🍜 The Surprise of Cooking Off-Grid
Have you ever had an “aha!” moment that completely changes your routine? I certainly did after spending over a year living off the grid. It dawned on me that I could make dinner in a new way, using a method I had overlooked: cooking with a crock pot. It’s funny to think that something so simple had escaped my mind for so long. Today, I want to share how I transformed my basic ramen into a delicious tropical delight inside my trailer without shore power, propane, or magic!
💧 Setting Up the Crock Pot
Just picture it: I’m at my teardrop trailer, equipped with a hot plate for chilly evenings. But I also have this crock pot lurking in my limited supplies. Until now, it hasn’t occurred to me that it could be plugged in using my battery packs, which I primarily use for the internet and charging devices. To my surprise, the crock pot only requires 75 watts, allowing me to whip up a tasty meal with minimal fuss.
🌱 Ingredients with a Twist
As I plugged in the crock pot, I gathered my supplies. I always keep bags of dried vegetables on hand. They’re perfect for adding nutrients to meals like ramen or spaghetti sauce. I tossed a quarter cup of veggies and about two cups of water. Then, feeling adventurous, I added some pineapple juice for a surprising, sweet twist. But wait, there’s more! I couldn’t resist adding a bit of dried coconut flakes. Who can say no to coconut?
⏲️ The Waiting Game
Leaving my concoction to cook, I decided to wait about an hour and a half. The anticipation grew as I envisioned the flavors mingling. I knew I would soon be rewarded with a ramen unlike any other—one that shunned the ordinary and embraced creativity.
🔥 The Moment of Truth
After the wait, I felt the heat radiating as I lifted the lid to check on my dish. The sight of beautifully rehydrated vegetables was inviting. I had to break up the noodles to ensure they fit in the crockpot. The aroma filled the air, and I knew I was onto something good. The textures looked promising too—nice and chunky, perfect for savoring every mouthful.
🍍 Flavor Explosion
What sealed the deal was when I tasted the final creation. The combination of pineapple juice, lime juice, and coconut added a tropical flair that elevated the humble ramen to gourmet status. It was rich, savory, and just the right amount of sweet. Sometimes, I think simple ingredients can create the most delightful surprises.
🍺 The Perfect Pairing
As a nice touch, I finished the meal with a can of Big Blue Van Blueberry Wheat, a stunning beer from the College Street Brewhouse in Lake Havasu, Arizona. The beer complemented my tropical ramen beautifully, turning a simple dinner into a culinary experience.
This cooking adventure reminded me of the joys of experimenting in the kitchen and the rewards of easy-to-make meals when you’re living off-grid. Here’s to the small pleasures in life and the delicious ways we can enjoy them—one bowl of ramen at a time!