Budget Trail Meals

[@renter6]

Just wanna say this is what KZbin used to be and ought to be. Many thanks, subscribed.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Thank you for subscribing. Your comment is most appreciated.

[@ktrigg2]

renter6 amen brother

[@opmike343]

KZbin is many things to many people. That's the value of it and what it "ought" to be.

[@thatguyonabicycleofconsurv3908]

I definitely agree

[@colleenwatson]

Great video . Great for camping and day trip to my woodlot . Good meal suggestions.

[@melaniedunkley3030]

You can rehydrate food with cold water. Soak for about an hour and then warm up. Saves gas.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Very true. Often I only carry enough water for drinking. I usually take my cooking water from lakes and streams which of course should be treated or boiled before use. I prefer to make a fire either in a pit or a twig stove for cooking so fuel is usually not an issue. If I depended on a gas/alcohol stove I would definitely use your suggestion. Thanks for commenting

[@melaniedunkley3030]

Thanks for the great ideas. I've been looking for ideas for real food instead of lots of packaged food. I've usually dehydrated all in one meals that include the meat and rice or pasta, so I'll try your suggestions of dehydrating these things separately. My main concern is that cooking meat separately and only adding the flavourings later will affect the taste as the flavour won't have much time to develop.

[@davidson_oldbull_sectionhiker]

My reasoning for pre-soaking is that I don't like cleaning a pot so I freezer bag cook.

[@uralbob1]

Great idea!

[@jajwritersblock]

Dried mushrooms are a great addition. I love the dried shiitake or other kinds you get at asian markets. In the process of reconstituting they make a rich broth. Tons of flavor for almost zero weight. Caveat: Whole they take a long time to reconstitute. Best to break them up into much smaller bits.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Great suggestion. Would add great flavour and texture. Even better if you can forage your own mushrooms. Also a goo tip and making the pieces small for faster re-hydrating. Thanks for commenting

[@JonJaeden]

It may just be me, but I can't bring myself to rinse the ground beef prior to dehydrating it. It's a sacrilege to send flavor down the drain. So, when I'm prepping ground beef, I have a pot of beef stock simmering on the stove. I put the cooked beef in the hot stock, give it a stir and the fat comes to the top. I skim that off, strain the stock and placed the stock-rinsed beef in the dehydrator. Depending on how much beef I'm processing, I end up with a very rich stock for other meals.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

I agree with what you are saying about losing flavour by rinsing the ground beef. I have been trying out a new way of making gravel using bread crumbs to absorb and hold some of the fat. So far it has worked out well. I have a video on this if you are interested. I will also consider the method you are using. Thanks for commenting

[@cozrocks1]

Thank you for being so genuine and candid. I enjoy your videos because you display common sense, common courtesy and true class without pretense. Your joy in being outdoors is evident in all your videos and is inspirational in it's message. Keep it up.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Thank you for your kind words

[@bongothom]

I've watched dozens of backpacking Meal videos this week. Yours is the best I've seen. Thanks for posting it.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Thank you for the kind words and I am glad you found the information helpful. I plan to do an update video at some point as well

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Some great ideas there. I have done quite similar. Thanks for sharing.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Glad you enjoyed. Don't recall seeing a video of yours on the topic. Would love to see what you do. Thanks Lonnie

[@uralbob1]

This is very good advice. I already dehydrate my veggies, but you've taken it to another level. Thank you!

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

You're so welcome! Thanks for commenting

[@adventureseeker9800]

This is freaking brilliant! I cant even begin to calculate how much sodium is being avoided. I'm a fan of mountain house and dont have hypertension but the salt content in some freeze-dried meals is insane. Thanks for the well presented tutorial.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for commenting

[@graemer3657]

I really.enjoyed this video. Lots of insights and knowledge to learn from. Thanks for posting this!

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for commenting

[@gregoryhare6538]

I like to thank you for the info. For the low budget food and with nutrition what's needed and for what you have given us the low price that some food that's solid all together that is expensive and i like the way you put together and I'm going to try it. And thanks for the great help you have provided.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

I am glad you found my video helpful. Thanks for commenting

[@carolsyman5868]

I make split pea soup, puree it in blender, then dehydrate it. To make rehydration easier I use a blender or food processor to powder the soup. I find ratio if 1/2 cup powder to 1 1/2 cups boiling water is a good starting point for a 2 cup bowl of soup. Stirring will give a consistently smooth rehydrated soup. Really appreciate your concern for a balanced and nutritious meal and thanks for sharing your method. I'm not a camper anymore but will use these ideas to put together survival meals.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Sounds delicious and well thought out. Thanks for commenting

[@illyadmark3223]

Looking forward to seeing more of your ideas. Always looking for ways to get away from the pre-packaged meals. Thanks!

