Improving The Flavour Of Freeze Dried Cuisine.

Improving The Flavour Of Freeze Dried Cuisine. Though rapidly improving in quality and nutritional value, dehydrated & Freeze dried meals are not synonymous with amazing taste and texture.

28.06.2018

     Written By Amber Walker, Holistic Nutritionist

Improving The Flavour Of Freeze Dried Cuisine

Though rapidly improving in quality and nutritional value, dehydrated & Freeze dried meals are not synonymous with amazing taste and texture.

 

The purpose of these convenient light weight meals is obviously not to provide a gourmet camp side feast, however if we can jazz them up, even just a little with a few small, light weight editions then why would we not?

After playing around with a few of the ranges from Campers Pantry and Back Country  I have put together a list of additions that will not only enhance the taste and texture of your meals but will also pleasantly enhance the flavour.

 

As freeze dried meals are already quite high in sodium I found it quite easy to skip the salt, however the following dried spices were useful across a variety of the dishes:

• Pepper
• Nutmeg
• Chilli flakes
• Dried Garlic
• Mint Flakes

Nuts & Seeds can be great for adding in some quality fats and a little crunch to enhance the texture:

• Pine Nuts
• Macadamia Nuts
• Cashews
• Chopped Almonds
• Peanuts
• Pepitas
• Sunflower seeds
• Flaxseeds
• Chia seeds (good for thickening watery sauces)
• Dried fruit can also be used to add some variety and nutrients, I find these more practical with curries:
• Raisins
• Currants
• Dried Mango & Freeze dried fruits (available in the muesli bar section of the supermarket.)

Another fantastic section of the supermarket to explore for items is the Asian section. Think dried vegetables such as mushrooms and shallots, fantastic for adding a crunch to any meal and don’t forget dried coconut milk powder, again a good edition for curries or adding it to anything with Asian flavour.

 

To enhance the flavour of the Mediterranean dishes and vegetables I found dried Parmesan was especially useful.

 

Carrying a few of these ingredients in small zip lock bags don’t take up much space or add much extra weight, but they will pack a punch by improving the taste and texture of your next dehydrated meal.