Homemade MRE from Walmart, Individual Meal

[@baneverything5580]

Red Cross handed out cases of MREs after hurricane Gustav hit Louisiana about 10 years ago. People picked up several for me and others who had bunches of them and didn`t like them gave me more. I thought they were delicious and I couldn`t always eat the entire thing. I ate them for months. There were a lot of extras like matches, toilet paper and even dental floss. A Vietnam Vet gave me one he saved from back then. It had cigarettes included. My region got hit twice by hurricanes in 2020 with no power for nearly 3 weeks.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Those humanitarian rations are hit or miss but some are quite good.

[@MrPHILLIPS369]

Glad you could enjoy my wasted tax dollars

[@ForwardWolf-Hobbies]

@baneverything5580 I to went threw a hurricane......Katrina. I ended up with cases of MREs. People would ask how can I eat those things. I would say with a fork most times, but the ones that sounded like cajun or mexican were the best. My neighbor Had meat going bad so i added some of my cans goods to the meal. we eat good that day. I bounced back and forth form MREs and stuff i put back for bad weather every year.😎

[@ForwardWolf-Hobbies]

@@MrPHILLIPS369 Up to the point of Katrina I never took dime from the goberment. I lose all the food in my refrigerator. So yes I took a food card from the goberment, from which I paid into for that reason. Not to start something....do you get back all of your paid in taxes? If you do you are not paying taxes. If you don't get back your taxes, why would you not take aid that you paid for.......just saying.

[@theamazingscarlett3141]

@@MrPHILLIPS369 soooo humanitarian efforts to feed & help people who had just been made homeless by a devastating natural disaster is a waste of tax dollars? i mean, you're a waste of skin. how's that any better?

[@ralphtate9159]

I truly enjoyed that you showed using items that can easily be bought. Many of the premade kits can be cost preventative, but doing it your way items can be purchased a little at a time to keep the cost spread out over time a period of time.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

For sure. And you’re only buying what you think you’ll like so there’s not a bunch of stuff being wasted.

[@samnjoeysgrama1]

What a great idea to make your own MREs! I'm going to send this to my two grandsons who are working toward Eagle Scout. Great idea for an emergency bag in the car, or your bug out bag if you're so inclined. Thank you!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Absolutely! Thanks for sharing!

[@robertgregory5260]

Good video. A lot of people who have not had to live off mre's for a long time; don't appreciate what a decent snack or a good entree mean as a morale booster.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Precisely. Why settle for bland if you can prepare your stock with things you’ll enjoy? So glad you get it!

[@PavewayJDAM]

It means constipation.

[@Bellejourney85]

​@@dadbudgetadventures the southwest bowl has textured soy protein in it which is a meat substitute.

[@russbilzing5348]

John Wayne Bars did it for me. Home made Gorp, any day.

[@jhill4874]

Thank you for NOT depending on tuna. Finally starting to see chicken in pouches.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Getting to be more and more great options.

[@nurabusnaq6367]

If you look around, corned beef in pouches exists. I’ve used chicken in pouches for ages.

[@jhill4874]

@@nurabusnaq6367 Chicken in pouches just started showing up around here.

[@saundrabechner8147]

You can make your own heat intensifier from something like a potted meat can and a wire hanger.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Ooh, that’s a cool idea!

[@arneedlund8512]

Do a video about it.

[@nurabusnaq6367]

Except for the plastic lining in some potted meats.

[@ronfugate5859]

Only got to char it once

[@BradfordKMassey]

Thanks for this one. I think it’s really cool to show the ways people would cook food in camp back in the days before $150 titanium alcohol stoves. Sterno has always been a go to for me since it’s so safe, cheap and reliable. Your MREs are very good for real life natural disaster evacuation scenarios that happen every year in this country. When you’re told you have to leave due to flood, wildfires or hurricanes, it’s great to have these ready to go at a moment’s notice. Awesome! Thanks man!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you so much. I truly appreciate the kind words.

[@baneverything5580]

I searched for cookers that work with my small and medium sized solar power stations. I got 350w Dash griddles, 100w DC 12v rice cookers, and a regular 300w rice cooker. Plus I got some 12v and AC immersion water heaters but settled on using AC ones for now. I use my 600w one for heating bathing water in a 5 gallon bucket and a 300w plug in for heating water for instant coffee, ramen noodles, oatmeal, etc. The 12v stuff can be wired directly to solar panels.

[@patriciabarnhart1886]

Immersion water heater brought back some memories. I’m old enough that this and a galvanized tub was our bath clear through my high school years - no inside plumbing.