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Was just thinking about doing an update video on making trail meals as I need to replenish my supply. Thanks for commenting

[@seniorchiefharris]

Thanks soooo much for the video! I really enjoyed it and learned alot! I and I'm sure others would love to see a few other recipes that you have to give us a better idea of other meals to make and have on hand! Again, thanks for all you do and keep up the great work!

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Glad you enjoyed the video. I may do an update at some point in the future with some newer recipes. Thanks for commenting

[@delb0y1967]

More excellent advice, I am very tempted to get a dehydrater, would save me a lot in the long run. Thanks Mark.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

I bought my first dehydrator second hand and it lasted me ten years. I re-sold it for the same amount I paid for it...can't beat that for an investment. Thanks for commenting

[@rageoid]

PRO-cess - a Canadian friend ! Very well done sir. Appreciate the solid shill free non-corporate product hawking content !!

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Thanks for commenting

[@wanderingcalamity360]

Heard a trick that seems to help with the gravel: After you go through the usual steps of browning and rinsing, throw it in the blender with some breadcrumbs or crackers and puree it smooth, with water as needed to keep your blender from burning up. Then put it in your jerky gun and spread it out in the dehydrator like usual. You can also do it with chicken. The idea is that the breadcrumbs bind in between the meat particles and aid in rehydration, as they're more hydrophilic than the protein. It seems to help, in my limited testing, and doesn't really seem to adversely affect the flavor or texture.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Interesting suggestion. I have an update video where I add breadcrumbs to the ground beef during the frying. It makes a difference in rehydration and flavor/texture but it does not last as long. I keep it in the freezer until I plan on using it. I also make jerky from ground beef. I don't have a jerky gun so I role it out. I will give this idea a try. Thanks for commenting

[@wanderingcalamity360]

@@MarkYoungBushcraft Yeah, the jerky gun isn't essential.

[@MrWmburr7]

You never cease to amaze me, Mark! Putting that Shepherd's Pie was a real eye opener for me. Good stuff . . . thank you.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

LOL...all about using the imagination...and being too cheap to pay for store made hiking meals. Thanks for commenting

[@robertchilders4031]

Thank you very much. I liked your video. I am not sure all the products you reviewed are available in the US, but you've certainly presented alternatives to get someone started on these methods of feeding one's self. Subscribed and I look forward to seeing some more.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

I expect a lot of the bulk foods should be available but I am sure some of the packaged foods will be different. I know you can get things that we can't. Like individual packages of SPAM...Thanks for commenting

[@Kat-es4xb]

As a homecook headed for the trail you've given me a lot of "food for thought". :-) My girls and I are headed to the PCT '19 and this is exactly what I've been looking for in the way or keeping us from missing home too much. Thanks!

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Glad I was able to provide you with some ideas. Hiking the PCT with your girls sounds exciting. I am sure it will be an adventure of a lifetime. Thanks for commenting

[@oxxnarrdflame8865]

Excellent video. Like you I found commercial foods expensive and I made my own. I also discovered buck wheat from Lars, great find. I always started presoaking my dried items when I got to camp to cut the cook/fuel times.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Lars is where I learned about buckwheat as well. I usually have to boil my water to make it safe before I can add the meals otherwise I would pre-soak them to save time or fuel. Thanks for commenting

[@jamesfishfish9099]

Mark I make a small bag of summer sausage 4 boiled eggs and and a 1/2 can of black olives In there own bag I found this is a High protein and great for a lunch That REALY fills you up

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Interesting recipe James

[@jelkel25]

I just put the water in with the dehydrated food first thing then set up camp. By the time I'm done the food just needs heating. These self made dehydrated meals definitely leave me feeling a little less toxic over several days in the outdoors, they cut down on pack weight and bulk and best of all its all stuff you want in them. I like rice noodles, try finding a ready made meal with them in. It's definitely good to know to a greater extent what meat is in your meals too, some of the ready made stuff tastes like it's one step away from ending up in dog food and you're paying top dollar for it.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

That technique works great. In the winter, unless there is a lot of snow, I have to carry all the water I will be drinking or cooking with so I could do that as long as I can keep it from freezing. In summer, I like to use lake or stream water to cook with. I prefer to boil that before adding food. If I filtered more often I could use you technique more. Thanks for commenting

[@ScottWConvid19]

Might I recommend dehydrating stinging nettles to add to your foods? Stinging nettles have Vitamin A, B complex, C, D, and K. Has a liberal amount of protein as well as a very high mineral content and among many other nutritional benefits, it is also highly effective in controlling anemia, diabetes, the formic acid content dissolves cholesterol, and really way more medicinal benefits than I would care to list, but suffice it to say, it is a very healthy and delicious addition to any meal. It is also a good investment to learn what local "weeds" are edible. This time of the year, the woods are bringing forth more than enough nutrition to make meals, although the carbohydrates are minimal.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Absolutely. Great idea. Spring is slow to arrive in Nova Scotia and nothing is coming up out of the ground yet. Once we have new growth I plan on foraging for a number of edible and medicinal plants. Nettles is first on my list. Thanks for commenting

