Introduction
In the face of emergencies, having a reliable source of sustenance can make all the difference. One such food that has stood the test of time is hardtack, a simple, long-lasting biscuit that has been used for centuries by pioneers, settlers, sailors, and soldiers. This blog post will delve into the history of hardtack, provide a detailed recipe, and explore its role as an emergency food ration. We'll also discuss its connection to the Coast Guard and its modern-day applications.
The History of Hardtack
Hardtack, also known as survival bread, has a rich history. It was a mainstay for pioneers, settlers, sailors, and soldiers during long journeys. This survival bread has an extremely long shelf life, and if properly stored, hardtack can last for years. It was not designed to be a tasty snack, but rather a durable and reliable source of sustenance during hard times.
The Recipe
Creating hardtack is a simple process that requires minimal ingredients: flour, water, and salt. The recipe we'll be using comes from Bread Dad, a site dedicated to all things bread. Here's how you can make your own hardtack at home:
Ingredients:
- 2 Cups – All Purpose Flour
- 3/4 Cup – Water
- 1 1/2 Teaspoons – Salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F.
2. Mix the flour, water, and salt in a bowl until the dough is a little dry and doesn't stick to your fingers.
3. Roll out the dough on a floured surface until it's about 1/3 to 1/2 inches thick.
4. Cut the dough into squares (about 3 inches each).
5. Poke holes in the squares with a chopstick or fork. This prevents the hardtack from puffing up during baking.
6. Place the squares on a baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Flip the hardtack over and bake for another 30 minutes.
8. Remove the hardtack from the oven and let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container.
Remember, hardtack is not a soft cracker or tender biscuit. It's a hard, semi-bland survival food that should be soaked in water, milk, soup, stew, etc. for at least 5-10 minutes to soften before eating.
Hardtack as an Emergency Food Ration
Hardtack's longevity makes it an ideal emergency food ration. It's a cheap way to create long-term survival supplies, costing only pennies to make versus paying a fortune for MREs (Meals Ready to Eat), freeze-dried camping food, etc.
The Coast Guard, for example, has long recognized the value of hardtack as an emergency food source. In fact, hardtack has been part of seafaring culture for centuries, providing sustenance on long voyages when fresh food was scarce or unavailable. Today, it continues to be a staple in emergency preparedness kits.
Hardtack Today
Today, hardtack has found its place in the world of emergency preparedness. It's a staple in many survival kits due to its long shelf life and nutritional value. While it's not a complete meal, it provides a source of carbohydrates that can be vital in survival situations.
In Alaska, hardtack is still part of the regular diet. The most popular brand of hardtack in the United States is Sailor Boy Pilot Bread, which is produced by Interbake Foods of Richmond, Virginia. As of 2015, 98 percent of its production goes to Alaska.
Conclusion
In conclusion, hardtack is a versatile, long-lasting food that has been used for centuries. It's easy to make, inexpensive, and can last for years when stored properly. Whether you're a sailor, a soldier, a pioneer, or just someone preparing for an emergency, hardtack is a food source that you can rely on. So why not try making some hardtack today? You never know when it might come in handy.
Remember, in times of crisis, having a reliable source of sustenance can make all the difference. Whether it's hardtack, Coast Guard emergency food, or other emergency food rations, it's always better to be prepared. Stay safe, and happy baking!