[@alphapennsylvania9439]

This man should be as popular as the other prepping youtubers if not more so. I'd love to see you make a hobo stove from a coffee can as that's as low budget as possible.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you! May just do that. Got great memories of doing that as a Boy Scout!

[@skittlemenow]

His videos so far are far more realistic than many of the "preppers" I've seen on this platform.

[@TheJkilla11]

​@@skittlemenowcouldn't agree more! He approaches this with a real perspective and not a doom and gloom for clicks from fear.

[@dianetigert1310]

I often wondered how the masses would eat the bugs and like it....hmmmmmmmm??

[@jakilafaele4019]

​@@dianetigert1310 as someone who grew up having to eat what was put in front of me, I know I would have a go at anything if I was in a situation that called for it. However, that will wait until that situation arises 🤣 My children would be OK too, probably not the grandies though🤣

[@heatherbrenner8275]

That sterno intensifier is pretty neat. I have been around sterno for forever (my dad was a cook) and I have never seen that. Very cool

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Yeah I found it by accident and had to have one.

[@PavewayJDAM]

This dude is the designated cook in any ad hoc zombie apocalypse scenario that befalls us.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

You gotta watch my back for me while I cook though. Don’t wanna burn dinner.

[@heatherbrenner8275]

@@dadbudgetadventures we will all form a circle around so you are well protected. We need that food to keep fighting the zombies. LOL

[@irenerex932]

I like the items that come in multi packs. It makes it easy to make a few MRE at a time. Thanks for all the ideas. A kids Mre would be a good idea for a video.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I’ve been thinking of trying to do a kid friendly or family MRE. Trouble is I haven’t found shelf stable chicken nuggets 😂

[@erikanichols9633]

​@@dadbudgetadventuresI would love to see a family MRE. I have an 8yo, 12yo, 16yo and 20 yo so lots of different tastes.

[@lskazalski]

Bonus of the individual MREs is that everyone can find something they like.

[@MinuteMan1999]

A good coffee is key to any MRE.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

For real and this one wasn’t it

[@CanadaFree-ce9jn]

Canadian IMPs had great instant coffee up to 2018, then they went with awful 3in1 coffees you typically see at Asian stores. I had to use two pre drink but you only get one per IMP.

[@Game-Preacher]

I spend a good deal of time in the bush and on the river and these meals are much more afforable than commercial camp foods or mre's.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

That’s kinda what started all this. Sometimes they get pricey but that’s mostly for fun due to the location. Plus you get to build it the way you want since you’re sourcing the contents yourself.

[@OverlandOne]

​@@dadbudgetadventuresExactly right. We can customize our meals to be exactly what we like, and therefore, nothing is wasted.

[@tizmehere492]

I have passed by your video a few times. It’s late at night and I can’t sleep. I clicked on your video. I am so happy that I did! This is just not what I had expected. Thanks so much for this. You have really given me a lot to think about and some ideas of things to pick up this weekend.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Great to hear I finally won you over. I thought at first you were going to tell me it fixed your inability to sleep 😂

[@susieramick7202]

Your videos are important. A wake up call for my family. We appreciate you. Thank you😊

[@dadbudgetadventures]

That means a lot. Thank you!

[@wes326]

Sardines are very healthy and cheap. I like the smoked ones in oil. More calories than the ones packed in water. Thanks for sharing.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Those are a great option if you like them. I’m not a fan but they are definitely something that meets the parameters for a great MRE component.

[@JazzyMamaInAK]

I've recently started eating them; even straight from the can as long as I have my container of lemon pepper 😊

[@lskazalski]

Kipper snacks on crackers with Frank's hot sauce. Perfectly good lunch

[@Q7WhinyGuy]

I'm happy you reviewed the Great Value BBQ pork, I picked up a few pouches of that awhile back just to have on hand but didn't actually try one out yet. Seemed like a good shelf-stable meat that you could quickly add to many sides, glad it didn't totally suck haha.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I’m super glad it didn’t suck. That would be a real disappointment!

[@lorettatayor5840]

add to ramen noodles is good too.

[@StrangersIteDomum]

​@@lorettatayor5840Packaged BBQ pork in ramen soup? Sheer madness

[@kennycraven2648]

Look forward to the couples mre. Should be fun to see the various items that one wants that the other doesn’t. Good luck.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you. Looking forward to that one.

[@stevemellas3087]

I've watched i don't know how many videos on prepping this one of the best thank you for doing it. I'm now working on stocking up with these kind of food packages ☢☣

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you so much. That’s an honor.