[@ScottWConvid19]

+Mark Young. Thanks for making such a lengthy and profitable video and replying. I'm in Indiana. The foraging has begun!!! :) I went out and harvested a LOT of nettles, violets, chives, dandelions, plantain, yarrow, garlic mustard and that is just the beginning. I hope you get thawed out soon. I do not envy the longer winters you endure, but it sure would make for a much more enjoyable Spring and summer, no doubt,

[@joshuabrooks555]

This video IS fantastic education and helpful. Transferable knowledge.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

I am glad you found the video helpful. I hope to make an update video soon. Thanks for commenting

[@woolmanoutdoors6225]

Good timing, I'm training for a thru hike of the Rideau trail in Ontario and this will save me a few dollars as I have the dehydrator. I used it a few years ago, packed it away and forgot all about it:) I like the frozen veg to dehydrated idea. One of my favourites is dehydrating hamburger helper. Did blueberries for my oatmeal once, they take forever but make a big difference in your morning oatmeal. Cheers

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Couple of great ideas. We pick our own strawberries and blueberries. I will have to try drying them. I will look at the hamburger helper idea as well. Thanks for commenting

[@tsavage4185]

Great video Mark. Those are the same types of trail (fishing) meals I make. I use a pea soup mix with chicken oxo and spaghetti noodles that is really good. I also cold soak the soup mix overnight and it takes less time to cook the next day. Cheers

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Cheap, easy and tasty..best of all worlds. If I was doing an overnight or even a longer stay in a spot I would also pre-soak. Mots of the time I am using river or lake water to cook with so I want to boil it first...unless of course I purified it...Thanks for commenting

[@Woodswalker1965]

Some good options Mark I use the same systems when on the trail. Have you ever thought of using a reflectix cozy with your freezer bag meals? It cuts down on your boiling time, saves fuel and works great! I cant believe we live in a country where single serve Spam isnt available! 😃 I stock up when I go to the good ol USA.👍👍

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

I was actually going to show the three or four reflectix cozies that I use but forgot... Your the man when it comes to cooking outside. Always enjoy the meals you prepare. Thanks for commenting

[@Woodswalker1965]

Mark Young. I learned a few pointers from you lol keep em coming bud!

[@scottroder5516]

Mark I have cooked omlettes in those bags. Just put the eggs, cheese, salsa in the bag and throw it in the boiling water. My point is, if you would rehydrate the stuff and then throw the whole thing in the pot of water, it would keep it warm while it cooks. No pot to clean

[@no_peace]

I love this channel. This is one of the best videos I've seen for shelf stable, lightweight foods. I want to start backpacking but even more than that I want to have a 7-day emergency bag I can realistically carry for 7 days Thank you!

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

You are most welcome. I am glad you found it helpful. I hope to make more videos on the topic

[@northwind7409]

Another ingredient I enjoy is black beans. Canned black beans are, of course, already cooked and dry quite quickly. They tend to split in the process, so are equally quick to rehydrate.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

I have not used black beans much but will be adding them to my mixes. Thanks for commenting

[@jeffceriotti]

Great channel btw. You do a great job explaining things. Very thorough and easy to understand. You earned a subscriber

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Glad you are enjoying my channel and thank you for subscribing

[@ndrthrdr1]

Thoroughly mixing powdered gravy mix with potato flakes, then mixing into hot water, helps prevent gravy lumps.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Good suggestion. Thanks for commenting

[@anthonythibodeau8894]

2 years later I know but I'm new to backpacking and I didn't want to spent all of the money on pre-pacted meals, awesome idea and great video !

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Glad you enjoyed the video. I am planning to make an update video on the topic soon. Thanks for commenting

[@phoebegraveyard7225]

Mark, did you forget to add a handful of dried hamburger or TVP? It’s nice to see that I’m not the only one dehydrating my own food. Also, before you seal up the bag, insert a straw half way down and suck the air out. Cheaper than a vacuume pack and it makes the bag smaller . I would also suggest teasing foods before going on a trip. Sometimes I think, this would be great with a touch of curry or some pepper or something. So easy to add at home. Cheers from up the coast.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Good point about the straw. I used to do that before I was given a Food Saver vacuum sealer. Will probably do an update at some point and include these tips. Reminds me, I need to make some more dehydrated ground beef (gravel). Thanks for commenting

[@lukeduke244]

Thanks. I am planning a 30 day hike and trying to eat healthy on a tight food budget. I will be watching more. Subbed.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Glad you found value in my video. Wow, 30 days on the trail sounds awesome. I am envious.

