13 Survival Superfoods You Can Grow At Home

Estimated reading time: 13 minutes

It took one good snowstorm and one long power outage for me to realize that I needed to be more prepared for emergencies. After that, I started to stock up on cheap foods: rice, spaghetti, as well as some survival rations. But what I realized is that although survival food will definitely help you survive, it isn’t necessarily healthy for you.

While I do have a good stash of these items on hand, I also look to balance them with healthy, survival superfoods. Long-term health in an emergency is just as important to survival as having easily accessible, emergency food.

If you are looking for some good preps, some survival food to keep on hand, check out some of these survival superfoods you should grow and stockpile. 

Apples

Apples are chock full of Vitamin C, Vitamin K, fiber, and healthy carbs. Any kind of apples can store for 3 months or more if stored properly, but thicker-skinned apples, such as Jonathans, seem to last the longest. Wrap apples individually in newspaper and store in a cardboard box in the basement or unheated porch, so long as they don’t freeze. Do not store apples in the same room as potatoes because potatoes cause them to spoil faster. 

Apples with bruises can’t be stored long term, but they can be made into apple pie filling, which can be canned, or even hard cider or vinegar. If you don’t have a place to store fresh apples, you can purchase frozen apple slices or even freeze-dried apple slices to stockpile.

More Info: How to Grow an Apple Tree from Seed

Beans

Beans are a great source of protein, calories, and fiber. You can purchase dried beans very inexpensively and stockpile them in your prepper pantry. Or you can grow them yourself and dry them to store or grow. Once your beans are dried, put them in a glass container with a lid or seal them into mylar bags. Keep them in a cool dry place and they will last at least one year and even up to 30 years. 

If winter goes long and you need fresh vegetables, beans can be sprouted and eaten as bean shoots for some extra nutrition. Or you can grind them into flour for baking, cook them in soups, or use them in any number of recipes. 

More Info: How to Grow Beans

Berries

Summer is a great time to eat fresh berries such as blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries. Wild raspberries grow all around my yard and taste delicious. Berries are full of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals which promote good health and may prevent cancer. Berries can easily be frozen for future use or made into preserves and canned. 

More Info: How to Grow and Harvest Blueberries

Garlic

Garlic is a powerful survival superfood. It has antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties, plus it helps boost your immune system, lowers blood pressure, and may even help reduce cholesterol levels. In an emergency, staying healthy and avoiding illness is just as important as having enough calories.

Garlic is incredibly easy to grow. In the fall, separate a bulb into cloves and plant them pointy side up about 2 inches deep. Cover with mulch and let nature do its work over the winter. Come spring, you’ll see shoots emerge, and by summer, you’ll be harvesting full bulbs.

After harvest, allow the bulbs to cure for a couple of weeks in a well-ventilated space. Properly cured garlic can last for 6 months or longer when stored in a cool, dry location.

If you don’t have room to grow garlic, you can also stockpile dehydrated garlic or garlic powder, both of which store well and keep their nutritional benefits.

More Info: How to Grow and Care for Garlic

Kale

Kale is a great source of vitamins and minerals. You can purchase kale chips to stockpile, or you can grow a kale crop late in the season with the intention of overwintering it for healthy and hearty winter eating. Kale loves to be grown in cool weather. Starting it in late July means that it will mature by the first frost date.

Cold hardy kale can survive harsh winters in a greenhouse, or even covered over with a layer of straw or a row cover. More than once, I’ve dug kale out from under the snow to taste a delicious, sweet green. Kale will grow very slowly over the winter, but it will stay fresh and edible even in harsh conditions. A hard frost will make kale sweeter. 

More Info: Growing Kale

Lentils

Lentils are another great plant-based protein option that’s perfect for long-term storage. They’re loaded with protein, fiber, iron, folate, and other nutrients that are crucial during stressful times when you may not have access to fresh meat or vegetables.

You can buy dried lentils in bulk and store them in sealed containers or mylar bags with oxygen absorbers. Properly stored, lentils can last up to 10 years or more. Lentils cook quickly compared to other dried legumes, making them a convenient food source when fuel is limited. You can add them to soups, stews, or sprout them for fresh greens in the winter.