[@gen81465]

Try taking the dark chocolate pieces from your walk around mix and add them to the coffee.

[@craftsbeautyandlife5163]

I love how you sniff stuff. My family is sniffers😂

[@craftsbeautyandlife5163]

I think chicken would be good mixed with the southwest bowl

[@craftsbeautyandlife5163]

You look very handsome today

[@dadbudgetadventures]

That’s a great idea. That would be a treat.

[@gen81465]

@@craftsbeautyandlife5163 Depending on what you are sniffing, it could be a 'good' thing or a 'bad' thing. One of my cousins once thought it would be fun to sniff a bottle of red pepper chili powder. He sniffed too hard, and as "the nose knows", it wasn't as fun as he had imagined.

[@janita7014]

I’m so happy I found your videos! I’m planning to do a lot of solo, minimalist camping in my SUV this year and don’t want to pack a whole lot of gear, so these MREs are PERFECT for me! Incidentally, we live in the same metro area. I always like finding KZbinrs from home!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

That’s awesome! I’m always curious if any neighbors are discovering the channel! So glad you’re finding some inspiration here. Safe travels and happy camping!

[@forresthurrelbrink4885]

Keep up the great work. I enjoy using your suggestions for hunting and camping. I actually have a couple of your mres that I carry in my semi truck as part of my get home bag.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you so much. These kinds of comments keep me going!

[@timothyfischer9318]

I don't always heat my MRE meals, with the exception of boiled water for the instant coffee .. and sometimes I just shake in a water bottle and drink it cold... I have put together many homemade MRE packs over the years... for camping and what not... love your videos....

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thanks! The way I look at it you prepare it the way you like. I happen to like my food hot but some people are more tolerant of it at room temperature.

[@lskazalski]

That's hard core

[@stevenrogers4832]

We have used the pulled pork for a couple of years, as a topping for baked potato. It is not bad on Spanish rice either. I do like the sterno heat intensifier, just may have to seek it out. Enjoying the single meal Wal-Mart MRE. See you on the trail.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thanks! Happy adventuring!

[@phileller1958]

I'm glad I found your channel. I have a feeling I'm going to learn a lot here. Thank you!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thanks! I’m glad you’re here!

[@jeffbrown9648]

The kind protein bars are winner I really like them and have gone into all my meals. Thanks for the vegetarian tip. Food boredom is a thing and like you said I don't want to eat the same thing for every meal.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

For sure, and it’s easy to get bored with typical prepper foods

[@lskazalski]

LOVE Kind bars and Pro Bars. I keep a couple of Pro Bars in my day bag as a just in case meal replacement.

[@frankhinkle5772]

Even though the Vanilla flavored Black Rifle Coffee was a big miss, thanks for saving us from going down that path. If you do find a way to make it taste better, please let us know. This MRE from Walmart came in a a very good price and you apparently enjoyed everything but the coffee. Another reason why when I make my own pouches that I'll include a second drink option. Many thanks.

[@OtherSarah2]

Black Rifle's coffees are good if you don't get flavors that aren't coffee. But they are spendy. As a vet, I appreciate they're a vet-owned company.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

It was very good except for the coffee. Glad I found that out before I packed meals with it.

[@heatherbrenner8275]

I didn't know BRC made an instant coffee. MY bf loves the regular coffee for the kurig. I don't drink coffee but I am always looking out for stuff for my bf. He works at a racetrack and stays out there during the weekends so having easy stuff like this is priceless. I'll have to look out for something without the flavoring.

[@BandGeek2210]

Just found the channel….and lm impressed. An army infantryman from 1983-1988….lve eaten C rations and first generation MREs. This looks like a gosh darn great way to prep for emergencies without breaking the bank

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you! And thanks for your service.

[@krashkwads4688]

it does sound like a good combo, I'm ready to try it

[@dadbudgetadventures]

It really was!

[@DonP_is_lostagain]

"You dump the pulled pork into the pouch and eat it that way, but that doesn't look good on video." 'Let's get that out on a tray.' 😉😆

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Nice!

[@behindthespotlight7983]

nice.

[@lskazalski]

Daddy always said that half of how something tastes is how it looks.

[@jasonfowler7709]

Mmkay ​@@dadbudgetadventures

[@cl844]

thats the 1989th nice comment 😂😂😂

[@yourbluewaffle]

As I peanut butter and chocolate lover, I approve of this MRE. Definitely gonna give enough calories and put a smile on my face.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Absolutely!