[@sandywieringa7421]

When you sealed up the bag for the Shepherd's Pie, I had a serious "Where's the beef?" moment! OMG, am I showing my age, or what? LOL. Awesome video, Mark. You've given me some great ideas!

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

"Where's the beef?"...LOL... That was 1984. Seems like just yesterday. Thanks for commenting

[@montyollie]

This is BRILLIANT. Best video on trail meals I've ever seen. And a fellow Canuck too!

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Glad you enjoyed brother. Thanks for commenting

[@montyollie]

One more quick question for you... I just went on kijiji and there seem to be two types of dehydrators -- a REALLY cheap white plastic circular one with clear plastic tiers, and a very expensive black square box with three or four drawers which look like silicon. Which one do you have. Are they all the same? And have you ever dehydrated fish?

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

I have been using the inexpensive type dehydrator (bought second hand) for about 6 years. It has worked within its limitations (one heat setting and the need to rotate trays every few hours for even drying). I just purchased a better dehydrator with adjustable heat settings but have no experience with it. If I was doing high volume drying, or could afford the added cost, I would consider buying the better versions that have adjustable heat settings and even air circulation. However, the inexpensive version is a good way to start. I have not dried fish yet but I will look into it. Hope this helps

[@no_peace]

The "textured vegetable protein" (TVP) sounds exotic but is available in some conventional stores... Bob's Red Mill sells it, and also there's a huge Augason farms can at Walmart. It's a couple of bucks per pound. Even if i didn't like it, I'd like it anyway :) if you don't like the texture of it in tacos or sloppy joes, you can use it in something like a vegetable soup and you'll probably hardly notice it. The Augason farms cans come in chicken and beef flavors, too. I am a vegan but a lot of people who aren't veg buy it anyway because it's cheap, it's high in protein and it can be stored for a really long time. It's a great travel or emergency food!

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

I use it in many of my meals. Often mixing it with other protein sources. I don't mind the texture at all. The only issue I experience eating it is getting gassy if I eat a lot. Not a deal breaker, if you are alone😂. Thanks for commenting

[@ThornDraven]

i had no idea you could dehydrated alot of that stuff, awesome.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

and a lot more...these are just the things I use for most of my meals. thanks for commenting

[@power_of_Christ_God]

Thorn Draven Word

[@seamus-xi7hz]

The kitchen oven makes a serviceable dryer for vegetables that are cut into a small dice, or Juliane; turn the oven to the lowest setting ( 73 or 75 c ) and spread the cut vegetables out on a flat cookie sheet. It takes 3 or 4 hours, but it will thoroughly dehydrate vegetables.

[@kalpoulard6313]

Great tips Mark, solid advice. I'm also a big fan of DIY meals, learned about the PC heavy duty bags... thanks.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

There are bags made especially for cooking in but I did some research and some trial and error and found the HD bags work well and are safe to use. Thanks for commenting

[@frugalmum7943]

Cauliflower soup: Coconut milk powder, dehydrated cauliflower, curry powder (high in tummeric, a natural anti inflammatory), chicken stock cube, water. Add flour and herbs of choice to make damper.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Sounds great! Thanks for commenting

[@JediMasterVictor]

Excellent information! Thanks so much for sharing your knowledge and expertise.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Glad you found the video helpful. Thanks for commenting

[@lunapluto491]

Such great ideas! Thanks so much for sharing.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

I am glad you found the video helpful. I am planing an update sometime soon. Thanks for commenting

[@SalaWalter]

Terrific and very insightful video, Mark. Thank you so much for sharing! :)

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Glad you found the video helpful. Thanks for commenting

[@YourJourney2Wellness]

"If you're going to ask me for a recipe, don't" That was priceless. LOL. The best chefs never use a recipe anyway. Thank you for this and it was incredibly helpful. Your video showed up in my suggested list as I was searching for healthier backpacking recipes and was pleasantly surprised to hear you are a fellow Nova Scotian. Thank you for all the inspiration.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Hello neighbour. Glad you found the video helpful. Thanks for commenting

[@miken7629]

For my protein, I use Dehydrated Refried Beans I buy at Walmart. !/2 Cup Minute Rice, 1/2 Cup Dehydrated Refried Beans, 1 TBSP Old El Paso Taco Seasoning, and 1 Cup Boiling Water. In 5 minutes, you get Spanish Rice & Beans. I can live on Rice & Beans. Adding cheese and Fritos is great.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Sounds excellent. I have not been able to find the dehydrated beans here in Canada. Thanks for commenting

[@larrymoore5886]

Just found your channel. Great information. Thanks.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for commenting

[@lesliesadler8524]

Thank you for a very good video. You have brought some new possibilities for me.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

I am glad you found the video helpful. Thanks for commenting

[@teddvidler6830]

Great one Mark. Shared with hunting and camping friends and family. Two thumbs up for this one.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Thank you my friend. Sharing is what it is all about