Lentils are also fairly easy to grow if you want to produce your own supply, though they do best in cooler climates and well-drained soil.

More Info: How to Grow and Care for Lentils

Peanuts

Peanuts are a fantastic source of protein, healthy fats, and calories—making them an excellent addition to any prepper pantry. They also contain magnesium, folate, Vitamin E, and resveratrol, which support heart health and may help lower inflammation. In an emergency, high-calorie, nutrient-dense foods like peanuts are especially valuable.

If you live in a warm climate, peanuts are fairly easy to grow. Plant raw, unsalted peanuts (still in their shells) after the last frost. They need sandy, well-drained soil and about 120-150 days to mature. As the plant grows, small yellow flowers will appear and eventually push into the soil where the peanuts develop underground. Harvest your peanuts once the leaves start to yellow. Gently pull up the whole plant and hang it to dry for a few weeks in a well-ventilated area.

After curing, remove the peanuts from the plant. You can roast them in the oven for long-term storage or keep them raw and store them in airtight containers in a cool, dry place. Properly stored, raw peanuts can last up to a year, while roasted peanuts should be used within 6 months for best quality. You can also grind peanuts into peanut butter, which stores well unopened and adds variety to your emergency food options.

More Info: How to Grow Peanuts

Spinach

Spinach is a fantastic cool-weather crop that’s loaded with iron, calcium, Vitamin K, Vitamin A, folate, and antioxidants. In an emergency, having access to fresh greens like spinach helps round out your nutrition and prevent deficiencies. Spinach grows quickly and can be harvested multiple times throughout the season using the “cut and come again” method.

You can start spinach early in the spring or late summer for a fall harvest. It can even survive light frosts, which makes it a reliable source of fresh food late into the season. Spinach does well in raised beds, containers, or traditional garden plots. Once harvested, you can eat it fresh, freeze it, or dehydrate it for long-term storage.

If you don’t have much space, spinach also grows well indoors under grow lights, giving you a year-round source of vitamins during power outages or harsh winters.

More Info: How to Plant and Grow Spinach

Sprouts

One concern in the wintertime is getting enough fresh vegetables, especially greens. Sprouts don’t need a lot of sunlight, they grow quickly, and they are jam-packed with nutrients. Sprouts provide Vitamins A, B, C, and E. They increase cell regeneration and protect your body from diseases.

Sprouts can’t really be stockpiled, but you can stockpile seeds to use for sprouting. Soak seeds overnight, then allow them to sprout on your countertop for two to five days and enjoy these tiny nutritional powerhouses.  

More Info: The Ultimate Guide to Growing Sprouts

Sunflower Seeds

Sunflowers are hardy and easy to grow and produce a delicious and edible seed. The seeds are full of healthy fat, protein, calories, Vitamin B, Vitamin E, tryptophan, and folate. You can eat them, press them into oil for cooking, or save them to plant again. 

Once your sunflower heads are starting to hang down, cut them off at the stalk and hang them upside down to finish drying. Carefully scrape all of the seeds out of the head and soak them in water overnight. Dry your seeds in the oven for half an hour at 325 degrees F. Store them in a glass jar in a cool, dry place. Sunflower seeds can last up to a year in the refrigerator.

More Info: How to Grow Sunflowers

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are high in Vitamin A, may help prevent cancer, and keep blood pressure low. Sweet potatoes are low on the glycemic index, making them a better choice for people with diabetes than white potatoes. These heart-healthy tubers are easy to grow and store well.  

To grow sweet potatoes, cut a sweet potato in half and suspend the cut area in water with a couple of toothpicks. In a few weeks, it will sprout, and each sprout is called a slip. Gently pull off the slips and put them in water until they root. Once the slips are rooted, you can plant them in the garden. You’ll want to plant them in loose soil mixed with a bit of compost. 

