Lightweight cooking Pot or Cup?

[Robo]

OK. I'm over thinking this............again

But planning is fun!

For our (Pat and I) next Camino we are doing a Hybrid.

1. The Madrid to Sahagun.
2. Sanabres from Ourense to SDC
3. Then Muxia Fisterra SDC.

As I write this I'm telling my self the answer is neither!
But..........

We may need to cook a couple of evening meals or breakfasts on the Routes 1 and 2 above when staying at Albergues.
I'm thinking of breakfast in Oseira for example. But there might be 2-3 more times.

So the question is, because I'm not carrying both.

Would you carry a very light (80g) titanium 600 ml pot. to use on a stove.
or
A similar size and weight 'cup', that could be used in a Microwave?

The question being of course, what is most frequently available?
A stove top or a microwave?

I'm more inclined to just make do with cold food.
Sardines and a bread roll are my go to DIY breakfast.

But 'madam' may require a boiled egg / instant noodles or something.......
Happy wife..........happy life.

Of course a Rice Cooker would be the obvious thing!
No. Not going there again..........

 

[Purky]

I'm a little weird about being able to make coffee while on the road. I sometimes think it has more to do about me feeling 'autonomous' (however illusionairy) then the coffee, to be honest. Anyway, so I carry a Jetboil stove, have to go through the trouble to buy a gas cannister when I have to fly to my destination and I have to carry coffee (+ some teabags) and a mug obviously.

But there is method to my weirdness. I can do boiled eggs or instant noodles whenever I feel like or I can go for freeze-dried foods or soup when I'm going bush. But the greatest upside is that I can sometimes offer fellow walkers a cup of joe or tea in the middle of nowhere and see their surprise and delight. Worth the weight, as far as I'm concerned.

 

[roving_rufus]

While not done the Madrid - but in Spain I normally carry a plastic jar shaped container as microwaves seem more common in many albergues than a cooker, plus it seals so it's great for leftovers! It also doubles as a mug!

In France and hiking at home I have taken a titanium pot with an alcohol stove - it has different benefits- but it's benefits comes from the stove

 

[J Willhaus]

I had a plain, no handles, microwavable cup (89 cents at Walmart) to heat water in the microwave. Added the small pan from an Asian Bazaar in Sarria for eggs, etc. for my student group in the barren Xunta kitchens. I also carried a spork. I saw a couple of guys who carried a 2-person paella pan clipped to the pack, which could be used as a skillet or for paella. They cooked thier own meals in this every night.

It is overkill, but I like to be prepared for those Xunta albergues in the middle of no where or where the only restaurant is closed the day I am there.

I always have a package of dry soup mix, some Baby Bell Cheese, a package of walnuts, instant coffee. At a store, if available, I would buy yogurt, eggs, and mandarin oranges for a breakfast the next morning.

 

[Kirkie]

And eggs can survive, once boiled, for a few days. So no need to boil every day. Well, i did that in 2013 and am still alive.

 

[Stephan the Painter]

I had a plain, no handles, microwavable cup (89 cents at Walmart) to heat water in the microwave.

I also had a very heavy-duty microwavable cup from Walmart that I used. Mostly for morning coffee or as a makeshift bowl to mix Muesli and yogurt.

I brought a little immersion coil heater along (coil club!) and a couple of times I used this to heat canned soup, and once even cooked a little pasta in the same cup when there were no open stores or restaurants, but I had found some old pasta noodles at the Albergue.

I had duct tape wrapped around the cup for both emergency repairs and because the water would get hot. Worked fine and never melted with the immersion heater. But of course, I was very careful.

 

[mochilaverde]

I carried a microwaveable tupperware container - good for microwaving ramen, for takeaway leftovers or just for carrying tomatoes without squishing them.

 

[muddy-mama]

This was a question I had before walking in 2021. I was told the municipal albergues often don't have equipment so I took a lightweight titanium mug with the thought I could use it on the stoves. This being just after covid the kitchens were all closed but most albergues had useable microwaves but no cups. On my Pilgrimages since I have taken a strong plastic cup.
With there being two of you a titanium and a plastic mug could be a solution.

 

[C clearly]

I carry a titanium mug with folding handles, and a small round plastic container with a screw-on lid. Both are sized so I can put a small drink bottle/can (my usual emergency reserves) in, to conserve space in my pack.

 

[henrythedog]

Microwaves are most frequent.

 

[Shades of Narnia]

I had a plain, no handles, microwavable cup (89 cents at Walmart) to heat water in the microwave. Added the small pan from an Asian Bazaar in Sarria for eggs, etc. for my student group in the barren Xunta kitchens. I also carried a spork. I saw a couple of guys who carried a 2-person paella pan clipped to the pack, which could be used as a skillet or for paella. They cooked thier own meals in this every night.

It is overkill, but I like to be prepared for those Xunta albergues in the middle of no where or where the only restaurant is closed the day I am there.

I always have a package of dry soup mix, some Baby Bell Cheese, a package of walnuts, instant coffee. At a store, if available, I would buy yogurt, eggs, and mandarin oranges for a breakfast the next morning.

Kindred spirit, hello . I love outsmarting those stripped down kitchens. Fondly sandi, heading to the Norte on Tuesday

 

[J Willhaus]

Kindred spirit, hello . I love outsmarting those stripped down kitchens. Fondly sandi, heading to the Norte on Tuesday

Just be aware that the cheap pans don't work if the albergue has an induction cooktop. Works fine on the rest, but not at the one in O'Pedrouzo.

