When I first tried this out on a solo tramp to Mitre Flats Hut, one of my hut mates said with undisguised envy, “Wow, Lachlan’s got real food!” as they tucked into a somewhat sorry-looking packet of de-hy.
And I can’t lie. Red meat is a great first-night option—it’ll be fine in your pack for a day—and this stir-fry is a delicious, simple one-pot meal. It’s tasty and filling on its own, so there’s no need to worry about serving it with rice or noodles if you’re looking to minimise weight or fuss.
The measurements below are approximate, but these portions would easily keep a hungry tramper going for at least one meal.
Ingredients
- 200g of beef
- ½ carrot, sliced
- 50g green beans
- ½ courgette, sliced
- ½ onion, sliced
- 1 sachet of stir-fry sauce (I used Lee Kum Kee)
- Cooking oil
Tip: You may find it easier to dice the beef and drizzle in cooking oil at home.
Method
- Chop the vegetables and keep these to hand.
- Fire up the stove and put the oil and meat in your billy and pop the lid on. It won’t take long for the beef to cook.
- Add all the vegetables as soon as the diced beef starts to brown.
- When the vegetables start to look done, add the stir-fry sauce and simmer lightly for another 1-2 minutes.
- Serve and enjoy!
A gluten-free version is possible; for example, by using GF flour and soy sauce.
Frontcountry food assessment
Portable factor: Moderate. I transported the oiled meat in one container, double sealed with a ziplocked bag, and packed the vegetables separately.
Faff factor: Couldn’t be easier, really. Cooking time was surprisingly quick—I think I had the stove on for less than 10 minutes total. The billy may require a good scrub afterwards to remove any meat juices or scraps that have stuck to the bottom. After all, nobody wants a beef-flavoured herbal tea after dinner!
Gourmet factor: 5/5