Let’s face it – stepping out into the wilderness with a pack full of meat-based dehydrated meals is something we adventurers don’t want to think about too deeply. Weighed down by the carbon footprint of a flight across the world, these meals make a mockery of any explorer with an ounce of environmental conscience. Using the excuse that palatable vegetarian meals are as rare as finding a spotted kiwi out in the bush is now, like kiwi-spotting, as outdated as hob-nailed boots.
Christchurch-based FurtherFaster stocks the Firepot range of both meat-based and vegetarian options. I knew anything recommended by Further Faster would have been researched and tested by this team of experienced outdoor enthusiasts. I was lured by the vegetarian options.
Firepot pride themselves on minimising the carbon footprint of their meals, from sourcing ingredients and meal preparation to the customised dehydration equipment and eventual distribution. Vegetarian choices include a green gumbo, orzo Bolognese, mac-and-greens, and posh baked beans, all of which would satisfy even the most carnivorous of us. However, for me, the porcini mushroom risotto was the standout – creamy with slices of actual porcini mushroom – a classy meal up there with any meat-based risotto I have enjoyed.
There is no doubt Firepot will be in my pack for the next overnight trip.