[@choossuck7653]

Mre chocolate peanut butter spread is awesome with the white wheat snack bread

[@dadbudgetadventures]

It’s hard to beat MRE PB

[@lskazalski]

T2 Diabetic here. I like dark chocolate and the protein in the nuts helps balance out the sugar levels

[@NewHampshireJack]

We are happy to have found this chanel. A few of your videos convinced me that you are "on a roll" with great ideas. There are few food options available in sachets here in the Philippines. We most often have use canned meat as the main source of protein. Filipinos generally cook from scratch so local supermarkets stock few "instant" items. We experiment with side dishes such as Knorr instant mashed potatoes available only in a commercial size box. We learned that a single serving of the dry, instant mashed potatoes fit nicely in a 190ml coca cola plastic bottle that my Mother-in-law saves for us. There is room for some powdered chicken stock and dried herbs to take things up a notch. These kinds of items may also be repackaged with a vacuum heat sealing unit if you desire. We will be testing CO2 and nitrogen gases as part of our packaging to learn if this will help extend storage life. If you can boil water, you can enjoy some decent mashed potatoes with whatever canned good you choose. We did find small sachets of Hunt's baked beans in two flavours, They are not always in stock at the market so we purchase what we can when we can. The current project we are working on is a dorm survival kit for Beautiful Daughter who will soon be a college student. We plan a tote box with supplies to get her past any likely emergency until parents find a means to extract her from campus. A good supply of drinking water, food she likes and will eat and a safe means to heat that food in a dorm should do nicely. Ok, diatribe finished, now it is time to hit the subscribe button. We are watching from our "secret retirement location" in Bulacan Province, on Luzon Island, in the Republic of the Philippine Islands. Thank you big time for all you do to create these great videos.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thanks for the great ideas! It’s great to hear where people are watching around the world!

[@Brykk]

Id be interested to see you get some of the mashed potato flake packets (i like the idahoan brand personally) and use it to mix with other items. I usually make them by adding some water, some salt, and butter (or butter seasoning powder). Once its all mixed up, then i worry about warming it. I really like to put some in a bowl with some canned beef stew, chili, or about anything along those lines. My favorite is to add some chicken noodle soup, or chicken and dumplings to it, and then warm everything together. I just sat here and made myself hungry. Lol

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I may try a field ration type video soon with items that need to be prepared more. If I do I will add the potatoes.

[@fin59shaw]

Yes, I think potatoes are under rated, just as useful and tasty as rice and beans. Cover it with anything, and you can put any canned meat on top, mix it up!

[@as5who13]

I have been doing a very similar experiment for the last few years. And my idea was to improve on what US MREs are but be cost effective. Now I spent 8 years as an infantry soldier and have had my share of MREs. In my opinion you are on a great track.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you! Much appreciated!

[@samTollefson]

Your presentation is very good! Unpretentious and lacking a showboat ego, the type of guy you would be comfortable meeting as a stranger and sitting around a picnic table chatting with. Thank You!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you so much. That’s an honor

[@YourHumbleServant831]

I'm sure the folks from Loma Linda have their heads exploding over mixing Adventist food with pork! 😂😂😂

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I’m sure I’m on somebody’s list for that

[@yaledragon8628]

Those BBQ pork and easy Mac have been many dinners for me! Hahaaa

[@dadbudgetadventures]

That’s a perfect combo right there

[@MattTransit]

On a camping trip some 35 years ago, we experimented and made percolated coffee using Sterno and a standard Sterno stove. The percolator coffee pot was really small, maybe two cups total. It took a little while but the coffee was good. A Happy and Blessed Easter to you and your family!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Those little stoves really do perform well. Small and lightweight makes for a real advantage over some others.

[@tenchraven]

All for the booster item, even if it means two smaller walking around snacks, along with a second drink so you have one best hot the other best not. I'm used to having to deal with a cold/wet climate, and in a real no sith emergency, someone is on fire watch, so having that second helps make it to midnight when you swap. And loving adding pulled pork to vegan chili. Vegans have a weird aftertaste that goes away if you add even a small quantity of a second meat. 😁

[@dadbudgetadventures]

That makes sense. Every recipe has that weird taste until you figure out what it’s missing 😂

[@libertyg4402]

Hahahaha!!!

[@danieljones2183]

I made my intensifier from a short piece of copper pipe and three self tapping screws. Works good.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

That’s a great idea!

[@HarshmanHills]

Another great one. Have my first one coming out in couple weeks from dollar tree

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you. Hope yours is great!

[@simon6703]

I’ve used the pouches (in a hurricane kit) and I have to say as cool as the pouch storage system is, the good old fashion cans always seem to taste way better and longevity is excellent. For carry, the weight penalty is somewhat mitigated by the fact you use less water vs dehydrated. Just a thought. Enjoyed the presentation!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

You are absolutely correct. For storage it’s hard to beat canned goods.

