survival Seed and Nut Butter is a great addition to any emergency kit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sunflower seeds
– 1/2 cup mixed nuts (such as almonds, cashews, and pecans)
– 1/4 cup coconut oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread the sunflower seeds on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. In a food processor, combine the toasted sunflower seeds, mixed nuts, coconut oil, and honey.
4. Process until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
5. Transfer the mixture to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-bake recipe!
Summary
In this article, we provide 18 essential survival food recipes that can help you and your loved ones stay nourished during emergencies. From DIY pemmican for long-term storage to homemade jerky for protein-packed snacks, these recipes cover a range of options to keep you fueled. You’ll also find recipes for energy-boosting granola, quick survival crackers, and easy-to-make oatmeal packets. Additionally, we’ve included tips for preserving food and creating emergency meal kits. Whether you’re preparing for a natural disaster or simply want to stockpile some non-perishable snacks, these recipes are sure to help.