 

[duncanwhyte]

You are likely to carry more than you need or will use. But if you don't take something you may starve on occasion.

I take a steel pot and mini gas burner. Steel pots usually come with a plastic bowl insert. the ones from Decathlon work well .

I found titanium became tarnished if used to cook with. And some are difficult to clean.

 

[JerryStroebele]

Just be aware that the cheap pans don't work if the albergue has an induction cooktop. Works fine on the rest, but not at the one in O'Pedrouzo.

I backpack with titanium pots. Great on a small gas stove. But I don't know if they would work on an induction cooktop and surely not in a microwave. I try to avoid plastic but I carry a small very light plastic cup on the Camino for emergency morning coffee and to share a bottle of wine in an albergue. Buen Camino

 

[Jeff Crawley]

And possibly some kind of utensil? I stayed in an Air BnB in Prague in June - fabulously equipped kitchen but not a single dinner or steak knife. We ended up using a carving knife at the counter and eating American style with a fork.
My implement of choice is a titanium spork - longer lasting than plastic and never been snagged be security either.

 

[Gringazolana]

Small titanium pan that doubles as a bowl, small collapsible Tupperware-type container, titanium mug, immersion coil. Covers all bases: stovetop, oven, microwave, neither. Well worth the weight IMO! #TeamCoil

 

[J Willhaus]

And possibly some kind of utensil? I stayed in an Air BnB in Prague in June - fabulously equipped kitchen but not a single dinner or steak knife. We ended up using a carving knife at the counter and eating American style with a fork.
My implement of choice is a titanium spork - longer lasting than plastic and never been snagged be security either.

We also buy a pocket knife with a sharp blade if we don't bring one from home. I am curious what eating American style looks like?

 

[Jeff Crawley]

We also buy a pocket knife with a sharp blade if we don't bring one from home. I am curious what eating American style looks like?

I bought a copy of an Opinel in Puenta la Reina in 2012. 4,50€ and still going strong.

I think it's also called "cut-and-switch" - Use a knife and fork, cut the food up. Put down the knife. Transfer the fork to the right hand. Eat. It's obviously not common across all 50 states then?

One of my school teachers (we're talking about the 1960s here) was Anglo-French and helped train SOE and OSS agents being dropped into occupied Europe. She said one of the hardest lessons the OSS agents had to learn was to eat like a European.

 

[J Willhaus]

I bought a copy of an Opinel in Puenta la Reina in 2012. 4,50€ and still going strong.

I think it's also called "cut-and-switch" - Use a knife and fork, cut the food up. Put down the knife. Transfer the fork to the right hand. Eat. It's obviously not common across all 50 states then?

One of my school teachers (we're talking about the 1960s here) was Anglo-French and helped train SOE and OSS agents being dropped into occupied Europe. She said one of the hardest lessons the OSS agents had to learn was to eat like a European.

Ok, as a rule, I was taught to be polite to keep one hand in your lap on top of your napkin when eating (after cutting something with two hands if course.) Never really thought of that as American.

 

[Robo]

And possibly some kind of utensil? I stayed in an Air BnB in Prague in June - fabulously equipped kitchen but not a single dinner or steak knife. We ended up using a carving knife at the counter and eating American style with a fork.
My implement of choice is a titanium spork - longer lasting than plastic and never been snagged be security either.

Yep. Got one of those…
And a small pocket knife.

 

[Robo]

We also buy a pocket knife with a sharp blade if we don't bring one from home. I am curious what eating American style looks like?

With a fork only, having first cut things up and laid the knife down

 

[Stephan the Painter]

And possibly some kind of utensil?

I did well with a pocket knife and just a small spoon.

And of course, the microwavable cup and heat coil I mentioned above. Originally this was all designed for my coffee addiction, but I managed to cook a lot of things with those implements

 

[Jeff Crawley]

I did well with a pocket knife and just a small spoon.

And of course, the microwavable cup and heat coil I mentioned above. Originally this was all designed for my coffee addiction, but I managed to cook a lot of things with those implements

A spoon is, after all, more useful than a fork. Imagine trying to eat soup . . . .

 

[ChrisGoh]

Mine is slightly extreme. I brought with me a dual voltage travel cooker (900 grams). Some albergues I stayed in on Frances do not have cooking facilities / some are super busy. It’s a commitment for sure, but as a vegetarian who does not take allium, it’s been worth while for me. I’ve boiled eggs, cooked instant noodles to frying rice (with pre-cooked rice/grains from Brillante which you can find in most supermarkets in larger towns).

 

[Mycroft]

I bought a copy of an Opinel in Puenta la Reina in 2012. 4,50€ and still going strong.

I think it's also called "cut-and-switch" - Use a knife and fork, cut the food up. Put down the knife. Transfer the fork to the right hand. Eat. It's obviously not common across all 50 states then?

One of my school teachers (we're talking about the 1960s here) was Anglo-French and helped train SOE and OSS agents being dropped into occupied Europe. She said one of the hardest lessons the OSS agents had to learn was to eat like a European.