[@crrider12564]

Great job, keep up the good work.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you!

[@DavidNoach65]

Back in the 80s in the military had the old style MREs. If you are hungry anything is good. These are probably a step up from those. Most people in the US have not truly been hungry.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Most have not. But most won’t do even basic preparation for a disaster so they may find out.

[@alpinealpine2793]

Dad, dad tell people to leave comments and to give each other thumbs up. Get that algorithm humming along.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Great idea!

[@Saltpork305]

My opinion is to include the extra item and choose either regular snack or protein or whatever based on how you're feeling about the MRE you're making. Options are good and having two walking around snacks or a hot chocolate mix or some morale booster is rarely turned down. I often do this on my day hikes with peanut M&Ms.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Definitely. I feel like they all need just a little extra.

[@pamartin]

A baby rocket stove! 🚀 Excellent add-on!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

It is a pretty cool little item.

[@j.j.savalle4714]

Happy Easter and thanks for another great homemade MRE vid! Love the honest good/bad perspectives on the food!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you so much. Happy Easter to you as well!

[@displacedyankee7819]

Glad I go up early today to catch this

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I’m glad you did too!

[@amywilson1046]

I think a good place to go would be a Casey’s if you have them in your area. If not, another gas station or truck stop maybe. I’m almost done with the MRE playlist. Looks like you also have camping videos I’ll check out next. I’d love to see the MRE idea applied to camping because I’ve been looking for ideas for good camping food that requires little to no use of a cooler, but still be good food. I don’t mind a more involved cooking process though, as we have multiple types of camp cook stoves, a folding Coleman oven, and cast iron for cooking on the fire. My niece and I are planning to do a camp weekend with all food being purchased at the Dollar Tree as a challenge.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Sounds like you’ll enjoy my camping videos. The White River Monster video has a homemade MRE but most of them just have different types of camp cooking.

[@Plasmastorm73_n5evv]

So that "Heat Intensifier" Works like a rocket stove by concentrating the heat into a smaller area?

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Exactly. Still not that level of power, of course, but much better than just the can.

[@leefottler4744]

One more towards your goal ! Very cool video. Keep it up, like your style ! 👍

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you so much!

[@MarkHooten]

I really enjoy your videos, and I figured out the primary appeal - you describe any contents (food, drinks, snacks) like a sommelier. Oh, and the beard, definitely the beard. 🙂

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you so much, Mark. Your support is greatly appreciated.

[@backdraft916]

I really like the plain BRCC instant. Always carried a couple packs in my fire gear. Poured into a water bottle, it was a welcome change of pace from plain water, plus a caffeine boost.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Might need to try that one. Maybe it will redeem the Vanilla Bomb

[@WhatAndyDoes]

Love how you take a veggie dish....and add meat. My kind of vegetarian option.

[@carlh-thehermitwithwi-fi679]

veggies are a garnish, not a main dish. I only eat the food my food eats.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Gotta correct the universe sometimes 😂

[@danpost4755]

I tried the pulled pork a while back and was pleasantly surprised. I agree with your comments about it, though.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

It really was surprisingly better than expected.

[@tonybalz2726]

I'm retired Army and have NEVER found a "delicious" MRE. I liked the C-rats better than MRE. I never found an MRE that I ate the entire contents. Most prep food has cheese as a base, and I hate cheese. I would love to see an MRE with plain beef, mashed potatoes and gravy, and chocolate milk.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Yeah, I wouldn’t hate that 😀

[@Delatta1961]

I agree. C-Rats were much better. They had some individual flavors, but after the third meal the MREs tasted the same. After a while, they’d shoot through me too. Also, spending funds on Vegetarian or Kosher MREs is ridiculous. I found in combat zones eating high proteins and fats was key to keeping my energy up. Just my thoughts

[@2024WhatNow]

Retired Army here as well with multiple deployments. MREs were not designed to be "Delicious", albeit, taste is relative. There were 24 menus (12 in Case A and 12 in case B) not that you really had much of a choice of what you got; you usually ate what they gave you. If you were lucky, you could trade with someone. Some meals were downright nasty.

[@gpilsitz1783]

Pork patties! Beans and weiners, all good. Heated up by laying them on a 463L pallet 10 min.

[@waynewatts8736]

😮i agree I spent six years in the Army and some was crap.

