Delicious Dishes for the Adventurous Veggie or Vegan
Posted by Andy Neil on Dec 17, 2024
At Ultralight Outdoor Gear, we take pride in delivering the most accurate and detailed information about the gear we offer. We don’t just list specs—we weigh every product ourselves so you know precisely what you’re carrying. But we don’t stop there. To ensure you’re trail-ready, we also taste-test every dehydrated meal we sell.
Over the past year, our team has meticulously tested and rated each meal, scoring them out of 10 based on taste, texture, and hydration performance. Along the way, we’ve uncovered which meals need more (or less) water, which ones take extra time to hydrate, and, importantly, which ones we’re not so keen on. With this hard-earned insight, we’ve created a definitive guide to our favourite dehydrated meals across various categories, making choosing the perfect trail food easier.
If you’ve never tried dehydrated meals, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. These lightweight, compact options are the ultimate in trail cuisine, crafted to fuel your adventure without weighing you down. Packed with essential calories, protein, and carbohydrates, they’re ideal for multiday backpacking trips. Preparation couldn’t be more straightforward—just add water—and the best part? No dishes to wash afterwards.
So, whether you’re a devoted carnivore, a vegetarian explorer, or simply on the hunt for the best trail breakfasts and desserts, dive into our guide to find out which meals shined in our taste tests. Your next adventure starts here!
10. Blå Band Macaroni Pomodoro (Vegetarian)
Taste Test Score: 8/10
This Italian-inspired dish combines macaroni with a smooth tomato-based sauce infused with subtle notes of chilli and curry. The sauce clings well to the pasta, ensuring every mouthful has a rich, cohesive bite. Adding a little extra salt elevates the flavour, but its hearty, familiar taste makes it a solid choice for an evening meal.
9. Expedition Foods Macaroni Cheese (Vegetarian)
Taste Test Score: 8/10
Rich with a blend of Red Leicester, Cheddar, and Mozzarella cheeses, this mac and cheese delivers on indulgence. The macaroni maintains its shape and texture, enveloped in a velvety sauce that satisfies after a long day. It’s a filling and comforting option for anyone craving a classic, cheesy dish.
(Available in Single Serving, Double Serving and High Energy Serving)
8. Blå Band Pasta with Cheese & Broccoli (Vegetarian)
Taste Test Score: 8/10
A comforting mix of creamy cheese sauce, broccoli, and a medley of vegetables makes this pasta dish a cold-weather favourite. The blend of textures and flavours creates a satisfying meal, though it leans toward milder seasoning. Its easy preparation and hearty nature make it a dependable vegetarian choice.
7. LYO Farfalle with Gorgonzola & Spinach Sauce (Vegetarian)
Taste Test Score: 8/10
This vegetarian dish combines tender farfalle pasta with a rich, creamy Gorgonzola and spinach sauce. Almonds add a subtle nuttiness, while perfectly hydrated pasta ensures a satisfying texture. The bold and comforting flavours make it feel like a home-cooked meal, perfect for those seeking gourmet options on their adventures.
(Available in Regular Serving and Big Pack)
6. Radix Nutrition Ultra Turkish Falafel Meal (Vegetarian)
Taste Test Score: 9/10
This falafel dish combines aromatic spices with hearty rice, seeds, and vegetables. The crunchy sunflower and pumpkin seeds complement soft falafel pieces, creating a satisfying texture. The warm spices and fragrant undertones deliver a rich, well-balanced flavour, making it a standout option for hearty, plant-based trail meals.
(Available in Original 600kcal Serving and Ultra 800kcal Serving)
5. Real Turmat Couscous with Lentils and Spinach (Vegetarian)
Taste Test Score: 9/10
Couscous and lentils form a hearty base in this Mediterranean-inspired vegetarian meal. Carrots, spinach, and green beans add texture and nutrients, while mild seasoning combines the flavours. This meal hydrates well, delivering a balanced and satisfying choice.
(Available in Regular Serving and Field Meal Serving)
4. Radix Nutrition Ultra Peri Peri Meal (Vegetarian)
Taste Test Score: 9/10
Peri Peri spice infuses this dish with bold, smoky heat, complemented by crunchy seeds, nuts, and wholesome grains. The smoked paprika and chilli deliver a flavourful kick, while hints of lemon and tomato add balance. This vibrant meal is ideal for spice lovers craving a hearty, flavoursome dish.
(Available in Original 600kcal Serving and Ultra 800kcal Serving)
3. Real Turmat Asian Curry (Vegan)
Taste Test Score: 9/10
This vegan curry combines creamy coconut milk with rice, beans, and vegetables like aubergine and peppers. Hints of ginger and lime brighten the bold, aromatic spices, creating a balanced and satisfying flavour. Perfectly rehydrated textures and a touch of heat make this curry a delicious and nourishing choice for the trail.
2. Firepot Porcini Mushroom Risotto (Vegan)
Taste Test Score: 9/10
This risotto delivers earthy mushroom flavours from porcini and chestnut mushrooms, balanced with parsley and lemon. The risotto rice rehydrates to creamy perfection, offering authentic texture and taste. Even mushroom sceptics will be pleasantly surprised by this hearty, gourmet meal.
(Available in Regular Serving and XL Serving)
1. Real Turmat Squash and Sweetcorn Casserole (Vegan)
Taste Test Score: 9/10
This vegan dish pairs squash, sweetcorn, and lentils with a creamy coconut milk base enhanced with warming spices. The rice and chickpeas create a satisfying texture, while veggies and seasoning add depth. It hydrates well, delivering a flavourful, hearty meal for lightweight adventures. A hint of spice and a smooth consistency makes it a top choice for vegans, vegetarians, and anyone who simply appreciates good, hearty grub.
Check out some of our related articles on dehydrated food below!
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Andy Neil |
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Andy has been a keen long-distance hiker and wild camping enthusiast since he completed the Cleveland Way in 2015. Since then, he has walked thousands of trail miles all over the UK and is an active member of the Wild Camping UK community, being an admin of the largest wild camping community on Facebook. He strongly advocates for responsible wild camping and believes it is important to leave no trace when camping in the wilderness. He joined the UOG team in 2021 and works as a website developer and content creator. |
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If you’ve never tried dehydrated meals, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. These lightweight, compact options are the ultimate in trail cuisine, crafted to fuel your adventure without weighing you down. Packed with essential calories, protein, and carbohydrates, they’re ideal for multiday backpacking trips. Preparation couldn’t be more straightforward—just add water—and the best part? No dishes to wash afterwards.