Menu Planning
Even in easy terrain, tramping
is hard work which requires lots of energy. If you
have a heavy pack or the weather is cold, wet and windy,
you'll need even more energy.
You'll need about 3000-4000
calories each day if you are involved in vigorous activity.
Proteins are quickly digested
and are important for the repair of muscles and tissues.
Sources of proteins include meat, cheese, eggs and
milk powder.
Fats have the highest energy
content per gram and are slowly digested. Sources of
fat include butter, bacon, cheese, salami, chocolate
and full cream milk powder.
Carbohydrates are quickly
digested and provide energy quickly. Foods rich in
carbohydrates include sugar, honey, bread, muesli,
oatmeal, rice, macaroni, spaghetti, sweets and dried
fruits.
Generally you should eat
proteins, fats and carbohydrates in the proportion
of 1:1:4. But if you are more active and the weather
is cold and wet, then you should eat more fats, proportions
approaching 1:2:3.
Food also has considerable
emotional and psychological effects. When planning
food for others, consider their likes and dislikes.
Variety and quantity may become important on extended
trips and it might be worth carrying some fresh fruit
for a treat after days on dehydrated food, or to celebrate
reaching the top of a mountain.
COOKING HINTS
Keep the billy lid on - it
saves time and fuel, and keeps ash, smoke and insects
out of the food.
When pouring from a billy,
let the contents run out over one side where the handle
is attached. It's easier to control.
You can tell a billy is boiling
by holding a spoon or stick against the side - the
vibrations are much more vigorous.
CLEANING UP
Cleaning a burnt saucepan
or porridge pot at home when there's plenty of hot,
soapy water and a decent scourer may not be enjoyable,
but coping in the bush is less pleasant.
Some people carry a pot scourer
and a small bottle of biodegradable detergent. Others
swear by river gravel.
Drain suds into soft soil
to save polluting streams and lakes.
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