Harvest your sweet potatoes in the fall, right before frost. Carefully dig them up with a broadfork so you don’t bruise or cut the tubers. You’ll need to cure your sweet potatoes for 5 to 7 days at 90 degrees F and 85 percent humidity.

You can find more ways to cure and store sweet potatoes here. Stored correctly, they should last well into winter, giving you a stockpile of healthy food. 

At any point, you can harvest and eat sweet potato leaves. Since they tend to be better, boiling them lightly is recommended. You can sauté them with onions or put them in a recipe in place of kale or spinach. 

More Info: How to Grow Sweet Potatoes

Tomatoes

Who doesn’t love a fresh, juicy tomato still warm from the garden? These fruits are full of lycopene, Vitamin C, and Vitamin A. You can grow them in your garden for fresh eating, then you can or freeze the extras for use in sauces and soups. 

If you don’t have the equipment to can tomatoes, you can buy already-canned tomatoes very inexpensively. Canned tomatoes will taste best if used by 18 to 24 months. However, they will likely stay safe enough to eat for even longer. This is a great food to grow and stockpile. 

More Info: How to Grow Tomatoes

Winter Squash

If you have the space in your garden, winter squash is a great food to grow and store. Winter squash is a nutrient-dense food providing B vitamins, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Calcium, Vitamin E, magnesium, and Omega 3s.

There are several varieties of winter squash, including hubbard, banana, acorn, butternut, and sweetmeat. These large, thick-rind squashes can last up to 6 months when properly cured and stored.  They are easy to grow and easy to store. The downside of growing winter squash is that they take a long time to grow and mature and require a lot of space. 

Plant winter squash in small hills like you would any squash. When they are ready for harvest in the fall, allow them to cure for ten to fourteen days. Elevate then on a mesh screen in a warm room with good airflow for proper curing. Once your squash are cured, you can store them in a cool dry place for months as long as the humidity does not get too high.

More Info: How to Grow Winter Squash

Other Foods

While you can purchase or grow and stockpile all of those foods, there are a few more nutritional foods you might consider keeping on your homestead for everyday use and to be prepared for emergencies.

For example, quail are an easy to grow source of protein. You can keep them indoors in a small cage if necessary. You can eat quail eggs and any extra roosters will make an excellent source of meat. If needed, you could feed them on food scraps for the winter. 

Goats can be raised for milk or meat, giving you another source of healthy food on your homestead that is always available, in emergencies or not. Rabbits can be a source of protein and their manure is great fertilizer for your prepper garden. Putting a few ‘prep-steading’ systems in place that are simple and easy will help make your food stockpile more nutritious and delicious. 

Regularly growing, preserving, and eating your own food helps you to be prepared for when you can’t make it to the grocery store. With a mix of emergency rations, prep-steading meals, and homegrown preserved food, you’ll be ready for a variety of emergencies with healthy, simple food. 

You May Also Like:

• 11 Healthy Foods That Will Outlast You
• 13 Survival Crops To Grow After The Apocalypse
• Which Plants Produce the Most Calories?
• How to Grow Sweet Potatoes
• How to Grow an Apple Tree from Seed

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40 Things You Can Do With Your Extra Cherry Tomatoes

Do you love cherry tomatoes? Me too! If you are like me and countless other gardeners, you probably grow your own. Nothing is better than a perfectly ripe cherry tomato that’s still warm from the sun. But sometimes it’s possible to have too much of a good thing. It rarely fails that, no matter how ... Read more

40 Things You Can Do With Your Extra Cherry Tomatoes can be read in full at New Life On A Homestead- Be sure to check it out!

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Food Storage Lessons From WWII

When it comes to food storage, we can learn a lot from the lessons of WWII. During WWII, people had to survive on war rations, which made feeding a large family very difficult, especially if you were on a tight budget. Despite these difficult times, people endured, and today, preppers can learn important food storage lessons from the people who lived through WWII.

War Rationing

Can you imagine feeding a family of 6 during war rationing in the 1940s?  Back then, prepping wasn’t something that was talked about very much, but many people did it without even thinking about it. And, those who didn’t have food stocked up had to make do with very little.