I am happy I read your comment, Jeff! I got a laugh about how we Americans eat--and yes, that is how we do it in all 50 states. We just don't think of it being called 'American style'! When I was doing post-graduate work in England many years ago, The Society for Overseas Students said something about the group getting together to eat American style. What is that?, I asked. It was what we Americans call a potluck supper!

I also was pleased to add that bit of history from your school days to my repertoire! What a treasure to have had a teacher with such interesting experiences!

 

[Mycroft]

OK. I'm over thinking this............again

But planning is fun!

For our (Pat and I) next Camino we are doing a Hybrid.

1. The Madrid to Sahagun.
2. Sanabres from Ourense to SDC
3. Then Muxia Fisterra SDC.

As I write this I'm telling my self the answer is neither!
But..........

We may need to cook a couple of evening meals or breakfasts on the Routes 1 and 2 above when staying at Albergues.
I'm thinking of breakfast in Oseira for example. But there might be 2-3 more times.

So the question is, because I'm not carrying both.

Would you carry a very light (80g) titanium 600 ml pot. to use on a stove.
or
A similar size and weight 'cup', that could be used in a Microwave?

The question being of course, what is most frequently available?
A stove top or a microwave?

I'm more inclined to just make do with cold food.
Sardines and a bread roll are my go to DIY breakfast.

But 'madam' may require a boiled egg / instant noodles or something.......
Happy wife..........happy life.

Of course a Rice Cooker would be the obvious thing!
No. Not going there again..........

BC (Before COVID) I found albergues to have such a variety of utensils in the kitchens, it was easy for me to prep my vegetarian meals. After lock down, I was shocked kitchens had nothing or next to nothing. Even newly remodeled albergues might have a microwave or a stove, but no way to use them. As others have mentioned, I, too, have found most places will have a microwave oven. I bought a good quality silicone zip-lock pouch-style container that I can use in the microwave to heat water or food, and it doubles as a to-go container. I've seen many sizes and styles for sale. I also have a collapsible silicone cup that I can use to make my cuppa from the heated water, and then use the zip pouch to heat the food while I sit back and sip.

 

[unadara]

Plastic beaker with lid as above that fits a Can or the like, also I might carry Coffee/Wine etc or leftovers, I tend to eat cold though, pick and mix with a Tin of Tuna..

 

[Robo]

I bought a good quality silicone zip-lock pouch-style container that I can use in the microwave to heat water or food, and it doubles as a to-go container. I've seen many sizes and styles for sale.

Interesting. I don't think I've seen those.
Do you have a link to an example?
It sounds a bit dangerous to use with liquids in a Microwave?

 

[Stephan the Painter]

Interesting. I don't think I've seen those.
Do you have a link to an example?
It sounds a bit dangerous to use with liquids in a Microwave?

I was curious also, and found this:https://www.target.com/p/ziploc-end...torage-pouch-large-8211-64-fl-oz/-/A-84594678

 

[Jeff Crawley]

I was curious also, and found this:https://www.target.com/p/ziploc-end...torage-pouch-large-8211-64-fl-oz/-/A-84594678

I've something similar - if anybody knows how to get the tomato'y stains of bolognaise sauce out please advise. Otherwise they great - especially poaching fish without smell.

 

[Mycroft]

Interesting. I don't think I've seen those.
Do you have a link to an example?
It sounds a bit dangerous to use with liquids in a Microwave?

I'll try to remember to look it up in the next few and pass the info on to you, Robo. The one I have has a fold at the base and so stands up on its own. I have not had any problem with spillage.

 

[Kirkie]

Sorry if I am late to the party: Lekue is a reliable brand. Wonderful for fish in microwave, and presumably for whatever else. I cannot be daft enough to say it weighs nothing, but it is negligible, and bends much more easily than your elbow.

 

[duncanwhyte]

A food flask system can provide soups and stews. You prepare in the albergues before you walk. Fill with food pieces then top up with boiling water. By lunchtime it's cooked. Usually two feedings can be got from the one flask.

 

[RJM]

On my most recent Camino Frances this past July-August I stayed in both private and public albergues and definitely saw more microwave ovens available in their kitchens than conventional stoves, though I did see a number of water boilers. For that reason I would say a microwaveable bowl, about 20 oz size and a microwaveable coffee style cup, 12 oz size, would be quite handy along with a couple of backpacking style utensils (spoon, fork) for those that want to prepare their own quick meals from food bought at the mercados. They don't weigh much at all and if it's something you will use frequently while walking the Camino they are worth carrying. If you look on amazon there are many available.

 

[Robo]

I was curious also, and found this:https://www.target.com/p/ziploc-end...torage-pouch-large-8211-64-fl-oz/-/A-84594678

Interesting. I bought the 'medium' pouch (473 ml) to see what it is like.
12.7 x 15.2 x 2.9 cms.

A clever idea, but........

at 80 gms it weighs the same as our 550 ml microwave container or our 650 ml titanium pot.
Also it's quite small. Whilst it has a 473 ml capacity, I'm not sure that much would fit in and still be easily closed / handled.

So not sure it will find its way into my pack sadly.

Nice idea though.

 

[Jeff Crawley]

A food flask system can provide soups and stews. You prepare in the albergues before you walk. Fill with food pieces then top up with boiling water. By lunchtime it's cooked. Usually two feedings can be got from the one flask.