[@thatguyonabicycleofconsurv3908]

I haven't found very many people that I doing this I encourage you to keep doing it with different recipes and the how to on each recipe actually make it while you're talking about it thank you for such a very informative video

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Glad you found the video helpful. I do plan to continue this series. Thanks for commenting

[@shatterpointgames]

Fantastic video, more people should see this. You really have become well researched and educated on this

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Thank you for your kind words. Mostly comes from wanting to save money and eat healthy at the same time. Thanks for commenting

[@shatterpointgames]

@@MarkYoungBushcraft I've used similar tactics as well to save money, I've never taken it to the lengths you have and really learned a lot from your video. My problem with most videos is that most backpackers just love blowing hundreds of dollars on things just because they are marketed as backpacking supplies. When really it's just rebranded version of things we buy for cheap every day. Thanks for the upload!

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

@@shatterpointgames You are most welcome

[@LaurentGouzouAKALynx]

Well Mark as an old fan of dehydrated meal home made you made me learn few interesting points. First I never think to use frozen vegies it's a real good idea. The quinoa is also new to me I guess I should try it. Let me give you 2 of my ideas. After having tried some dry surimpose from a chinesse grocery I had dehydrated my own, why because their were far too salty. Second when I intent to have some rice, once I'm about an hour or so from stoping for lunch ,I already add the water In a plastic container so it goes faster and same some fuel needs. It's so fun to prepare ourself those meal sur as it is for all meals because you control what you put In it and you select the Quality of your ingrédients . Keep on those recipe brother it makes me hungry 😉😂😉😂 Ciao from Québec 😂

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Hey Laurent (Lynx)... I agree about letting some of my dried items re-hydrate in water before cooking but I usually use water from a stream or lake so I want to purify with my Sawyer mini or boil it... I usually boil it first... maybe you could share some of your recipes?? Thanks for commenting

[@anitavaughn1968]

I love the way you do your meals.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Thank you very much

[@ajtaylor560]

Loved this video possibly because you are so right, cost and quality!! Finding buckwheat anywhere in North America is a chore. Ever since I started watching SR and listening to Lars I to wanted to try it.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

wow..no buckwheat... I had no problem finding it here in Canada at the Bulk Barn bulk food store. Have you tried the health food stores?? Thanks for commenting

[@flatlander19545]

the buckwheat is good but different. I too learned about this from SURVIVAL RUSSIA also..Another great grain too carry is BARLEY or QUICK BARLEY witch is pre cooked and very good. Thanks for the great tips......Sven.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

I have not been able to find quick barley here but I have precooked and dehydrated barley to make it easier to prepare when I am in the woods. Thanks for commenting

[@flatlander19545]

www.amazon.com/Quaker-Quick-Barley-Healthy-Minutes/dp/B076VWCVC4/ref=sr_1_7_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1526820253&sr=8-7&keywords=quick+barley

[@randal1470]

Right on Mark, great vid, we do things very similar. I got to love some of the non-meat protein products, from sheer handyness. With the gravel, I was told to mix the burger with bread crumbs before dehydrating to help make it less gravelly...it works quite well.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

i will have to try mixing the bred crumbs with the burger meat. Thanks Randal

[@markcummings6856]

Extremely comprehensive. Thanks for sharing.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Glad you found the video helpful. Thanks for commenting

[@jamieporter6305]

Good stuff Mark ... and timely as I'm prepping for a Spring canoe trip now & plan to go with all homemade freezer bag meals.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Hope it helps. Enjoy the trip. Thanks for commenting

[@MichaelTravis12c27]

This was a great video Mark. I've been wanting to start putting together my own hiking meals. You've given me some good ideas. Time to dust off the dehydrator.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Glad to be of service Mike...Would love to hear about what you come up with

[@seamus-xi7hz]

Thanks for yet another informative, and instructive video. Yours, is one of the most interesting, and prolific sources of information among my subscriptions. You mentioned the over salted taste of many of the commercially prepared dehydrated meals; a trick that I learned from my late mother was to add a small bit of granulated sugar to counteract the salty taste. The taste buds on our tongues react, primarily, to the tastes of salt, and sugar, so the introduction of one will ameliorate the taste of the other... have found it to work quite well, so carrying an empty medication phial, with a few grams of sugar might be a solution ... Cheers.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Interesting idea on adding the sugar. I will give that a try. I still enjoy making and eating homemade meals (new videos coming) but I also found a great brand of commercial meals that are way less salty. Check out Happy Yak meals if you are interested. Thanks for commenting

[@seamus-xi7hz]

@@MarkYoungBushcraft Will give Happy Yak a try. Thanks for the suggestion ... Cheers.

[@jasoncole5192]

This was fantastic and so insightful. Thank you sir!

