Carrots might not actually help you see in the dark, but they are a fantastic source of energy when you’re out on the trail. Packed with essential nutrients, they provide a natural boost to keep you going on long hikes and bike rides.

A Nutritional Powerhouse

Carrots are loaded with antioxidants, vitamin A, beta carotene, vitamin C, and various B-complex vitamins. They also contain important minerals such as copper, phosphorus, potassium, and manganese—making them a miniature powerhouse of nutrition.

Durable and Easy to Carry

Unlike delicate fruits and vegetables that bruise easily, carrots are incredibly durable, making them perfect for stuffing into any nook or cranny of your backpack. They don’t require special storage, and you don’t have to worry about them getting crushed. Just remember to keep track of how many you pack—you might find a forgotten carrot tucked away when you unpack at home!

Versatile Trail Food

Carrots can be enjoyed in many ways while hiking or biking. The simplest method is to snack on baby carrots, either whole or sliced into quarters. For extra flavour, dip them into hummus or any other dip of your choice.

Shredded carrots make an excellent addition to wraps or sandwiches, adding both crunch and nutrients. They also work well when rehydrating dehydrated meals—just add finely chopped carrot, pour in boiling water, and let the meal steep.

Spicy Carrot Salad

If carrying a grater seems impractical, a vegetable peeler works well to create thin carrot shreds for a refreshing

salad. To enhance the dish, you can swap out different nuts like walnuts or almonds and store them in a resealable bag. If fresh mint isn’t available, coriander or coriander paste works as a great substitute—though dried mint isn’t recommended due to its lack of freshness.

For keeping fresh herbs vibrant, store them in a bag with a damp paper towel. To prepare the salad dressing, mix the ingredients in a resealable plastic bag—these take up almost no space and can be repurposed as trash bags later.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium carrots, grated
• A handful of shelled pistachios
• A handful of sultanas or raisins
• 20 fresh mint leaves, finely shredded
• 1 clove garlic, finely chopped
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon wholegrain mustard
• Juice of ½ an orange
• Zest of 1 orange (finely sliced)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Prepare the dressing by mixing garlic, cumin, mustard, orange juice, and olive oil.
2. Combine grated carrot, orange zest, nuts, and raisins.
3. Drizzle with the dressing and toss well.

Carrot Halwa

Carrot halwa is a delicious and comforting dish that can be enjoyed warm at the end of a hike or at room temperature if prepared beforehand.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium carrots, grated
  

  

• 1½ cups milk (or reconstituted dried milk powder)
• 4 whole cardamom pods
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2–3 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon flaked almonds
• 2 tablespoons sultanas

Instructions:

1. In a pot, combine grated carrots, milk, and cardamom pods. Bring to a boil.
2. Lower heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, until all the liquid evaporates.
3. Reduce heat to low, push the carrot mixture to one side, and add the oil.
4. Stir-fry the mixture until it takes on a rich, deep colour.
5. Add sugar, almonds, and sultanas, then cook for a couple more minutes.
6. Enjoy warm or at room temperature. For extra indulgence, add a dollop of long-life cream or natural yogurt if space and weight allow.

 Conclusion

Carrots are an excellent choice for hikers looking for a nutrient-rich, durable, and versatile snack. Whether eaten raw, added to meals, or used in creative dishes like salads and halva, they’re a great addition to any backpacking or biking trip. So next time you head out on an adventure, don’t forget to pack some carrots!