Let’s Dive into ReadyWise Open Range Cheesy Potato Soup
The ReadyWise Open Range Cheesy Potato Soup promises a convenient and comforting meal solution for outdoor adventures. ReadyWise, a manufacturer known for its long-term food storage and emergency preparedness products, aims to deliver a palatable and easily prepared soup for on-the-go consumption. This review digs deep to see if this cheesy potato soup lives up to the promise.
I found myself constantly searching for lightweight, shelf-stable meal options for backcountry hiking and emergency kits. My goal was to find something that was both nutritious and easy to prepare, without sacrificing taste. Unboxing the ReadyWise Open Range Cheesy Potato Soup, the lightweight pouch immediately impressed me. It felt durable enough to withstand the rigors of a backpack, and the resealable feature seemed practical for portion control.
I’ve tried similar dehydrated soup mixes from Mountain House and Backpacker’s Pantry. While both are reputable brands, they often require more water or longer cook times, and can be pricier per serving. My first impression of the ReadyWise Open Range Cheesy Potato Soup was cautiously optimistic, hoping for a quick and tasty meal solution for my upcoming camping trip.
Real-World Testing: Putting ReadyWise Open Range Cheesy Potato Soup to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the ReadyWise Open Range Cheesy Potato Soup during a three-day backpacking trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The weather was a mix of sunshine and occasional light rain, creating somewhat humid conditions. Preparing the soup was incredibly simple: just add hot water to the pouch, stir, and wait.
The soup rehydrated quickly, even with slightly cooler water from my portable filter. The cheesy aroma filled the air, and the taste was surprisingly good, offering a comforting warmth against the cool mountain air. I did notice that it required a little extra stirring to fully dissolve some of the powdered ingredients at the bottom of the pouch.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of incorporating ReadyWise Open Range Cheesy Potato Soup into my hiking and camping routines, it has proven to be a reliable option. The pouches have held up well, showing no signs of damage or leakage inside my pack. Storing excess air out of the resealable pouches helps preserve the contents after opening.
The soup itself remains consistent in quality and taste across multiple uses. Cleaning up is minimal, as you can eat directly from the pouch, and there’s very little residue left behind. Compared to other dehydrated meals I’ve tried, the ReadyWise Open Range Cheesy Potato Soup offers a convenient and satisfying experience with minimal fuss, making it a valuable addition to my outdoor gear.
Breaking Down the Features of ReadyWise Open Range Cheesy Potato Soup
Specifications
- Manufacturer: ReadyWise. This is a key factor because ReadyWise has a long-standing reputation for shelf-stable emergency food.
- Package Type: Box containing 6 pouches. The box provides organized storage in your pantry or vehicle.
- Quantity: 6 pouches per box. This is a good quantity for several outings or family camping trips.
- Serving Size: 52 g (dry weight). This dry weight provides 2.5 servings per pouch, making it suitable for solo hikers or sharing.
- Food Type: Soup. It’s a comforting and familiar food that can provide warmth and sustenance in the outdoors.
- Shelf Life: Extended. Extended shelf life is crucial for emergency preparedness and infrequent outdoor trips.
These specifications are important because they highlight the soup’s portability, ease of preparation, and long-term storage capabilities, making it an ideal choice for both planned adventures and unexpected situations. The compact size and weight make it easy to carry in a backpack or emergency kit, while the extended shelf life ensures that it will be ready when you need it most.
Performance & Functionality
The ReadyWise Open Range Cheesy Potato Soup performs its job admirably by providing a quick, convenient, and reasonably tasty meal option. It rehydrates quickly with hot water, requiring minimal effort to prepare. The taste is generally pleasing, offering a comforting and familiar flavor that can be particularly satisfying after a long day of hiking or camping.
The soup’s main strength lies in its ease of use and portability. The resealable pouch is practical, allowing you to consume only what you need and save the rest for later. However, the soup could benefit from a slightly richer flavor profile and perhaps some added texture to enhance the overall eating experience.
Design & Ergonomics
The ReadyWise Open Range Cheesy Potato Soup‘s design prioritizes functionality and convenience. The lightweight pouch is easy to pack and carry, and the resealable feature is a welcome addition. The build quality appears to be adequate, with a durable pouch that can withstand some rough handling.
The design is user-friendly, with clear instructions printed on the pouch. There is virtually no learning curve involved in preparing and consuming the soup.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its simple composition and packaging, the ReadyWise Open Range Cheesy Potato Soup is expected to last for an extended period, thanks to its dehydration process and sealed pouch. The lack of moving parts or complex components ensures a high level of reliability. Maintenance is practically non-existent, as there is no need to clean or repair the soup itself.
Proper storage in a cool, dry place is essential to maximize its shelf life. The soup is designed for single-use consumption after rehydration.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ReadyWise Open Range Cheesy Potato Soup doesn’t come with any specific accessories, as it’s a self-contained meal solution. However, you can certainly customize the soup to your liking. Adding a pinch of salt, pepper, or some dried herbs can enhance the flavor.
Consider including some freeze-dried vegetables or cooked bacon bits for added texture and nutritional value. The product is compatible with any standard cooking pot or container you might use to rehydrate the soup, although eating directly from the pouch is the most convenient option.
Pros and Cons of ReadyWise Open Range Cheesy Potato Soup
Pros
- Ease of Preparation: Just add hot water and stir.
- Lightweight & Portable: Ideal for backpacking and camping.
- Long Shelf Life: Perfect for emergency preparedness kits.
- Resealable Pouch: Allows for portion control and prevents spillage.
- Comforting Taste: Provides a warm and familiar flavor.
Cons
- Flavor Can Be Bland: May require additional seasoning for some palates.
- Texture is Soft: Lacks the variety and chewiness of fresh ingredients.
Who Should Buy ReadyWise Open Range Cheesy Potato Soup?
The ReadyWise Open Range Cheesy Potato Soup is perfect for campers, hikers, backpackers, and preppers looking for a lightweight, easy-to-prepare, and shelf-stable meal option. It’s also suitable for individuals who need a quick and convenient lunch or dinner solution during busy days.
Those who prefer gourmet-quality meals with complex flavors and textures may find this soup lacking. It’s a functional and practical option, but not necessarily a culinary delight. A must-have accessory is a portable stove or heating source to heat the water.
Conclusion on ReadyWise Open Range Cheesy Potato Soup
The ReadyWise Open Range Cheesy Potato Soup is a solid choice for anyone needing a quick, easy, and portable meal. It’s a convenient option for outdoor adventures or emergency preparedness. While the flavor and texture could be enhanced, the soup’s practicality and ease of preparation make it a worthwhile addition to any pack or pantry.
At $21.88 for six pouches, the price is reasonable, considering the convenience and long shelf life. I would personally recommend this product to anyone seeking a reliable and fuss-free meal option for their outdoor excursions or emergency kits. Grab a box of ReadyWise Open Range Cheesy Potato Soup and be prepared for your next adventure!