[@nobodysbusinesswhocares]

My husband loves the bitter dark coffees. The ones that just smell horrible. I worry about him sometimes hahaha I'll have to add some of the instant to our preps. I'm glad you've found a niche with MREs. I haven't been here long, but I've watched the subscriber numbers climb since I joined! Looking forward to more trip videos!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you! I’m not really sure how this happened but I’ll take it. We will see where it goes.

[@donnatelliunderwood2592]

maybe next week you could try to make an mre from items from an asian grocery market, or oriental market.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I might just do that soon.

[@scottthejeepguy7499]

I really like these MRE ideas, thanks again.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

You’re welcome. So glad you’re enjoying these.

[@paulhearn9842]

Wife and I love the pulled pork. One thing I was told about flavored coffee, you should add a little sugar to make the flavors "pop". Also, the pulled pork goes great with the black bean and rice pack from dollar tree.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I think this one just had too much of the flavor and it went the wrong way.

[@1974heathinn]

Black Rifle Coffee, and Taster’s Choice has coffee pouches. Basically a flat tea bag filled with coffee that steeps instead of being instant. I like them for camping. Today my coffee maker broke, so I was using them to get my coffee… unfortunately the vanilla bomb instant was one that didn’t really work on its own. It needed to be cut with something else. I made the Vanilla Bomb instant with a pouch of Tater’s choice, and it was good.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

That might work. Might need to try that with some of what I have left.

[@alanbierhoff6831]

I really enjoy your videos and look forward to every one Thank you for your hard work and gastrointestinal sacrifices 😉😆 Great Value and Equate brand Naysayers need to remember that Walmart doesn’t “make” anything but money! lol They do set guidelines and parameters with many manufacturers as far as portions and packaging. What really made this video great for me is that I’m not a fan of BRCC and you didn’t like that particular coffee

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I thing Great Value has some really good products. I'm not such a snob that I'd overlook it just because of the brand. They put a lot of time into making some really well thought out stuff.

[@fredfinger7092]

Hi DBA. I'm really enjoying these MRE videos. Another possibility for heating would be to use Esbit or Coghlan's solid fuel tablets. They make a mini stove for those, but the tablets might work with your Sterno stove. You can also get alcohol/spirit burners that can go in the same stoves, and that burn isopropyl alcohol or HEET (use the yellow one). Or you could make an alcohol burning "penny stove" out of a couple of soda cans (I've made more than my share of them). BTW I vote YES on the "Booster" item. If people don't want it, it can easily be left out. But if we DO want it, I for one appreciate your suggestions.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Great ideas. I have an Esbit stove waiting in the wings

[@RicG.]

The "meat-like" texture you mentioned in the Loma Linda Southwest Bowl, is due to "Textured Vegetable Protein (TVP). That's the second most prevalent ingredient in the bowl. TVP is a highly processed item that's derived from soybeans. Soybeans contain isoflaones, which are phytoestrogens with potent estrogenic activity. In other words, it increases levels of estrogen in both men and women. I personally avoid TVP and all soy products since I'm male.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Good information

[@drax99]

I never thought of making my own MREs. Friggin genius. Ive bought lots of long shelf life foods for emergencies, but never though to portion them out like this. Instant Sub. I'll be watching more of your channel. Thanks!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you! I’m glad you’re here!

[@SethCohn23]

Yes, except for the anti-soy crowd, the Loma Linda pouch meals are quite well made and worth considering. I'll have to try the pulled pork. The sodium levels of packaged shelf stable food tends to be high, cause salt preserves food. Also the wide variety of rice pouches available is amazing, I just got Mushroom Risotto pouches for example. Add a protein to any of those pouches, and you've got variety. I still think an Asian store will yield lots of interesting items for you to bundle into an MRE. Latest acquisitions include packets of instant matcha tea with cream/sugar, for example. More obscure is things like seaweed (rehydrate it in some water, swells up, add a packet of oil/vinegar dressing (and or asian soysauce/sesame oil/etc) for a 'salad' that is both shelf stable and nutritional.

[@SethCohn23]

"5-gram dried portion of certain green seaweeds and nori contains around 200% to 450% of the RDI for vitamin B12." In addition to be high protein, minerals, Vit D and other things you'd want in an MRE where compact matters and energy boosting of B12 would be useful. Roasted seaweed snacks are another option, too. Good rice topping or trail snack

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Our local international market has some great options. Always some interesting options there.

[@SethCohn23]

@@dadbudgetadventures do you have an HMart near you? They are Korean centric, and all over (there is a map on their website) and the quality is much better than Chinese. I avoid Chinese origin if possible as there are serious food quality/safety concerns.