In the United States, the government began rationing certain foods in May of 1942. They began by rationing sugar, then coffee, and by March of the following year, meats, fats, canned fish, cheese, and canned milk were all added to the list. 

With war rationing used at that time, they had a point system, and you could only get a certain amount of points for various food items. When you used all your points for say meat, you couldn’t get any more until the following month.

Food Storage Lessons From WWII That Are Still Useful Today

We can learn a lot from history, and it can help us to be better prepared for the future. Here are just a few food storage lessons from WWII that are still useful today:

Canned Goods Are Your Friend

Canned fruits and vegetables, as well as canned meats, were a staple of the WWII diet. They are shelf-stable and easy to store, making them ideal for long-term food storage. On most of these cans, you will notice that the USDA recommends its shelf life right around 2 to 5 years, but if you store it right, it can last even longer. Here are the Canned Foods I Highly Recommend You Store.

I’ve talked about case lot sales a number of times. Mark and I rely a lot on those sales, and they seem to come to our local stores most often in the fall. We love to stock up on soups especially, but also get cases of corn, beans, peas, and other veggies, along with a variety of fruits. I use cream of chicken soup in so many recipes! My preferred brand is Campbells, you just can’t go wrong with their quality and competitive pricing.

We haven’t made a habit of buying many canned types of meat, but I do like the canned chicken breast and tuna from Costco. During the summer we’ll make lots of sandwiches and make either tuna salad or chicken salad mixtures. Top that off with fresh tomatoes from our garden and you’re in canned meat heaven.

Store What You Eat and Eat What You Store

This is one of the most important food storage lessons that we can learn. If you store any foods that you don’t like to eat, then you’ll be less likely to eat them in an emergency too. And, if you only eat foods that you have stored and they aren’t your favorites, you’ll get tired of them fast, or you’ll open them up but let them go to waste because family members don’t like them

I recommend storing a variety of food items that you enjoy eating. This way, you’ll be more likely to eat them in an emergency and you won’t get bored with them as quickly or see food spoil in the fridge.

In addition, it’s important to store nutrient-rich foods. This will help ensure that you’re getting the nutrition your body needs in case of an emergency. Some good examples of nutrient-rich foods include fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, and whole grains.

Store Food in a Cool, Dark Place

When storing your food, it’s important to keep it in a cool, dark place whenever possible. This will help preserve its quality and extend its shelf life. Food that is stored in higher temperatures or humid environments can spoil much faster. Food that is stored in airtight containers and kept in a cool, dry place will last for many months, if not years.

Properly Store Your Food

You want to store your food so that you keep oxygen and moisture out, which can cause your food to spoil. For example, store flour in sturdy metal cans, or sealed containers with oxygen absorbers to keep insects like weevils out. Beans, rice, and pasta need to be stored in airtight containers. You can store dried food in Mylar bags, and then keep the bags in sealed containers.

Invest in Items to Barter

During WWII, it wasn’t just about food either. There were rations on other items such as gas, tires, automobiles, and other necessities.  If you have a large family, you would benefit from stocking up on other supplies you can barter with like alcohol, tools, clothes, and even skills we all need from time to time. What could be bartered back then may not be what is useful today, but there certainly are many similarities to the basic staple we need from generation to generation. Be sure to check out these 50 Items You Need in Order to Barter, in today’s world.

Stock Up On Other Essentials

You will also need to stock up on other essentials like prescription medication, pet food, and cleaning supplies. If a situation ever arises where you can’t leave your home, you’ll be happy you have as many items as you can store and continue using them on a daily basis. Paper products are critical because we will use less water. Please stock paper plates, cups, paper towels, and garbage bags.

Label Food Storage Containers

It’s important to label food storage containers with the date the food was packaged. This will help you keep track of how long the food has been stored. If you can’t tell what’s inside the container, be sure to label that information too.

It’s also important to rotate your food supply regularly so that it doesn’t go bad. Try to use the oldest food first, and then replace it with fresh food. This will help you to keep your food storage fresh and avoid wasting any food, and the related money used to buy them.