The old Boy Scout hay box technique! I use this to make porridge (oatmeal to our US readers) in the winter - prep it before bedtime and breakfast is ready when you rise. BUT, and it's a big but, where can you find one that is a) compact; b) lightweight and c) rugged enough. I had a lovely one that was plastic and had a convenient handle, came with a screw off bowl and was easy to clean. Sadly the glass inner shell didn't survive a drop of 6" onto a work counter

 

[Kirkie]

The old Boy Scout hay box technique! I use this to make porridge (oatmeal to our US readers) in the winter - prep it before bedtime and breakfast is ready when you rise. BUT, and it's a big but, where can you find one that is a) compact; b) lightweight and c) rugged enough. I had a lovely one that was plastic and had a convenient handle, came with a screw off bowl and was easy to clean. Sadly the glass inner shell didn't survive a drop of 6" onto a work counter

Well, having never been any kind of scout, tell me more...
I put a minuscule little cup of porridge oats into a pot before going to bed, top it with three equal measures of milk, turn on the gas in the morning and stir for three minutes. Poured into a bowl, and more milk in a little cup, dipping a spoonful of porridge into the cold milk to get the contrasting hot and cold...
In my childhood, salt was always added. Whatever about hints re healthy living, I no longer add the salt.
Sorry, ancestors.
Never sugar by the way.
Too Sassenach.


I will explore further - why be lazy and wait for someone else to give an answer! - but here is a photo with a Dixie...

Every day is, or can be, a school day. When my mother took me to register for school, the secretary, the inimitable Miss Hall, told my mother, and me, by extension, that there were no spare places. I would not be five till tomorrow's date, 1952. Next enrollment was January of the following year. Yes, I will be 77 tomorrow! On the way down the corridor, open classroom doors showed me empty desks. My first disillusionment in the truthfulness of adults.

 

[Robo]

The old Boy Scout hay box technique! I use this to make porridge (oatmeal to our US readers) in the winter - prep it before bedtime and breakfast is ready when you rise. BUT, and it's a big but, where can you find one that is a) compact; b) lightweight and c) rugged enough. I had a lovely one that was plastic and had a convenient handle, came with a screw off bowl and was easy to clean. Sadly the glass inner shell didn't survive a drop of 6" onto a work counter

You can actually make a nice Bircher Muesli with cold ingredients.
I used to make it at home for years.

For plain 'cold' porridge.....add some rolled oats to a cup, top up with water and leave in fridge overnight.
The Scots may want to use water instead of milk and add a pinch of salt

At home I would use a ziplock bag to make up a more interesting mix of whatever I found in the store.
Rolled Oats + Melon seeds, sesame seeds, raisins, oat bran, lethicin, etc etc.
Fill to about 2/3. fill up with milk.
Leave overnight.
Yummy!

I'm not sure I'd bother carrying all that on Camino, but some rolled oats and trail mix might work well enough.

Of course the difficulty in Spain is getting fresh milk.
But I suppose UHT would OK........ish.

For a warm version, just microwave.

 

[Kirkie]

You can actually make a nice Bircher Muesli with cold ingredients.
I used to make it at home for years.

For plain 'cold' porridge.....add some rolled oats to a cup, top up with water and leave in fridge overnight.
The Scots may want to use water instead of milk and add a pinch of salt

At home I would use a ziplock bag to make up a more interesting mix of whatever I found in the store.
Rolled Oats + Melon seeds, sesame seeds, raisins, oat bran, lethicin, etc etc.
Fill to about 2/3. fill up with milk.
Leave overnight.
Yummy!

I'm not sure I'd bother carrying all that on Camino, but some rolled oats and trail mix might work well enough.

Of course the difficulty in Spain is getting fresh milk.
But I suppose UHT would OK........ish.

For a warm version, just microwave.

Not so hard now to get fresh milk.. but uht is based on similar. Or exact. We are lucky, we have choices.

 

[Jeff Crawley]

Well, having never been any kind of scout, tell me more...
I put a minuscule little cup of porridge oats into a pot before going to bed, top it with three equal measures of milk, turn on the gas in the morning and stir for three minutes. Poured into a bowl, and more milk in a little cup, dipping a spoonful of porridge into the cold milk to get the contrasting hot and cold...
In my childhood, salt was always added. Whatever about hints re healthy living, I no longer add the salt.
Sorry, ancestors.
Never sugar by the way.
Too Sassenach.


I will explore further - why be lazy and wait for someone else to give an answer! - but here is a photo with a Dixie...
View attachment 181351
Every day is, or can be, a school day. When my mother took me to register for school, the secretary, the inimitable Miss Hall, told my mother, and me, by extension, that there were no spare places. I would not be five till tomorrow's date, 1952. Next enrollment was January of the following year. Yes, I will be 77 tomorrow! On the way down the corridor, open classroom doors showed me empty desks. My first disillusionment in the truthfulness of adults.
View attachment 181352

Last thing at night in Crawley Mansions the butler tempers a vacuum flask with boiling water, empties it out and adds one measure of oats and two and a half measures of milk just off the boil and seals up the flask before snuffing out the candles and going to bed. On rising with the lark he then prepares the coffee and the creamy porridge mixture is decanted into a bowl - no salt due to BP concerns but sometimes a squidge of honey is added. Bliss ensues.