[@Icebearhaswares]

@@SethCohn23absolutely. I’ve seen the videos of them using literal oil from sewers

[@1ambulator]

Excellent, content-filled video. What, where, and how are all explained. Your relaxed, informal presentation style is very friendly. This "MRE" is money-saving, easy to pack, filling, and has many possibilities for a couple or small family. Well done.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you so much. I appreciate the assessment!

[@ZTRAVLR]

ANOTHER GREAT VID, TY HAPPY EASTER TO U N YOURS....Z

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you. To you as well.

[@deborahdanhauer8525]

This is really interesting to me and I’ve never seen this approach before. I’m going to hang around and check this out! New subscriber.🤗❤️🐝

[@dadbudgetadventures]

So glad you’re here!

[@deborahdanhauer8525]

@@dadbudgetadventures 🤗👍

[@gud2go50]

I am so glad you are doing this series of videos on budget friendly MRE’s! With the cost of freeze dried camping meals being totally ridiculous, I prefer to make my own anyway! The time and effort you have put into getting these together is much appreciated. I never thought of this until I watched your video here, but pulled pork and Uncle Bens rice sounds wonderful to me.😊

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you! I’m glad you’re finding inspiration here!

[@MrMarco7259]

I'm from Florida. I'm glad I ran across your video. It's time to get ready for hurricane season, and these look like great options! Thanks for the video!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

That’s a perfect application. Best of luck to you and yours entering this rough season.

[@Gumby1978]

I enjoyed the Sterno add on. Great video

[@dadbudgetadventures]

That thing is super cool. Hate that they don’t make them anymore.

[@WayneTheSeine]

Nice little find. Rich coffee, yea, bitter coffee, no. I am not sure that I have ever noticed the Kerr's brand. I will have to keep an eye open for them. You peaked my interest and quickly went to the WalMart site and was surprised to see that Starkist now have some interesting tuna pouch flavors, such as, BBQ, bacon ranch, hickory smoked, jalapeno, and hot buffalo, thai chili and others. I will definitely check some of those out. Great video. I subbed.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you. I’m glad you found the channel!

[@dougbotimer8005]

Wife shops Walmart, but I usually don’t go with her. I’m going to have to now that you’ve enlightened me that they carry Loma Linda. Had a lot of their foods as a kid visiting my Adventist Grandparents. Karr plant, and outlet store, is just down the road from us; good products. And finally, do you have Menards down you way? Mine has some interesting Bridgeford shelf stable foods. P.S. I abhor flavored coffee, dark roast black is my taste. The BRCC regular instant is good. My favorite instant is Nescafé Classico.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

We don’t have Menards but there’s one where my folks live. Next time I’m there I will hit it up.

[@soyoucametosee7860]

I think the booster item should be a choice of the person making the MRE. Some folks may not want or need it. I really like these MRE things. It get people thinking about the great What If.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

That is exactly what I’m going for! Thanks for getting that!

[@gpilsitz1783]

They become "trade" items.

[@lindah6954]

My favorite is macaroni and cheese with no bean's chili. I make it every camping trip.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Yum. Perfect camp food.

[@PlayaSinNombre]

You can find a Sterno stove at some Walmarts in the camping area. I think it was from Coghlan’s.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Sometimes at small neighborhood hardware stores too.

[@hallard069]

I really look forward to these videos for ideas on ways to make alternative emergency/hiking meals. Question though, Do you take in account total calories of at least a certain amount when putting these together because I see that you point out protein amounts in many of your videos.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I always list calories, protein, and sodium for the full meal but I don’t designed them around those counts. These aren’t meant to be copied as a balanced plan. I’m just showing the various items I find along the way in a meal that makes sense.

[@kennethgardner3090]

For the most part, I am not a fan of instant coffee. But add a packet of hot chocolate, and wow it is good.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Absolutely. That’s a great solution for bad coffee

[@db6283]

Had the pulled pork. It was ok. Have not tried the sw entre, but will. I have also put together some of the mres. Thanks for the videos

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thanks for watching!

[@patriciacooke886]

I am so thankful to have found your videos, you do a fabulous job opening our eyes. Many blessings

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I’m glad you’re here as well! Thank you.

[@stephenrrose]

This is the first video of yours that I have seen. It won't be the last! New Subscriber and thank you for sharing with us these idea's! Looking forward to your other videos!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you so much. I’m glad you’re here!

[@pamhutzell8268]

I am carnivore too, but I liked that you might give ideas. Thank you!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

You’re welcome. Thanks for watching!