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Glad you found the video helpful. Thanks for commenting

[@bobhan6395]

Salted pork is good with bean. Really enjoying your videos, great contents and great delivery!

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Salt pork is the best. Keeps for a while but I wish I could dehydrate it for longer term. Thanks for commenting

[@shovelhead8]

Idahoan is probably the best instant potatoes.You can dehydrate cooked dried beans and cooked pasta as well. Thank you for the video, Mark

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

I do love the Idahoan. I have done beans and pasta as well just didn't have any at the time of the video. Guess its time to make some more...Thanks for commenting

[@onecalledmichael]

Well done Mark. Just gearing up for a pretty easy backcountry trip here in Ontario at Kawartha Highlands Park. I've always gone a bit overboard with food and I like your sensible approach.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Glad you found the video helpful. Always good to have more food than you think you need. Thanks for commenting

[@joybickerstaff194]

Hi ya Mark! Aw, I was hoping for more meal examples, do u think u could give me a few. These meals make for a lighter pack opposed to a pack with fresh foods. I don’t go into the woods for the foods, I go there to be alone/with another, to experience all it’s beauty and wonders, to explore, be free of the city, breath in fresh air and to listen to the most beautiful music ever created. Thank u

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

I am planning on providing more detail in an upcoming video or two on how I put the meals together and prepare them when I am out. In truth, I am not a great backwoods chef myself. I find I don't want to spend a whole lot of time or effort cooking. I am usually on the move more than I am sitting. That is why I prefer to make simple, inexpensive but still tasty and health dehydrated meals. Thanks for commenting

[@darylsargent4157]

Hi mark I’m from central Alta have you seen the Townson video on portable soup ? Kind of a neat idea for the diy trecker you can make it with venison bones and tougher cuts like the shanks

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Actually, you are the second person to mention the Townsend video recently. I have watched it and will give it a try. Townsend has a great channel. Thanks for commenting

[@fishing4truth91]

Good tutorial Mark; I especially appreciate that you mentioned the high sodium content in most processed foods. I'm highly sensitive to high sodium content. Being on a strictly low sodium diet, I must read every label carefully before adding it to my cart. I want to buy an entry level dehydrator, but have not found the one you showed for $20. Another great video Mark.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Glad you found the video helpful. I found this dehydrator on Kijiji but have seen inexpensive ones available at Walmart. Hope this helps. Thanks for commenting

[@victorvasquez2788]

Thank you sir, nice idea with the ground beef.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

It takes a while to re-hydrate but is a great way to add protein to a meal. Thanks for commenting

[@truthseeker3977]

Fantastic tips and I'm not halfway through vid. Will try some out Mark.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

I am planning an update video, hopefully soon. Thanks for commenting

[@unlimitedpotential6573]

Thank you! Very informative, a lot I wouldn't have thought of!

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

You are most welcome. I ma glad you found it helpful. Thanks for commenting

[@unlimitedpotential6573]

I came home from work super excited to tell my wife all about "gravel". We use ground meat a lot, and that's not only useful camping stuff, but I could use this at home.

[@tronalpha9137]

G"day from Queensland Australia. I live on an 25 ft yacht and as space is limited on an pocket size sailing boat, a lot of my food is dried and that includes T.V.P. I will sometimse use an stock cube as the t.v.p hydrates gets some extra flaver as it lacks flaver. theres a tip for you. Gerard.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Great tip for sure. Thanks for commenting

[@tronalpha9137]

No problem. Will let you know if i have any more that may be usfull. Thanks for your reply. Gerard.

[@jackvoss5841]

I buy - from Gordon Food Service - freeze dried refried beans. They are designed for rehydration on a steam table. I process the beans into a fine meal consistency for faster rehydration, divide the bag of beans into 20 servings, and place servings into a sandwich-sized Ziplock bags. I add some ground cumin and powdered garlic to each one. After rehydration in camp, I spread the beans on a wholewheat tortilla and add some freshly diced onion. I like a few dashes of Tabasco to “wake up” the beans. Note: beans are a legume; the whole wheat is a grain. Legumes and grain together form protein. Onions add vitamins and flavor. Courtesy of Half Vast Flying

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Thanks for commenting

[@shawnr6117]

That was helpful ! it's nice to find someone who references stores I actually can and do shop at. Shout out from my👍

[@shawnr6117]

Stupid autocorrect it should say NB

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Hello neighbour. Glad to be of service. Thanks for commenting

[@shawnr6117]

You're welcome. I'm planning on getting back into backpacking this summer and I need almost everything so I've been checking out people's videos. Any recommendations on budget friendly gear would be much appreciated. PS I did hit the subscribe button

[@subseeker]

I would've loved to see what kind of finished meal it would've been

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

I use many of these meals in my videos. Thanks for commenting

[@jeffsmith5589]

I ll be trying this sir. Here in south Florida I make sure I have 2 weeks worth of food at all times and a ton of water

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Two weeks store of food is good advice for anyone. We are fortunate in Nova Scotia. We rarely get extreme heat or cold and very few hurricanes. Stay safe

[@adventaursadventure7785]

Great video and very informative. I didn't know you can dehydrate so many different foods. This will help me a ton on food and money before I begin my very long long long long hike!!