As to the hay box method you simple took a wooden tea chest - one of the few left after that disgraceful episode in Boston (the one in the colonies, not the real one) and line it with hay on the base and around the inside. Take your mother's dixie fill it with the goods and bring the mixture up to not quite bubbling. Place said dixie in said tea chest. Cover with hay. Replace wooden lid. Spend an uncomfortable night in a damp, mildewy tent covered by an itchy wool blanket. Rise the next morning to a drizzly English pre-dawn. Dip your mess tin into the grey sludge that lines the dixie and remind yourself of all the fun . . . that your brothers and sister are having at home,
PS I understand that modern day scouts use polystyrene nodules rather than hay.

PPS many happy returns. 77 is a good one. I was 73 in September and have taken to remind people of the fact quite often and in a quavering voice . . . "Do you know how old I am??? Se se seventy three!"
My daughter asked me how long I was going to keep it up and I told her "All Year"
Lá breithe shona duit!

 

[Jeff Crawley]

"You can actually make a nice Bircher Muesli with cold ingredients."

I'm sure you can but fail to see why you would want to, on purpose that is

No disrespects but I'll stick with what I'm used to - as there's no chance of breaking a tooth as might happen with muesli (ask me how I know).

My father, who learned how to make real porridge while defending Scotland from impending invasion in WW2, would not approve but there you go. The world of porridge making is a broad church, all worshippers are welcome therein.

Not sure how we got so side tracked from cooking pots and cups but there we go.

¡Buen Camino a todos!

 

[Robo]

"You can actually make a nice Bircher Muesli with cold ingredients."

I'm sure you can but fail to see why you would want to, on purpose that is

No disrespects but I'll stick with what I'm used to - as there's no chance of breaking a tooth as might happen with muesli (ask me how I know).

My father, who learned how to make real porridge while defending Scotland from impending invasion in WW2, would not approve but there you go. The world of porridge making is a broad church, all worshippers are welcome therein.

Not sure how we got so side tracked from cooking pots and cups but there we go.

¡Buen Camino a todos!

LOL.

Try it one day.

Nothing hard in it to break your teeth. It's the texture of porridge.
Not to be confused with that packet Muesli rubbish!
Think of it as Milky Porridge with tasty bits in it

Back to cooking pots.
I might try making some on Camino.........

 

[peregrina2000]

Of course a Rice Cooker would be the obvious thing!
No. Not going there again..........

I can’t resist, because I think our newer forum members would love to see this classic thread about a rice cooker. I’ve linked it here.

 

[Jeff Crawley]

LOL.

Try it one day.

Nothing hard in it to break your teeth. It's the texture of porridge.
Not to be confused with that packet Muesli rubbish!
Think of it as Milky Porridge with tasty bits in it

Back to cooking pots.
I might try making some on Camino.........

If I can filter out any nuts! Oh to be on the Camino rather than in rainy old England - I miss Spain.

 

[Jeff Crawley]

I can’t resist, because I think our newer forum members would love to see this classic thread about a rice cooker. I’ve linked it here.

Ah the gift that keeps on giving. This might be the solution to Robo's rice and porridge needs - I'm all for multi-usage.

I've a smaller, one litre size, version at home



12cm diameter, 10 cm high 130gm and this one, as opposed to the Sistema one tagged above which is made in NZ, comes from Thailand.

All you need is a microwave . . . and the rice of course.

 

[RJM]

I came across this one Amazon. I like its multiple purpose qualities which I find important on the Camino. Noodle bowl, soup bowl, cereal bowl and even tea and coffee cup, albeit a large one, but works nonetheless and a compromise from carrying multiple vessels.

 

[domigee]

Ah the gift that keeps on giving. This might be the solution to Robo's rice and porridge needs - I'm all for multi-usage.

I've a smaller, one litre size, version at home

View attachment 181395

12cm diameter, 10 cm high 130gm and this one, as opposed to the Sistema one tagged above which is made in NZ, comes from Thailand.

All you need is a microwave . . . and the rice of course.

Haha I've got the same one in Spain, works brilliantly. Never thought of taking it on the Camino, though

 

[Jeff Crawley]

View attachment 181433
I came across this one Amazon. I like its multiple purpose qualities which I find important on the Camino. Noodle bowl, soup bowl, cereal bowl and even tea and coffee cup, albeit a large one, but works nonetheless and a compromise from carrying multiple vessels.

Brilliant find! They also do a slightly smaller 850ml "breakfast bowl"



Which is: "specifically designed to heat porridge and other breakfasts."

And an even smaller one (565ml) for "soups"

 

[Stephan the Painter]

You don't even have to cook oats to eat them.

At home, I often make Muesli like my German grandmother did by mixing up oats, fruit, nuts, and yogurt in a bowl and letting sit overnight in the refrigerator. No cooking required. No refrigerator either, if it's not hot.

I If one wanted to, while hiking a Camino, one could use a small container (or sturdy plastic cup/bowl like bring along) and just soak oats overnight in water. If you also had some yogurt, raisins, sweetener or nuts, that would be a real treat. But the oats will soften enough just with water overnight to eat. A microwave or refrigerator would be a real luxury!

I seem to recall seeing premixed containers of Muesli with raisins and nuts in Spanish grocery store sometimes.

 

[J Willhaus]

Brilliant find! They also do a slightly smaller 850ml "breakfast bowl"

View attachment 181452

Which is: "specifically designed to heat porridge and other breakfasts."

