OutDoor Pantry Tex Mex Chili

It’s not quite real chili, but it’s real good

This is the final meal from Outdoor Pantry that I had on my last hike. And taste-wise, it’s another winner. But that comes with a couple of caveats.

This meal is described on the Outdoor Pantry website as being “incredibly hearty” and having “some kick.” True on the first, not so much on the second. I found that it needed some heat, and fortunately one of my sons gifted me some Taco Bell Fire Sauce from his secret stash to bring with me. Some Tapatio would’ve been even better.

It’s also not the most sexy looking meal. I thought it looked like a slurry once it was reheated, and I think that’s because there’s pinto bean flakes and small pieces of Mexican cheese that melt into the mixture. Honestly, it ended up reminding me of my wife’s taco soup. But it did taste almost as good.

The star ingredient is chunks of freeze-dried tomato. These are really tangy, and I wish they’d used more. The ground hamburger pellets are large, but they have a great taste and texture, so don’t be put off by that. The chili seasoning, aside from a lack of heat, was on point.

Each 4 oz. pouch costs $8.95 and supplies 400 calories. I doubled up, and it was a very filling and satisfying meal.

I think one pouch with a healthy addition of Fritos would make a solid dinner, and be less expensive. That’s what I plan to do next time.

It’s hard to do chili wrong, but this is a better than average effort for sure, and a little different from some of other chili offerings out there. Just remember, bring Fritos and hot sauce.

Grade: B