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Glad you found the video helpful. I have to ask, what is your long hike?

[@adventaursadventure7785]

@@MarkYoungBushcraft I will be hiking the entire Arizona trail, than connect to the Spanish Historic Trail and than on the entire PCT.

[@sargeoutdoors]

very informative video. thanks for sharing and thanks for the ideas

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Glad I was able to provide you with some ideas. Thanks for commenting

[@fishngnana68]

Great freeze-dried meals from Happy Yak. Can't wait to try them

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Let me know what you think. Thanks for commenting

[@FlashGeiger]

When I dehydrate I weigh the stuff before and after so I know how many grams (mls) of water to rehydrate. That helps for some ingredients. I use a vacuum sealer and put all the individual bits in separate bags inside one over bag...(eg a bit of beef gravel to go in the water even before I put it on the stove, then a bit of dried spaghetti sauce and dried mushroomsto add when it's almost boiling, then another bit of ww couscous to add at the end). Good tip on the canned chicken. I should try that. I've dehydrated ground chicken as I would ground beef, but haven't had a chance to rehydrate it yet.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

I know I should weigh before and after dehydrating for best results but I have being doing okay by just covering the meal with water. It seem to be the right amount most of the time. I would like to buy a vacuum sealer to add to my kit. It would make things easier. I do separate items for some meals like "shepherds pie" because of the cook times. Your suggestions are great. Glad you liked the chicken idea. Thanks for commenting

[@FlashGeiger]

As you say, for most things it doesn't matter, but I don't like pasta sauce that's too watery, for example. I already had the vacuum sealer for other reasons (I often cook "sous vide" at home so I need the "vide")

[@joybickerstaff194]

Hi ya Mark! Thank u for ur replies, I’ll respond to them all here. I can’t wait for ur other meal options, but I’ll patiently wait 🙂 , I’m no chief either Lol. I’m sry, I must have misunderstood, I thought u said u put ur dehydrated food n freezer, that’s what I was referring to on my concerns to the sweating and mold. I will definitely be getting a food saver, not only for the trail, but to stock up on at least 6 months worth for any unforeseen happenings (as I once experienced w/ an unexpected big bill, dandelion roots r quite tasty) as for the bags, it’s wonderful to know that I can cut to size. That was also nice of Dan, helping me out, more people need to be like him, which also helps u and other channels out. Thank u

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Thanks Joy. Based on a few of the comments I have received in the last few days I may add more content to the followup videos than I originally planned. Looks like a very popular subject. I hope I can do it justice

[@joybickerstaff194]

Mark Young Hi ya Mark! These dehydrated meals r most definitely a good to know! I not only see them to have on a pleasure hike, but to have Incase of emergencies, not enough money to buy groceries. Having a supply of dehydrated meals to last a few weeks or more can relieve a lot of stress, especially for those with children. I take what u’ve shown seriously because I have experienced hunger. I have no doubts n u, u’ll do it justice, u always do. Thank u

[@newbievloggerandphotograph2438]

I am lazy so I buy dehydrated vegetables. I also use the instant potatoes - I usually use the ones that are cheese flavored. For the meat, I use Spam (readily available here) or precooked meats. I have to try the gravel... I have a dehydrator so it should be easy enough. Also, instant rice is very nice and combining the veg, rice, and protein, you get a wonderful combo. I agree with a previous comment about dried shitake mushrooms (from an Asian store). They are very good. I usually add cheese and make a campfire combo out of it. Thanks for your ideas.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

I need to try some dried shitake. I am planing a follow up video including drying ground meat to make gravel. Thanks for commenting

[@Shortmansydrome]

as a big meat eater i eat heaps of TVP texured vegetable protein back packing. if youre eating it minced with a curry or soup you canyt tell the difference and its super high in protien

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Thanks for commenting

[@trytheoutdoors]

Thank you sir. Really helpful. To be clear though - you add the boiling water to the bag, wait 10 minutrs and then add the mash potato last? ? I guess in this new age of rejecting single-use plastic, you might even wash and re-use the bag?