And an even smaller one (565ml) for "soups"

View attachment 181453

We have the smaller one.

 

[Mycroft]

I'll try to remember to look it up in the next few and pass the info on to you, Robo. The one I have has a fold at the base and so stands up on its own. I have not had any problem with spillage.

Interesting. I don't think I've seen those.
Do you have a link to an example?
It sounds a bit dangerous to use with liquids in a Microwave?

I looked at rei.com, which is where I bought the silicone pouch I have but for some reason it does not show up in my list of purchases. However they have something close to what I bought a year and a half ago:
https://www.rei.com/product/233012/humangear-gopouch-silicone-storage-pouch-medium

humangear GoPouch Silicone Storage Pouch - Medium | REI Co-op Whether you fill it with snacks, toiletries or electronics, this humangear GoPouch Silicone medium storage pouch keeps your things organized and protected from the elements with a leakproof seal. www.rei.com

 

[trecile]

You don't even have to cook oats to eat them.

At home, I often make Muesli like my German grandmother did by mixing up oats, fruit, nuts, and yogurt in a bowl and letting sit overnight in the refrigerator. No cooking required.

You're right. I haven't tried it myself, but I've been seeing tons of "overnight oats" recipes online recently.

Easy Overnight Oats

This easy overnight oats recipe only needs 2 ingredients oats and milk! A healthy simple breakfast for busy mornings. Customize with add-ins and toppings!

feelgoodfoodie.net

 

[trecile]

Or you can get Gossamer Gear's "Crotch Pot" and use your body heat to cook.

Stoveless Cooking: The Crotch Pot

This third option between stoves and no-cook is the brainchild of Gossamer Gear founder Glen Van Peski. Infrared images of the human body confirm what is basically common knowledge; one of the hottest parts of the human body is the crotch area. Your body naturally generates significant heat...

www.gossamergear.com

 

[kelleymac]

I had a plain, no handles, microwavable cup (89 cents at Walmart) to heat water in the microwave. Added the small pan from an Asian Bazaar in Sarria for eggs, etc. for my student group in the barren Xunta kitchens. I also carried a spork. I saw a couple of guys who carried a 2-person paella pan clipped to the pack, which could be used as a skillet or for paella. They cooked thier own meals in this every night.

It is overkill, but I like to be prepared for those Xunta albergues in the middle of no where or where the only restaurant is closed the day I am there.

I always have a package of dry soup mix, some Baby Bell Cheese, a package of walnuts, instant coffee. At a store, if available, I would buy yogurt, eggs, and mandarin oranges for a breakfast the next morning.

Yes, what are the "barren Xunta kitchens" about? Why are they barren? Why do they exist? Is it to torture pilgrims or to suggest that we should run out and buy pots, pans, table wear, and dishes? How about a sponge? Or some soap? Why were the stoves, tables and cupboards put in?
These mysteries I pondered walking the way...

 

[RJM]

Yes, what are the "barren Xunta kitchens" about? Why are they barren? Why do they exist? Is it to torture pilgrims or to suggest that we should run out and buy pots, pans, table wear, and dishes? How about a sponge? Or some soap? Why were the stoves, tables and cupboards put in?
These mysteries I pondered walking the way...

I think they are just a lingering byproduct of the pandemic.

 

[Camino Chrissy]

I think they are just a lingering byproduct of the pandemic.

I saw these barren Xunta kitchens in 2015 long before the covid pandemic. They are often very attractive looking, shiny stainless, but are nearly useless.

 

[Robo]

I think they are just a lingering byproduct of the pandemic.

More likely, to encourage us to use local cafes. I also recall reading somewhere that they got fed up with kitchen gear being stolen. Not sure how true that is....

 

[duncanwhyte]

Most of the albergue kitchens on the VDLP had just the microwave. No cutlery or cooking tools, pots or pans.

Where there was an equipped kitchen the previous nights pilgrims had done a poor effort in cleaning and tidying. It's just extra work for the hospitaleros.

When being shown into some of the albergue by the hospitaleros I was aware of a discouraging attitude from them, on arriving at the kitchen.

Such gleaming cookers and spotless worktops, the like of which cried out for the creation of a feast. But sadly idle and unlikely to be used.

Luckily I carry enough to cook my own meals.

 

[chinacat]

You can actually make a nice Bircher Muesli with cold ingredients.
I used to make it at home for years.

For plain 'cold' porridge.....add some rolled oats to a cup, top up with water and leave in fridge overnight.
The Scots may want to use water instead of milk and add a pinch of salt

At home I would use a ziplock bag to make up a more interesting mix of whatever I found in the store.
Rolled Oats + Melon seeds, sesame seeds, raisins, oat bran, lethicin, etc etc.
Fill to about 2/3. fill up with milk.
Leave overnight.
Yummy!

I'm not sure I'd bother carrying all that on Camino, but some rolled oats and trail mix might work well enough.

Of course the difficulty in Spain is getting fresh milk.
But I suppose UHT would OK........ish.

For a warm version, just microwave.

Where’s the grated apple?

 

[chinacat]

What about this, @Robo ?