Every few months, check the expiration dates on your food and put those items with pending expiration dates on the menu. If you have items that have expired, consider throwing them away so you don’t get sick from eating them. We used to use the “smell” test to see if food could still be eaten. Those expiration dates are there for a reason, so eat them at your own risk! When you buy new food, put it at the back of your pantry so that you’ll use the older food first. This way, nothing should go to waste.

These are 2-gallon buckets with vinyl lettering. I buy my 2-Gallon Buckets from Pleasant Hill Grain. Gamma Lids for 2-Gallon Buckets

Make a Food Plan

It’s important to have a plan for what you’re going to eat in case of an emergency. This will help you to make sure that you have enough food to last, and that you’re not eating the same thing every day. When you make your food plan, try to include foods that are high in protein and calories, so that you’ll be able to sustain yourself for a longer period of time.

Get the kids involved in making the plan so they have a vested interest in not only having enough as they grow older but there will be items on the shelves that they like.

Store Food in Multiple Locations

If something happens and you can’t get to your food storage, it’s important to have food stored in multiple locations. This will help ensure that you have access to food no matter what. Maybe you can partner with good friends and family members to help store each other’s food. That way, in most cases, the food will be available in time of need. It would be good to have that extra food a reasonable distance away so the chances of the emergence affecting all parties involved are minimal.

Keep a 72-Hour Kit

In case of an emergency, it’s important to have a 72-hour kit. This kit should include enough food and supplies for you to survive for 72 hours. Be sure to include things like water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, and a first aid kit. 72-hour kits are good if you have to bug out. It ensures you have food, water, and necessities while you are on the road. You should have a kit for every member of your household.

Don’t forget any special issue items for your kids and any elder members of your family. Also, those pets need to be looked after too. Make sure your 72-hour kits are located so everyone knows where they are and as easily accessible as possible. You don’t want to be looking all over for them or have them in the attic where they’ll be tough to get to in a rush.

Keep Your Stockpile a Secret

If you have a stockpile of food, it’s important to keep it a secret. If people know you have food, they may try to take it from you. It’s also important to store your food in a safe place where it’s hard to locate for those unfamiliar with your home’s layout.

If your neighbors come and ask for help in a survival situation, you can give what you have to spare, but don’t talk about your stockpile with strangers, and don’t let on how much you actually have with anyone but family members you can trust. You don’t want those who didn’t prepare to loot your house.

Grow Your Own Food If You Can

One of the best food storage lessons of WWII is that you can’t rely on the stores and government to get the food and supplies that you need. When it comes to taking care of your family, one of the best things you can do is have a self-sufficient garden.

Even if you don’t have a lot of space, you can plant a garden in containers or raised beds. You can also grow food indoors by using hydroponics or aquaponics. Learn as much as you can about growing your own food and put it into practice. It will take some effort, but it will be worth it in the long run.

Be Prepared to Go Without

Although it’s not ideal, sometimes you may need to go without as much food as you’re used to. During WWII, there were times when people went without food for days at a time. If this happens, you’ll be glad you stocked up on non-food items like water, batteries, and candles so you can still survive as long as possible.

Food Storage Lessons From WWII

Final Word

These WWII lessons have taught us that we never know when there won’t be enough to go around. The best thing we can do is start prepping now before a war or another emergency happens that could prompt some food rationing to take place. History is there for us to learn from so that we are best prepared in case a similar situation confronts us down the road, but only if we act now and not wait until it’s too late! May God Bless this world, Linda

Copyright Images: WWII Ration Book Depositphotos_95165696_S

The post Food Storage Lessons From WWII appeared first on Food Storage Moms.

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Emergency Power Supply: Backup When the Grid Goes Dark

When the grid dies, whether from storms, cyber-attacks, or infrastructure failure, having a reliable emergency power supply (EPS) isn’t just handy: it can save lives, protect valuables, and keep your household running. Let’s break it down. Our power grid is more fragile than most people realize. Between aging infrastructure, supply chain vulnerabilities, and increasing weather […]

The post Emergency Power Supply: Backup When the Grid Goes Dark appeared first on Ask a Prepper.

