Packit Gourmet

Packit Gourmet is a family owned and operated company in Austin, Texas. Not only do these folks create some fantastic meals for the outdoor crowd, but they also do it in style. Packaging is re-used and recycled when possible, organic natural ingredients are used when available, and their facility is 100% wind powered through the city of Austin. They hand package their products in a commercially certified kitchen in a way to minimize the packed weight of their meals. Ingredients are personally selected for high quality. Packit Gourmet is also partnered with the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics to help preserve our natural resources.

After seeing raving reviews of the meals offered by Packit Gourmet, I contacted them to see about getting a few samples for review. They graciously offered to send some and asked what I would like to try. I requested they select meals that were liked by themselves or their customers. I thought that passing the menu to someone else would be the best way to get an unbiased review. Texas State Fair Chili, West Memphis Grits Soufflé, Kickin’ Chicken Hot Wings Wrap, and Eat a Peach fruit smoothie arrived at my house a short time later. Preparation was done at home so that my family could sample, and besides, everyone knows that once hunger sets in, nearly anything tastes good on the trail.

Texas State Fair Chili was the first meal we tried. In short, I loved it. Meat and beans with smoked chili peppers cooked up for a great bowl of chili. Portion size is dead on for me and I’m a bigger guy. Separate pouches of Texas Pete’s hot sauce, corn chips, and cheese are included so you can customize your meal. You can cook the chili in the included bag or in a pot. The only issue I had was getting the beans to fully re-hydrate. With a little time, they softened up. My wife’s comment was, “This is good. I’d be all about this at the end of the day on the trail!”

The next morning, I moved on to West Memphis Grits Soufflé. Luckily for me, my wife was on the phone with her parents at the time. I’m not a huge fan of grits, but I liked these. They had a creamy texture, and the jalapeno cheddar jack cheese really made its presence known. Serving size was spot on again. These grits were a bit spicy. Ok with me, but I know some who would prefer less spice.

Later, I mixed up the Eat a Peach fruit smoothie. Real chunks of peach mixed with whey protein and yogurt made a nice breakfast shake. Flavor was good, but I may have added a bit too much water. Still, this would make a great breakfast and a nice different flavor while out in the woods.

Lastly, we made the Kickin’ Chicken Hot Wings Wrap. You don’t even have to boil water for this meal. Just add some cool water and wait 15 minutes. A couple packets of hot sauce are included so you can customize as you like. Everything re-hydrated well. The texture and flavor were superb. Portion size is generous for one. My wife and daughter shared with me. My wife commented, “This is good, and I don’t eat left over chicken.” You’ll need to supply your own bread/tortilla.

The prices on the meals ranged from about $4.50 to $7.50. Not every backpacking meal out there has come across my plate, but these are among the best that I have eaten. I can’t recommend Packit Gourmet highly enough. On their website you can find dozens of prepared meals, cookware, individual ingredients and tips on meal prep. Click here to visit PackitGourmet.com.

– Mark