Introduction
In an emergency, having a stash of treats can be a morale booster, provide quick energy, and even aid in bartering. These treats should be easy to store, require minimal preparation, and offer a variety of flavors and textures. Here are six survival-friendly treat ideas that you can easily prepare and store for long-term use.
Trail Mix
Trail mix is a versatile snack that combines nuts, dried fruit, pretzels, and chocolate. This mix provides a calorie-dense snack with a shelf life of 6-12 months. To make your own trail mix, follow these steps:
- Gather your ingredients: 1 cup of mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, cashews, and peanuts), 1 cup of dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, and apricots), 1 cup of pretzels, and 1/2 cup of chocolate chips.
- Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl.
- Transfer the mix to airtight containers or zip-top bags.
- Store in a cool, dry place.
Chocolate
Chocolate is another great treat to include in your emergency supplies. It can be stored in airtight containers and lasts 2-4 months at room temperature or up to 3 years in the freezer. To ensure your chocolate lasts as long as possible, follow these tips:
- Purchase chocolate in bulk and break it into smaller pieces for easier storage.
- Store chocolate in airtight containers or zip-top bags.
- Keep chocolate away from heat and moisture.
- For longer storage, consider freezing chocolate. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer bag.
Energy Bites
Energy bites are a no-bake treat that can be made with just a few ingredients. They are perfect for quick energy boosts and can be stored for up to a week at room temperature or up to three months in the freezer. Here’s how to make them:
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/2 cup peanut butter
– 1/2 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or chopped dried apricots)
Instructions:
1. Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl.
2. Use a spoon to form the mixture into small balls.
3. Place the energy bites on a plate lined with parchment paper.
4. Store in an airtight container or zip-top bag.
Rice Pudding
Rice pudding is a comforting treat that can be made with common pantry staples. It’s a great option for those who need a warm, filling snack. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked rice
– 1 cup powdered milk
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the rice and powdered milk with enough water to cover.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is tender.
3. Stir in the sugar, raisins, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
4. Cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the pudding thickens.
5. Serve warm or let it cool and store in an airtight container.
Honey Candies
Honey candies are a sweet treat that can be made with just two ingredients: honey and powdered milk. They can be stored for up to a year and can be shaped into various forms. Here’s how to make them:
Ingredients:
– 1 cup honey
– 1 cup powdered milk
Instructions:
1. In a saucepan, heat the honey over low heat until it reaches 110°C (230°F).
2. Remove from heat and stir in the powdered milk.
3. Pour the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Let it cool and harden.
5. Break the candy into small pieces.
6. For chocolate versions, add cocoa powder to the mixture before pouring it onto the baking sheet.
Fruit Leathers
Fruit leathers are a healthy and tasty treat that can be made with fresh or canned fruit. They can be stored for up to a year and are a great option for those who need a quick energy boost. Here’s how to make them:
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of pureed fruit (fresh or canned)
Instructions:
1. Puree the fruit in a blender or food processor.
2. Spread the puree evenly on a dehydrator tray or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Dehydrate the fruit leather at 135°F (57°C) for 6-12 hours or until it’s dry and leathery.
4. Once dry, remove from the dehydrator and let it cool.
5. Store the fruit leather in an airtight container or zip-top bag.
Conclusion
By preparing these treats in advance, you can ensure that you have a variety of tasty and nutritious options available during an emergency. These treats are easy to make, store, and prepare, making them a valuable addition to your emergency supplies.