**Hardtack: The Essential Survival Bread**
Hardtack is a simple yet essential survival bread that has been a staple for centuries. Made from a mixture of flour, water, and salt, this unleavened bread is incredibly durable and can be stored for long periods of time without spoiling. Its unique texture and long shelf life make it an ideal choice for camping, backpacking, and emergency situations. This article provides a comprehensive guide to making hardtack, including two variations: a traditional recipe and a modern version with added ingredients for flavor and nutrition. Whether you're preparing for an outdoor adventure or simply want to learn about this fascinating historical bread, this article has everything you need to know.
SWEDISH HARD TACK
Very nice with butter or cheese. Biscuit-like (crunchy) and sweet. Also called knackebrod.
Provided by twistedsister
Categories Appetizers and Snacks Snacks Cracker Recipes
Time 1h
Yield 12
Number Of Ingredients 6
Steps:
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
- Sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt into a large bowl. Rub in the shortening until the mixture appears sandy. Stir in the buttermilk until the dough holds together. Roll out on a lightly floured surface to 1/8-inch thick. Cut into 4-inch squares, then cut each square diagonally into triangles, and prick with a fork.
- Bake the triangles in preheated oven on ungreased cookie sheets until dry and lightly browned, about 10 minutes.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 196.4 calories, Carbohydrate 27 g, Cholesterol 21.2 mg, Fat 8.1 g, Fiber 0.8 g, Protein 3.7 g, SaturatedFat 5 g, Sodium 128.9 mg, Sugar 5.2 g
HARD TACK
Steps:
- Mix all, except 3/4 C flour. Let the dough sit for 15-20 minutes. Roll a small amount thinly onto a floured board, using a pegged rolling pin. Bake at 375 for 12 minutes or until slightly browned.
Tips:
- Use fresh ingredients: The fresher the ingredients, the better the hardtack will taste. If possible, use organic or locally-sourced ingredients.
- Measure your ingredients accurately: This is important for any recipe, but it is especially important for hardtack, as the proportions of the ingredients need to be precise in order for the hardtack to turn out correctly.
- Mix the dough thoroughly: Be sure to mix the dough until it is smooth and well-combined. If the dough is not mixed thoroughly, it will be difficult to roll out and will not bake evenly.
- Roll the dough out evenly: The dough should be rolled out to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. If the dough is too thick, it will not bake through properly. If the dough is too thin, it will be too fragile.
- Bake the hardtack at a low temperature: The hardtack should be baked at a low temperature (250 degrees Fahrenheit) for a long period of time (about 2 hours). This will help to ensure that the hardtack is dry and crispy.
- Store the hardtack in an airtight container: Hardtack can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 months.
Conclusion:
Hardtack is a simple and versatile food that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. It can be eaten plain, dipped in soup or stew, or used as a breadcrumb substitute. Hardtack is also a great addition to emergency preparedness kits, as it is shelf-stable and nutritious. With a little planning and effort, you can easily make your own hardtack at home.
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