I don’t know how much it weighs.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Coffee-Pocket-Collapsible-Silicone-Travel/dp/B07RVN3QCJ/ref=sr_1_31?crid=2H5ETX46ABLJM&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.6ozg0bE2zD8FGFAr7yS5nDFlWKcKSdyMQIzKkwZnSJliLkmIUaE7T1T12FKlfWEuA1PWAnxki3TZan9EDJxEcD7vTgsdRWiPD4xHUKWoSetbv65bpMktU99_8N-Ug3QqU8G3uVvCpzLuwarH4_ovi0zrRe_dcXgPnrzG2XV6fKTOZ-SDJCukFyYhzocf7Y8Samg0I9mIZEE5O7_R6r8pUx8wG12zYsJfwMeGtXeVKcyd7heXb5kLsRby4kT57O3wZdNcmWd_at9YpLbDv1EF25NfpASufY68fn9l-NQ0atQ.coDy3mP06lFLNucC02HfkchgP5Xa4JxaFhzt-qmYAwA&dib_tag=se&keywords=silicone+cup&qid=1732860416&s=kitchen&sprefix=silscone+cup%2Ckitchen%2C129&sr=1-31

Edit:
Why is that link sooooo long???

 

[chinacat]

Or this:
(the same but cheaper )

https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0C61B6WSV/ref=sspa_dk_detail_3?psc=1&pd_rd_i=B0C61B6WSV&pd_rd_w=SdyIr&content-id=amzn1.sym.7b0d8b34-54be-4fd2-9baf-2d658b11dc53&pf_rd_p=7b0d8b34-54be-4fd2-9baf-2d658b11dc53&pf_rd_r=CHSQ1VJDWZ2Q6NAN1T01&pd_rd_wg=djLTF&pd_rd_r=0e0c771a-3c34-4ca2-802b-bab856f07183&s=kitchen&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9kZXRhaWxfdGhlbWF0aWM

 

[Robo]

Where’s the grated apple?

Is there a Swiss army knife with a grater? but dried fruit works well. Soaked overnight

 

[chinacat]

Is there a Swiss army knife with a grater?

There’s a thought ….

 

[chinacat]

How about this?
3” across at the widest.
Lightweight.
It keeps coming off its wooden handle .

 

[Robo]

How about this?
3” across at the widest.
Lightweight.View attachment 181483
It keeps coming off its wooden handle .

All these gadgets are starting to add up weight wise!

 

[Kirkie]

More likely, to encourage us to use local cafes. I also recall reading somewhere that they got fed up with kitchen gear being stolen. Not sure how true that is....

Me neither. Re the truth of the myth. It predates Covid though, for sure. How well I recall on the Portugues, the gleaming kitchens in the municipal albergues. Devoid of anything that was not screwed down. The sense was, definitely, to support local cafes and restaurants. €5 euro for a ginormous plate of pasta, and a swirl of performance by the owner of one such cafe, as he brought his amuse bouche , flaming, to the table. Who could complain? Yesterday was the day, but we can still be thankful today.

 

[Jeff Crawley]

What about this, @Robo ?

I don’t know how much it weighs.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Coffee-Pocket-Collapsible-Silicone-Travel/dp/B07RVN3QCJ/ref=sr_1_31?crid=2H5ETX46ABLJM&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.6ozg0bE2zD8FGFAr7yS5nDFlWKcKSdyMQIzKkwZnSJliLkmIUaE7T1T12FKlfWEuA1PWAnxki3TZan9EDJxEcD7vTgsdRWiPD4xHUKWoSetbv65bpMktU99_8N-Ug3QqU8G3uVvCpzLuwarH4_ovi0zrRe_dcXgPnrzG2XV6fKTOZ-SDJCukFyYhzocf7Y8Samg0I9mIZEE5O7_R6r8pUx8wG12zYsJfwMeGtXeVKcyd7heXb5kLsRby4kT57O3wZdNcmWd_at9YpLbDv1EF25NfpASufY68fn9l-NQ0atQ.coDy3mP06lFLNucC02HfkchgP5Xa4JxaFhzt-qmYAwA&dib_tag=se&keywords=silicone+cup&qid=1732860416&s=kitchen&sprefix=silscone+cup%2Ckitchen%2C129&sr=1-31

Edit:
Why is that link sooooo long???

My daughter had one - not to be recommended.

To squeeze down impossibly long URLs use TinyURL.com and it becomes https://tinyurl.com/yn9w93sf

 

[Jeff Crawley]

I saw these barren Xunta kitchens in 2015 long before the covid pandemic. They are often very attractive looking, shiny stainless, but are nearly useless.

Indeed. I remember the Arca albergue at O Pedrouzo having a wonderful array of pots and pans but not a single cooking utensil and the Swiss run albergue in Ponferrada with the beautifully equipped kitchen where cooking was not allowed because it would make the room smell of food (duh!) Both in 2001.

 

[Jeff Crawley]

All these gadgets are starting to add up weight wise!

Remember when Nescafe coffee came in small tins? I went on several camping weekends in Canada where a friend took along a homemade grater (to grate potatoes for hash browns) made from a coffee tin lid that had a series of holes punched through with a nail, the nail then being pushed sideways to form the gouge. Much like this:

 

[Kirkie]

Remember when Nescafe coffee came in small tins? I went on several camping weekends in Canada where a friend took along a homemade grater (to grate potatoes for hash browns) made from a coffee tin lid that had a series of holes punched through with a nail, the nail then being pushed sideways to form the gouge. Much like this:
View attachment 181498

Yes, I remember. Quarter ounce tins? My mother took a fancy to it, and I can still imagine the smell of the milky coffee she produced. Hidden Persuaders were at their tasks rather a long time ago!

