Survival Recipe: How to Make Hardtack Biscuits for Long-Lasting Hunger Relief

Survival Recipe: How to Make Hardtack Biscuits for Long-Lasting Hunger Relief
19th Century civil war hardtack, as reproduced faithfully by a civil war re-enactor. To the left, army hard tack. To the right, Navy hard tack. Both would never be seen just laying around. They would either be in a barrel, a haversack, or human hand.

Hardtack biscuits, also known as ship biscuits or pilot bread, have been used as a survival food for centuries. They were a staple amongst maritime travelers and soldiers during wars. With just flour, water, and salt, you can create an enduring food source that can last for years if stored correctly.

Hardtack Biscuits

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups of flour
  • 1.5 cups of water
  • 2 teaspoons of salt

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 375°F.

In a bowl, mix the flour and salt until well-combined.

Gradually add water to the mixture, stirring constantly, until the dough is firm.

Lightly dust a flat surface with flour and place the dough on it. Knead the dough until it is smooth.

Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/2 inch.

Cut the dough into small squares, around 3 inches in size.

Poke several holes into each square using a fork, to help the air enter.

Place the dough squares onto a baking sheet and bake for around 30 minutes or until the hardtack biscuits are rock-hard.

Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the biscuits cool down completely.

Storage and Shelf Life

Store the hardtack biscuits in an airtight container or a vacuum-sealed bag for future use. When stored properly in an airtight container, hardtack biscuits can last for months and even up to years due to their low moisture content. In fact, hardtack biscuits were famously used as a staple food by soldiers during wars because of their long shelf life. However, it’s important to note that the quality and taste of the biscuits may deteriorate over time, so it’s recommended to consume them within 6-12 months for best results.

One of the best things about hardtack biscuits is their versatility. You can eat them as they are, or crumble them up and add them to soups or stews to thicken them up. They can also be dunked in hot beverages such as tea or coffee to soften them up.

Hardtack biscuits are a simple yet effective survival food that can provide much-needed relief during times of hunger, as they provide essential carbohydrates that can keep you going for long periods of time. With just three ingredients and a little bit of effort, you can create a long-lasting food source that can last for years if stored properly. This recipe is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, preppers, and anyone looking to be self-reliant during an emergency.

>> How to Prepare an Easy Biscuit Recipe without Shortening

The Author:

Pioneerthinking.com – Ingredients for a Simple Life.

Photo. D. Farr

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