Backpacker Instant Vegetable Potato Soup Recipe Made Easy

Updated On: October 8, 2025

When you’re out on the trail, nothing beats a warm, comforting bowl of soup to recharge your energy and lift your spirits. Backpacker instant vegetable potato soup is a perfect meal for outdoor enthusiasts who want something quick, nutritious, and satisfying without carrying heavy ingredients.

This recipe uses lightweight, easily packable ingredients that combine to create a hearty and flavorful soup, ideal for chilly evenings or quick lunch breaks at your campsite. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual camper, this soup will keep you fueled with essential nutrients while being incredibly easy to prepare.

With just a few simple ingredients and minimal equipment, you can whip up this delicious soup in minutes. It’s vegan, wholesome, and adaptable to whatever you have on hand.

Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy a warm meal without compromising on taste or nutrition while embracing the simplicity of backpacking life.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This backpacker instant vegetable potato soup recipe is a game-changer for outdoor cooking. It’s incredibly lightweight and easy to carry, making it perfect for long hikes or camping trips.

The ingredients are shelf-stable and don’t require refrigeration, so you can pack them without worry.

The soup is quick to prepare—just add hot water and wait a few minutes. It’s also packed with nutrients from potatoes, dehydrated vegetables, and herbs, providing energy and vitamins to keep you going strong.

The comforting flavor and creamy texture will remind you of a homemade meal, even in the wilderness.

Plus, this recipe is fully customizable. You can swap out veggies, add your favorite spices, or include extra protein sources like dried beans or lentils.

It’s a nourishing, hassle-free meal that every backpacker should have in their recipe arsenal.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup instant potato flakes (dehydrated mashed potatoes)
  • 1/4 cup dehydrated mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, green beans)
  • 1 tablespoon dehydrated onion flakes
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon vegetable bouillon powder (or vegan-friendly stock powder)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 4 cups boiling water
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor

Equipment

  • Lightweight camping pot or heat-proof bowl
  • Camping stove or portable burner (or access to boiling water)
  • Cooking spoon or spork
  • Measuring cup or scoop
  • Heatproof container with lid (for storing pre-mixed soup blend)

Instructions

  1. Prepare your soup mix: In advance, combine the instant potato flakes, dehydrated mixed vegetables, onion flakes, garlic powder, dried parsley, thyme, and vegetable bouillon powder in a heatproof container. Seal tightly and pack for your trip.
  2. Boil water: At your campsite, bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil using your camping stove or another heat source.
  3. Add the soup mix: Place about 2 cups of the pre-mixed soup blend into your camping pot or bowl.
  4. Pour boiling water: Carefully add the 4 cups of boiling water to the pot or bowl containing the dry soup mix.
  5. Stir and cover: Stir the mixture well to combine and cover the pot or bowl with a lid or plate to trap heat and let it sit for 5-7 minutes.
  6. Check consistency: After resting, stir again. If the soup is too thick, add a little more hot water until you reach your desired consistency.
  7. Season and serve: Taste the soup and add salt, pepper, or nutritional yeast if using. Stir well and enjoy your warm, nourishing meal!

Tips & Variations

“For an even heartier meal, add some instant lentils or dried beans to your soup mix before the trip. They’ll cook along with the soup and add extra protein.”

Here are a few ways to customize this soup:

  • Add a pinch of your favorite spices like smoked paprika, cumin, or a dash of chilli powder to give the soup a spicy kick.
  • Include dehydrated mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra umami flavor.
  • If you prefer a creamier soup, stir in some powdered coconut milk or non-dairy creamer.
  • For an extra boost of nutrients, try tossing in freeze-dried kale or spinach.
  • Experiment with different dried herbs like rosemary or basil depending on your taste preferences.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving (1 bowl)
Calories 180 kcal
Carbohydrates 35 g
Protein 4 g
Fat 1 g
Fiber 3 g
Sodium 600 mg (varies with bouillon type)
Vitamin A 15% DV
Vitamin C 10% DV
Iron 6% DV

Serving Suggestions

This soup is perfectly satisfying on its own, but you can elevate the meal with a few simple additions:

  • Serve with a slice of crusty bread or a tortilla for dipping.
  • Add a handful of crushed nuts or seeds on top for crunch and extra protein.
  • Pair with a fresh salad or a fruit snack for a balanced meal.
  • For a more filling option, stir in cooked grains like quinoa or instant rice.

For more easy and delicious vegan soup recipes perfect for outdoor meals, check out Vegan Fall Soup Recipes To Warm Your Cozy Evenings and Cheap Vegetarian Camping Recipes for Easy Outdoor Meals.

Conclusion

This backpacker instant vegetable potato soup recipe is a must-have for anyone who loves spending time outdoors but doesn’t want to sacrifice flavor or nutrition. It’s lightweight, easy to prepare, and incredibly comforting after a long day of hiking or exploring.

The combination of instant potato flakes and dehydrated vegetables creates a creamy, hearty soup that warms you up and fuels your body with essential nutrients.

What’s great about this recipe is how adaptable it is; you can tailor it to suit your tastes or dietary needs easily. Whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking for a quick and wholesome backpacking meal, this soup will quickly become one of your favorites.

Don’t forget to explore other fantastic vegetarian recipes like A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion and Best Vegetarian Recipes No Dairy for Delicious Meals to keep your outdoor menu exciting and nutritious.

Happy hiking and happy eating!

📖 Recipe Card: Backpacker Instant Vegetable Potato Soup

Description: A quick and hearty soup perfect for backpacking trips. Uses lightweight dehydrated ingredients for easy packing and fast preparation.

Prep Time: PT5M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT20M

Servings: 2 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup dehydrated potato flakes
  • 2 tablespoons dehydrated mixed vegetables
  • 1/4 cup powdered vegetable broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups boiling water
  • 1 tablespoon powdered milk (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil (optional)

Instructions

  1. Boil 2 cups of water.
  2. In a bowl, combine dehydrated potato flakes, mixed vegetables, and powdered broth.
  3. Add garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, salt, and pepper to the dry mix.
  4. Pour boiling water over the dry ingredients and stir well.
  5. Add powdered milk and olive oil if desired for creaminess.
  6. Cover and let sit for 10 minutes.
  7. Stir again and serve hot.

Nutrition: Calories: 180 | Protein: 5g | Fat: 4g | Carbs: 32g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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