It can be challenging to to make a meal out of what you happen to have in the cupboard. In the advice on self-preparedness, you are recommended to store many different items such as crispbread, canned food, beans and rice - but what can you actually make with it?
Also read: Food you should have in the house in case of a crisis
Meals without heat and water
If you suddenly lose access to heat and water, it's smart to have a plan for what you can eat. Here are a few suggestions:
Crispbread with toppings
This is easy to store and easy to prepare. Crispbread with mackerel in tomato, liver pate, jam or other long-lasting toppings is a good choice that keeps you full. It requires neither heat nor water, and can be eaten straight out of the box.
Lentils and bean salad
A nutritious salad that can be varied according to taste and what you have available of fresh and stored ingredients. Mix canned cooked lentils, beans, or chickpeas with canned ham or tuna, sun-dried tomatoes, red onions, and dried herbs. Cashews and capers add extra flavor. If you have bottled olive oil, honey, mustard and lemon, you can make a simple dressing.
Meals with heat and water
If you have stored water and have access to a grill or cooking appliance, you have more options. Make sure you have enough fuel (gas/coal/spirits) and that you have food options that can be prepared on the equipment you have. Here are some suggestions:
Oatmeal with add-ins
Oatmeal has few ingredients, can be prepared without using much fuel, and allows you to easily vary with different flavors. For example, one serving can be served with apple jam and cinnamon or nuts and raisins.
Stew with flatbread and lingonberry jam
Canned stew is a perfect solution when you need a hot meal quickly. Heat the stew in a saucepan on the stove and serve with flatbread and lingonberry jam for a traditional and filling dinner.
Taco Casserole
If you miss the Friday taco, you can make a simple taco casserole with long-lasting items. With ingredients such as chickpeas, taco seasoning, onions, tomato paste, corn, canned tomatoes, rice and water, you can prepare a tasty stew.
Whatever you plan to cook, it's a good idea to regularly test that your equipment is working properly and that you have enough fuel. The better prepared you are, the easier it will be to deal with a crisis.