Let’s Dive into ReadyWise Backcountry Wild Rice Risotto
In the world of backcountry adventures, where every ounce counts and convenience is king, finding reliable and palatable sustenance can be a real challenge. Enter the ReadyWise Backcountry Wild Rice Risotto, a pre-packaged meal promising both nutrition and ease of preparation for the discerning outdoor enthusiast. Manufactured by ReadyWise, this risotto aims to deliver a comforting and flavorful meal with minimal fuss, boasting a long shelf life and simple preparation: just add water. I’m an outdoor gear specialist who has seen and tasted it all.
My quest for dependable, lightweight, and tasty backcountry food is ongoing. Tired of bland, overly-processed meals that leave me feeling unsatisfied, I sought something that offered a better balance of taste, nutrition, and portability for my extended treks.
Unboxing the ReadyWise Backcountry Wild Rice Risotto, I was immediately drawn to the compact, resealable pouch. It felt lightweight and well-sealed, instilling confidence that it could withstand the rigors of the trail. The promise of a 15-year shelf life was also a significant selling point, suggesting a product designed for long-term preparedness.
Compared to other dehydrated meals I’ve used, such as Mountain House meals and Backpackers Pantry options, the ReadyWise Backcountry Wild Rice Risotto stood out due to its wild rice base and vegetable inclusion. I’ve tried similar products with rice, but none quite seemed to offer the convenience and hearty texture promised by this one. I chose this specifically for the perceived taste improvement.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. While the packaging looked promising, the true test would be in the taste and texture. I was hoping for a meal that would be both satisfying after a long day of hiking and easy to prepare in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting ReadyWise Backcountry Wild Rice Risotto to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the ReadyWise Backcountry Wild Rice Risotto during a three-day solo backpacking trip in the remote San Juan Mountains of Colorado. Setting up camp after a demanding eight-mile hike, I was eager to try the risotto. I prepared it directly in the pouch, as instructed, adding the specified amount of boiling water and sealing it up for the recommended time.
The weather was variable, with sunshine in the afternoon giving way to chilly evening temperatures. The risotto rehydrated well despite the cold. It provided a warm, comforting meal when I needed it most. The ease of preparation was a definite plus in the fading light.
Preparing the meal was surprisingly simple. There was no complicated cooking process. I only had to add water and wait. After waiting, I noticed an even consistency.
Initially, the flavor was a bit bland. I added some extra salt and pepper. However, the texture of the wild rice was surprisingly good, with a pleasant chewiness that made it more satisfying than other instant rice meals I’ve had.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and multiple backcountry trips, the ReadyWise Backcountry Wild Rice Risotto has proven to be a reliable option for quick and easy meals. The pouches have held up well in my pack, showing no signs of leaks or damage.
After several rehydrations, I did not notice any change to flavor or texture. The material is durable. I experienced no degradation after extended use.
Cleaning the pouch after eating is straightforward, especially if you eat directly from it as intended. A quick rinse with water is usually sufficient.
Compared to my previous go-to meals, the ReadyWise Backcountry Wild Rice Risotto holds its own. I appreciate the addition of vegetables. They offer a more complete and nutritious meal option. However, it needs some spices to add more flavor.
Breaking Down the Features of ReadyWise Backcountry Wild Rice Risotto
Specifications
The ReadyWise Backcountry Wild Rice Risotto offers a set of specifications geared towards convenient backcountry use.
- Manufacturer: ReadyWise.
- Package Type: Box containing 6 individual pouches.
- Quantity: 6 pouches per box.
- Serving Size: 189 g per pouch (2.5 servings).
- Food Type: Entree.
- Shelf Life: Extended, up to 15 years.
- Last Chance: Yes.
These specifications make the risotto ideal for emergency preparedness. The ease of storage is great for lightweight backpacking. The 15-year shelf life offers an additional benefit.
Performance & Functionality
The ReadyWise Backcountry Wild Rice Risotto delivers on its promise of providing a quick and convenient meal in the backcountry.
It rehydrates well. The risotto provides a satisfying, warm meal with minimal effort. The flavor, while somewhat bland on its own, can be easily enhanced with added spices.
The main strength is its simplicity and portability. The need for added seasoning is a minor weakness. The texture of the wild rice is a definite improvement over other instant rice meals.
The risotto mostly meets expectations. It is easy to prepare and a good base for a meal. It does need a bit of doctoring to reach its full potential.
Design & Ergonomics
The pouch design is practical and functional.
The lightweight pouch is easy to pack. It is durable enough to withstand the rigors of backpacking. The resealable closure is a nice touch, allowing you to save leftovers or rehydrate the meal in stages.
The packaging is user-friendly, with clear instructions and easy-to-read measurements for water addition. It requires minimal effort to prepare.
Durability & Maintenance
With a 15-year shelf life, the ReadyWise Backcountry Wild Rice Risotto is designed for long-term storage and use.
The packaging appears durable. It is able to withstand the elements. Maintenance is minimal. There is no cleaning required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ReadyWise Backcountry Wild Rice Risotto does not come with any specific accessories.
Customization is primarily limited to adding spices and flavor enhancers. Salt, pepper, garlic powder, or dried herbs can enhance the flavor profile.
The risotto can be paired with other ingredients. Add pre-cooked meats, dried vegetables, or cheese. However, no specific brands are recommended.
Pros and Cons of ReadyWise Backcountry Wild Rice Risotto
Pros
- Easy to Prepare: Just add water and wait; ideal for quick meals on the trail.
- Lightweight & Portable: Perfect for backpacking and situations where weight is a concern.
- Long Shelf Life: Boasts a 15-year shelf life, making it great for emergency preparedness.
- Resealable Pouch: Allows for convenient eating directly from the pouch and saving leftovers.
- Good Texture: The wild rice offers a more satisfying texture than many other instant rice meals.
Cons
- Bland Flavor: Requires additional seasoning to enhance the taste.
- Limited Customization: Fewer options for adding ingredients compared to cooking from scratch.
Who Should Buy ReadyWise Backcountry Wild Rice Risotto?
The ReadyWise Backcountry Wild Rice Risotto is perfect for backpackers, hikers, and campers who prioritize lightweight and easy-to-prepare meals. It’s also ideal for those building an emergency food supply.
Those seeking gourmet-level flavor or who prefer cooking from scratch should skip this product.
Must-have accessories or modifications include a reliable source of boiling water and a selection of spices or flavor enhancers to customize the taste.
Conclusion on ReadyWise Backcountry Wild Rice Risotto
The ReadyWise Backcountry Wild Rice Risotto offers a convenient and reliable option for backcountry meals and emergency preparedness. While it may require some added seasoning to reach its full flavor potential, its ease of preparation, lightweight design, and long shelf life make it a worthwhile addition to any outdoor adventurer’s pack.
At $43.69 for a box of six pouches, the price is reasonable for the convenience and long-term storage benefits. I would recommend it to those seeking a no-fuss meal option for their outdoor adventures.
The ReadyWise Backcountry Wild Rice Risotto is a solid choice for those who want a reliable and easy meal while enjoying the great outdoors. It is worth a try.