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

You are most welcome. Yes, with the "Shepards Pie" I add the instant potatoes just before I am ready to eat. If I add them any sooner they would interfere with the other meal contents absorbing water. I often do re-use the bags if they are in good shape. Thanks for commenting

[@squirrelcovers6340]

Freeze dried foods do not require salt for preservation. It is added to replace lost electrolytes from sweating. It's there for that reason.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Thanks for commenting

[@thatguyonabicycleofconsurv3908]

Great news...... And possibly when you get more ready for the big adventure you might want to do a episode on how you start to finish do the drawing of a product

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Glad you enjoyed the video. I do plan on making more videos on preparing and cooking dehydrated meals. Thanks for commenting

[@carsokk]

Very good & informative video. Thank you Mark for the good work. I do find it funny that 36 people gave this video a thumbs down (vs 2.5K giving it a thumbs up). What's not to like? If you're not planning a backpacking trip or the like, why even look at this video? And if you are planning a backcountry trip, the video is exactly what the title says it is..so???

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Glad you enjoyed it. I am not concerned about the thumbs-down. Likely because of the length of the video. Thanks for commenting

[@paulrudd1063]

I really liked your video. Thanks for making it. I found it very instructional and entertaining. Cheers, from the Mallee in Victoria.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

I am glad you enjoyed the video. Thank you for watching and commenting

[@jimf1964]

Haha! You watched Lars and his buckwheat. You need some pig fat, and super soup too then. )) Yeah, those pre made meals are great for once in a while, just to have sort of thing, but home made stuff is best. That's quite the recipe though. Mine are usually more simple. I'd suggest something like a little lard to throw in with the meat, or something fatty to take on a cold trip, but other than that, pretty nice. I didn't know about dehydrated veggies that aren't part of soup.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Yes, I did get the buckwheat idea from Lars. All kinds of ideas for making up some good trail food. Thanks for commenting

[@tomwaits4205]

Being from Halifax you should figure out how to dehydrate a Donair! Great video.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Working on it😆. Thanks for commenting

[@suzannebeaudry6245]

Healthy foods in the Bush... wonderful.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Just takes a little planning. Thanks for commenting

[@wheelsgonewild1286]

Excellent choices. You can cook some great meals with those items.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

I found some new soup mixes at Bulk Barn recently that I am trying out...so far, so good. Thanks Dave

[@tysonjez]

Your channel is awesome. As a fellow canuck, its refreshing seeing things we can get easily in Canada. I especially like your camp stove comparison series

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Glad you are enjoying me channel. I have a few more stove videos to make. What part of Canada are you from?

[@tysonjez]

I am from prince albert, Saskatchewan. Prairie to the south and boreal forest/canadian shield to the north. A 3 hour drive north and we have Rapids and waterfalls. Sask has some amazing wilderness. People tend to forget its 50% forest.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

@@tysonjez We have a big and beautiful country with so much diversity. I have been to the west coast but not the prairie provinces...yet. You are right. I realised Saskatchewan could not be all flat prairie but did not know you had that much forest. Will make it out some day. Thanks for watching

[@keiiir]

I'm working on a bush ramen noodles. You have a few great tips!

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Glad you enjoyed. Thanks for commenting

[@Jillian1stJohn3-9-10]

Can you take the beans that normally take a long time to cook, and crush them so that they'll soften up quickly?

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

I have never tried that but it sounds reasonable. I have cooked and then dried beans which rehydrate well. I have not had good luck with baked beans and molasses though. Thanks for commenting

[@artjaazz1]

Hi Mark, a great video! I want to add one small correction: Buckwheat has 13 g / 26% protein per 100 g OR 23 g / 46% per cup (US), not 13%. Though maybe you were using some Canadian sources, I used US. I love buckwheat

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

I am glad you enjoyed the video. I am sure your math is better than mine. I will go back and take a look and add a correction in the show notes. Thanks for commenting

[@daveslifeover65]

Thank you Mark. This just the kind of video I can use.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Glad you enjoyed. Thanks for commenting

[@nicucoll]

Do you have a video on how you dehydrate your quinoa rice and veggies I’ve never used one

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

I do not currently have a video showing how to dehydrate foods. There are so many other great videos on the subject I did feel I could do it justice. I may make one in the near future as I am running low on meals and need to make some more. Thanks for commenting

[@jamesrichardson1326]

How about the BPA in the plastic coming out when you're cooking the food?

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Good question. The freezer bags I buy are BPA free. Thanks for commenting

[@g.victorpaulson8836]

With purely constructive intent, I would point out that your macronutrient values for quinoa are off. Should be carbs 70%, protein 14% and fat 16%. Love your videos!

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Thank you for your contribution

[@rustynails113]

I am going to try your approach to this. You presented very interesting food options. I have to be careful because iI am a diabetic........ this should be fun....and save a few bucks. Thank you for your labor on this video.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

I am glad you found value in the videos. I am planning on doing a few follow-up videos to this series with a bit more information on putting the meals together and then cooking them in the field. Thanks for commenting

[@tonyg3393]

@@MarkYoungBushcraft thankyou for your work. I for one would appreciate you doing a continuing series. Especially if you could design meals for newbees such as myself who use alcohol stoves that max out at 15mins burn time. - SYD AU