 

[Jeff Crawley]

Yes, I remember. Quarter ounce tins? My mother took a fancy to it, and I can still imagine the smell of the milky coffee she produced. Hidden Persuaders were at their tasks rather a long time ago!
View attachment 181500

Now that looks like an interesting read. Downloaded for after I finish with Dervla!

 

[J Willhaus]

Yes, what are the "barren Xunta kitchens" about? Why are they barren? Why do they exist? Is it to torture pilgrims or to suggest that we should run out and buy pots, pans, table wear, and dishes? How about a sponge? Or some soap? Why were the stoves, tables and cupboards put in?
These mysteries I pondered walking the way...

The Xunta albergues have been this way as long as I have been on the Camino (2016). Others may be able to give a longer history. The cleaners/minders take anything left (cup, pot, etc.) the next day. I was told by a staff person to encourage pilgrims to dine locally although that isn't always possible depending on the remote locations of some albergues or the day/holiday, etc.

 

[alipilgrim]

Brilliant find! They also do a slightly smaller 850ml "breakfast bowl"

View attachment 181452

Which is: "specifically designed to heat porridge and other breakfasts."

And an even smaller one (565ml) for "soups"

View attachment 181453

I find cups like these hanging off special displays in my grocery’s aisles. I like a size large enough for a bowl of coffee , that can do instant noodles, and that can carry delicate fruit such as peaches or tomatoes in my bag during the day. I’m also a member of the immersion heater club and I find the plastic doesn’t heat up and potentially burn lips like a metal cup can.

 

[Takahiwai]

In 1998, the Xunta refugio kitchens, with the exception of the one at Arca/O Pino, were completely empty of cooking utensils, cooking vessels, crockery, and cutlery, as far as I recall. I need no encouragement to dine out and support local businesses, but as @J Willhaus points out, those refugios are often miles away from any dine-out option!

 

[GPeachy]

Stasher silicon pouches can be used to store food, heat up food in the microwave or over and can also be placed in a pan of boiling water for heating up food. They are safe for cooking up to 425 degrees F / 218 degrees C. They can be purchased from their website in the US or on Amazon in other locations. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but it seems that their bowl shape would be most useful for the Camino. https://www.stasherbag.com/

 

[kelleymac]

I think they are just a lingering byproduct of the pandemic.

I walked in 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2019. The time is coming for me to walk the Way again.

 

[kelleymac]

When I backpack here in NYS on the FingerLakes Trail, I carry a little solo stove the comes with a little pot. I also carry a metal cup. I carried a metal cup on my first camino as well, but rarely used it.
I wonder if I set up my solo stove in a Xunta Albergue, would it cause a fuss?

 

[chinacat]

Stasher silicon pouches can be used to store food, heat up food in the microwave or over and can also be placed in a pan of boiling water for heating up food. They are safe for cooking up to 425 degrees F / 218 degrees C. They can be purchased from their website in the US or on Amazon in other locations. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but it seems that their bowl shape would be most useful for the Camino. https://www.stasherbag.com/

These are exorbitantly expensive on Amazon UK!

 

[chinacat]

When I backpack here in NYS on the FingerLakes Trail, I carry a little solo stove the comes with a little pot. I also carry a metal cup. I carried a metal cup on my first camino as well, but rarely used it.
I wonder if I set up my solo stove in a Xunta Albergue, would it cause a fuss?

If it uses gas, you’d have to make sure the area was well ventilated

It would be good to use it in a warm and dry location though, wouldn’t it?
I’ve only ever used mine on windswept hillsides!

Buen Camino!

 

[Mycroft]

I looked at rei.com, which is where I bought the silicone pouch I have but for some reason it does not show up in my list of purchases. However they have something close to what I bought a year and a half ago:
https://www.rei.com/product/233012/humangear-gopouch-silicone-storage-pouch-medium

humangear GoPouch Silicone Storage Pouch - Medium | REI Co-op Whether you fill it with snacks, toiletries or electronics, this humangear GoPouch Silicone medium storage pouch keeps your things organized and protected from the elements with a leakproof seal. www.rei.com

This pouch doesn't focus on using it for cooking the way mine did. Not sure how to interpret that. But it gives you an idea of what I discussed in the post.

 

[GPeachy]

These are exorbitantly expensive on Amazon UK!

They were expensive on Amazon.it too, but they will last for years, are dishwasher safe, and they eliminate the need for plastic sandwich bags / freezer bags/ food storage containers, the cost of which also add up over time.

 

[chinacat]

@GPeachy

I tend to use glass for the fridge and freezer.

The Stasher site itself (US) had BF deals yesterday. They were so much cheaper than Amazon.

PS I don’t have a dishwasher, I have a husband

 

[kelleymac]

If it uses gas, you’d have to make sure the area was well ventilated

It would be good to use it in a warm and dry location though, wouldn’t it?
I’ve only ever used mine on windswept hillsides!

Buen Camino!

Ha. It uses little twigs and wood chips. I wouldn't light it indoors because of the smoke. I don't think I'd bother carrying it unless I decided to camp more. Maybe on Le Chemin from Le Puy-en-Velay?