Hardtack
Hardtack is more than just a simple biscuit—it’s a steadfast companion that has traveled through the annals of history alongside humanity’s bravest explorers, seafarers, and soldiers. From the days of ancient Egypt, where it sustained sailors on the Nile, to the ranks of the Roman legions marching across vast empires, hardtack has been a reliable source of sustenance.
During the tumultuous Middle Ages, soldiers in battle relied on these resilient crackers, known by various names such as sea biscuit or ship’s biscuit, as their unyielding ally in the face of hunger. Hardtack’s legacy continued to expand, becoming a staple aboard naval vessels across the globe, ensuring that seafarers had a durable food supply on long voyages.
In the American Civil War, hardtack was indispensable for soldiers on both sides, often softened in coffee or soup to make it more palatable. Fast forward to the 20th and 21st centuries, this hardy bread earned the moniker “pilot bread” as it was carried by aviators, proving its worth in the skies.
In a world where modern conveniences might fail, hardtack shines as a beacon of survival. Its incredible durability allows it to last for years when kept dry, outlasting the need for electricity or refrigeration. With just a few simple ingredients—flour, water, and a pinch of salt—anyone can whip up this life-sustaining biscuit.
When you need to bug out, hardtack’s lightweight and compact nature makes it an ideal companion. You can carry enough to sustain yourself without being weighed down, and its versatility in use means you can turn it into a variety of meals.
This recipe makes approximately nine squares, each about 3″x3″. On average, one or two squares would be served per person, making this batch capable of feeding 4 to 9 people.
Recipe for nine squares:
- 2 cups of flour (use white or whole wheat)
- ½ teaspoon of salt
- ½ to ¾ cup of water
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees
- Mix the flour and the salt up in a bowl or container
- Mix water into the flour and salt until you make dough
- Roll your dough onto a hard surface that has been pre-floured
- Get the dough good and floury to where it won’t stick
- Cut this dough into squares about 3”x3”
- Use a chopstick or other similar object to poke holes in each of the nine squares
- Poke anywhere from 9-15 holes in each 3”x3” square
- Place the squares on a baking sheet, ungreased
- Bake for a half hour at 375 degrees, turn it over and bake on the other side for a half hour
- If it is not completely dry or hard, keep baking each side
Once your hardtack emerges from the oven, let it cool completely. If you store it in an airtight container, it can last for many months, even years, preserving its legacy as an enduring survival food. Transform your Hardtack into a culinary delight:
- Soak and Savor: To enjoy hardtack without risking your dental health, soak it in water, coffee, broth, or soup until it softens up. This simple trick makes it much more palatable.
- Fry for Flavor: For a delicious twist, pan fry your hardtack. Many people love frying it in bacon grease, adding a rich, savory taste.
- Perfect Pairing: Hardtack pairs wonderfully with soups and stews, complementing the hearty flavors and providing a satisfying crunch.
When times are tough or you’re in an emergency or survival situation, hardtack stands as a reliable ration. While it may not earn a Michelin star, this humble bread will keep you alive and well when you need it most. Bon appétit, adventurer!