Cheap Vegetarian Camping Recipes for Easy Outdoor Meals

There’s nothing quite like a meal cooked outdoors after a day of hiking or paddling. But camping food doesn’t have to mean expensive freeze-dried pouches or bland beans.

In fact, with a little planning, you can enjoy delicious, hearty, and cheap vegetarian camping recipes that keep both your wallet and your taste buds happy. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor chef or a beginner camper, these recipes are designed to be easy, affordable, and nourishing—perfect for fueling your adventures.

In this post, I’ll share my top three favorite budget-friendly vegetarian camping recipes, packed with flavor and made with ingredients you can easily find at any grocery store. Plus, you’ll find helpful tips, equipment lists, nutrition facts, and creative serving ideas to make your next camping trip a true culinary experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Affordable: Each recipe uses simple, pantry-staple ingredients that won’t break the bank.
• No Fridge Needed: All meals are designed to be safe without refrigeration, making them perfect for car camping or backpacking.
• Quick & Easy: Minimal prep and cook time means you spend more time enjoying nature and less time cooking.
• Satisfying & Nutritious: These dishes are hearty, protein-rich, and sure to keep you full after a long day outdoors.
• Flexible: Each recipe can be customized based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

“Camping food can be vibrant, filling, and budget-friendly—no fancy gear or specialty stores required!”

Cheap Vegetarian Camping Recipes: The List

Here are three of my go-to cheap vegetarian camping recipes. Each one is designed for easy campfire or camp stove cooking, using ingredients that are lightweight, inexpensive, and widely available.

• Campfire Veggie Chili
• One-Pot Lentil Stew
• Peanut Butter Banana Wraps

Campfire Veggie Chili

Ingredients

Equipment

• Medium or large pot
• Camp stove or campfire grill
• Stirring spoon
• Can opener
• Knife & cutting board
• Bowl and spoon for serving

Instructions

1. Prep your veggies: Dice the onion, bell pepper, and garlic (if using fresh).
2. Heat your pot: Place the pot over your camp stove or campfire. Add a splash of oil if available, then sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic for 3-4 minutes, until softened.
3. Add the beans and tomatoes: Stir in the drained beans and canned tomatoes (including their juices).
4. Season: Add chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and any optional add-ins. Mix well.
5. Add liquid: Pour in water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Taste and adjust: Add more seasoning if desired. If you like it spicy, add hot sauce.
7. Serve: Ladle into bowls. Enjoy hot, straight from the pot!

Tips & Variations

• No fresh veggies? Use dehydrated onion and bell pepper, or skip for an ultra-light backpacking version.
• Boost the protein: Add a handful of TVP (textured vegetable protein) or extra beans.
• Make it smoky: Cook over real wood for that classic campfire flavor.
• Leftovers: Use the chili as a filling for wraps or serve over instant rice for another meal.

“For a lighter pack, pre-mix spices at home and store them in a small zip-top bag.”

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

• Top with crushed tortilla chips or a sprinkle of cheese (if you’re not vegan).
• Serve with homemade lemon crackers for a tangy crunch.
• Pair with a simple salad or grilled corn on the cob if you have a fire grate.

One-Pot Lentil Stew

Ingredients

Equipment

• Large pot
• Camp stove or fire grate
• Stirring spoon
• Knife & cutting board
• Bowl and spoon

Instructions

1. Prep veggies: Dice carrot, potato, onion, and garlic (if using fresh).
2. Combine in pot: Add all ingredients to your pot, including water/broth and seasonings.
3. Bring to a boil: Place on heat source, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
4. Cook: Simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils and veggies are tender.
5. Taste and adjust: Add more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.
6. Serve: Ladle into bowls. Enjoy hot with camp bread or crackers!

Tips & Variations

• Instant version: Use red lentils for a quicker cook time (about 15 minutes).
• Add grains: Stir in a handful of instant rice or bulgur wheat for a heartier stew.
• Spice it up: Add curry powder or smoked paprika for extra flavor.
• No broth? A bouillon cube and water works great in a pinch.

“Lentils are a camping superstar—cheap, shelf-stable, and packed with protein and fiber.”

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a slice of high altitude wheat bread for dipping.
• Top with a swirl of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
• Enjoy with a mug of homemade campfire syrup for a cozy nightcap.

Peanut Butter Banana Wraps

Ingredients

Equipment

• Butter knife or spoon
• Small cutting board
• Camp plate or napkin

Instructions

1. Spread peanut butter: Lay out tortillas and spread 1 tbsp peanut butter on each.
2. Add banana: Peel and slice banana; place slices down the center of each tortilla.
3. Add toppings: Drizzle with honey or maple syrup, and sprinkle on granola or dried fruit, if using.
4. Wrap it up: Fold in the sides, then roll up tightly (like a burrito).
5. Serve: Enjoy immediately or wrap in foil for later on the trail.

Tips & Variations

• No peanut butter? Try sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.
• Make it dessert: Add a few chocolate chips or a dusting of cinnamon.
• Go savory: Use hummus and sliced veggies instead of peanut butter and banana.

“These wraps are perfect for breakfast, a quick snack, or a sweet treat after a day on the trail.”

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a cup of camp coffee or tea for a satisfying breakfast.
• Cut into pinwheels for a fun and portable snack for kids.
• Serve as a simple dessert with a side of fresh berries.

More Vegetarian Camping Inspiration

If you love these budget-friendly ideas, you might also enjoy:

• Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food
• Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe
• Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes

Conclusion

Camping doesn’t have to mean sacrificing good food or spending a fortune. With these cheap vegetarian camping recipes, you’ll enjoy healthy, hearty, and delicious meals that fuel your adventures and make the most of your time outdoors.

Each recipe is designed to be as flexible as your plans—swap in what you have, use up leftover veggies, and make it your own. Whether you’re road-tripping, backpacking, or just enjoying a weekend at your favorite campsite, these recipes will keep you satisfied and energized.

So pack your pot, grab your ingredients, and get ready for some seriously tasty campfire cooking!

For more creative outdoor eats, don’t forget to check out some of my other favorites like Lemon Crackers Recipe, Harvest Hash Recipe, and Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes. Happy camping and happy eating!

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