[@behindthespotlight7983]

14:17 when there’s neither daily food deliveries nor currency peoples food preferences/ prejudices will be on 3-2-1 life support

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Exactly. At some point you have to accept that options are only as good as you allowed for before the disaster struck.

[@HummerGirl88]

As someone who has celiac disease, I eat a lot of the Kind bars, the salted caramel one is my favorite. Also, I love the Quest peanut butter protein cookie.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I’m finding more and more gluten free options that don’t taste like cardboard

[@Robert_Sparkman_06]

Can you describe how you make your MRE packages for those who would like to do something similar? I am talking about the bag. Are those available commercially, and do you use some type of vacuum sealer? Do you sell the MREs somewhere after assembling them, or are they basically just for your use? Thanks.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

So the bags (listed in the description box) are Mylar food storage bags but you don’t have to use them. I just do it for the video. You can use a gallon ziplock bag to save money. You can seal them if you want but I don’t unless I’m wanting to compress the contents a little. I do not sell them, these are for my use and for the videos. I may do a preparation video soon to show the process though.

[@Robert_Sparkman_07]

@@dadbudgetadventures Thanks. I'm collecting lists on Amazon and Walmart Grocery as I watch your episodes. I doubt if I'll bag mine but it's handy to know which products are relatively shelf stable to keep around.

[@scenicdriveways6708]

Good morning and Happy Easter to you and your family DBA, Another great video, I really enjoyed it. Looking forward to seeing what you and your wife put together for an MRE. Have a great week. JT Barren County, KY

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you and happy Easter to you as well. Hopefully the couples video will be coming soon!

[@henrybonnett]

Wow, I am very glad I found this ! Thank you !!! Cool !

[@dadbudgetadventures]

You’re welcome! I’m glad you’re here

[@dondickerson9978]

About 3 months ago, the closest Wal-Mart to I stopped in just to check the clearance aisle. They had 12 of the small butane and propane cans on sell for $2.50 each. I bought all of then. I picked up 2 of the stoves the fit on the and wind screens for them. 2 weeks later I stopped and four 2 of the full size 2 burner propane stove tops marked down to $35 each. I got both of them and the propane to power them. You just never know what you will find. A great video, keep them coming.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I had a video posted a couple years back about shopping clearance at Walmart. I found a Mr. Heater Buddy marked down to $37 and when I got to the register it rang up at $6. Lately, however, my local stores have lost touch with what “Clearance” means.

[@jodimiller7931]

Thanks for another video with the Sterno stove, the heat intensifier was a cool item. Have you tried Aldi to make an MRE? The pulled pork and southwest bowl is an interesting combo, will have to try that out.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Been trying Aldi for a while. Eventually I will find enough to make it happen

[@Kbowen89]

Just found this and cannot wait to watch more, thanks for being so informative, normally I just hear, it's good or it's bad with know real information.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you. I fell like that’s what keeps my audience here.

[@donbrown599]

This is my first time at your video and I love it, you do a fantastic job. I will be a new follower and subscriber. I was disabled during Vietnam war so we don't go camping anymore but you are very entertaining and I will be following you. I remember C rations and you have become a ready to eat gourmet. Thanks

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you so much! Hope you catch the new episode with my homemade C-Rat!

[@nolanhines7251]

I really like these videos because making homemade MREs was an idea I had years ago and I think it's a cool idea

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Awesome! Hope it still seems cool watching someone make them

[@45CaliberCure]

Just ran across your channel. I have not been able to really enjoy any other channels of this sort other than SteveMRE1980 up until this point. Looking forward to binging. Thank you for the great video and andjunct to military MRE-based content.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

You’re quite welcome. I’m glad you’re here!

[@robertboothby2069]

Coffee has a heat range that tastes the best. I prefer black coffee, steaming hot and as it cools it becomes bitter. Yes, I am a coffee nut...

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I love me some good coffee. My preference is definitely brewing it fresh.

[@Dies1r4e]

Thanks man, I honestly never thought about packing my own MRE like that, I love this idea

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Cool! I love inspiring new ideas!

[@HerbertTOutdoors]

Just came across your channel and said to myself, about time someone did these kinds of videos. Can’t wait to see more.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you so much!

[@BoxTruckVagabond]

First time watcher, new subscriber. Very thorough and informative. This was the clincher!! LOL "Sunshine on a cloudy day, right there" P.S. Folgers makes packets like the one you had and they are pretty good. Not bitter.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you so much. I’m glad you’re here!

[@MajinMattPlays]

First time you've been recommended to me, and so glad you were. Have a new channel to watch every video in the catalogue of it seems.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thanks! I’m glad you’re here!