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Cooking Cheap And Nutritional Meals From Your Survival Pantry

You’ve stockpiled beans, rice, and canned goods—the foundation of every smart prepper’s cheap and nutritious meals plan. Maybe you’ve even added powdered milk, a few spices, or those bulky #10 cans of freeze-dried veggies from Mountain House. But here’s the hard truth: If your survival meals taste like soggy cardboard, you’ll crack faster than a ... Read more...

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You Caught a Looter on Your Property. Now What?

SHTF scenarios often lead to overwhelmed or collapsed law enforcement, giving freedom to criminals and looters, who exploit the situation to their advantage. Whether you plan to bug out or bug in, the possibility of looters coming to your property must be considered. In a SHTF scenario like this, you may find that you caught […]

The post You Caught a Looter on Your Property. Now What? appeared first on Ask a Prepper.

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Chicken Salad Recipe

I’ve been wanting to share my chicken salad recipe with you again. I’m updating this 2016 recipe because it needed some revisions. I’m making this for my family on July 4th, so if you want to make it for the holiday, you have the recipe ready.

This recipe features tender chicken pieces, sliced red grapes, chopped green onions, chopped celery, finely chopped apples, and dill weed, making it perfect for everyone.

Here’s the deal: we can buy chicken salad at the grocery store deli section, Costco, and even Sam’s Club. But it’s not as fresh, and with this recipe, we know exactly what we’re eating. If desired, you can modify the recipe to suit your family’s tastes; everyone will love it.

We boiled some chicken tenderloins, let them cool, and placed them in the mixer to shred the chicken pieces into the perfect size and texture for a chicken salad.

What I love about chicken salad is that you never know what you’ll get when someone makes it. It can be ground-cooked chicken or big chicken pieces, and it can be full of onions, nuts, craisins, or even raisins.

When you make this salad, the sky is the limit. Everyone has their favorite way of making it, and I love hearing how others put theirs together. Please share your add-ons; I love learning new ideas.

Items You May Need In Your Kitchen:

• Kitchen Aid Mixer (to shred chicken or chop the chicken with a knife)
• Mixing Bowls
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Chicken Salad Ingredients

• Chicken (I used rotisserie chicken): I love to use a rotisserie chicken that can be purchased at the store. I usually buy packages at Costco. It’s cooked and has a delicious roasted flavor! It’s ready to be cut up into bite-sized pieces or shredded! Your own cooked chicken can also be used. An excellent source of protein and calcium!
• Grapes: A berry fruit grown on a flowering woody vine. They add a deliciously bitter and sweet crunch to this salad recipe! A great source of fiber and potassium.
• Celery is a refreshingly crisp, light, and delicious veggie! It is high in antioxidants, and the fiber it contains is great for the digestive and cardiovascular systems.
• Dill Weed is my secret ingredient! The weed portion of the dill plant is comprised of fern-like leaves and stems. It has a mild, grasslike flavor with a lemony tang.
• Apples: This recipe works great with any apple variety. It is high in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants.
• Green Onions: Green onions or “scallions” are typically named to describe a long, thin, tubular edible plant with an oniony flavor.
• Mayonnaise: Also known as “mayo.” A thick and creamy sour dressing made of eggs, oil, vinegar, or lemon juice.
• Salt and Pepper: Both spices add flavor and help bring all the flavors together.

Chicken Salad Recipe

Step One: Gather the Ingredients

Gather the ingredients so you’re ready to make this recipe. Do you love to use mayo or is Miracle Whip your choice when you make chicken salad?

Step Two: Shred The Cooked Chicken

One thing I want to share is a picture of me “shredding” the chicken in my Kitchen Aid mixer using the wire whip. When using this mixer, you can shred your cooked chicken pieces in minutes, literally. It’s almost magical—it’s so fast! Today, I used the rotisserie chicken from Costco in a package. I love the convenience of those chicken pieces off the bones.

Step Three: Combine Ingredients

Combine the cooked, shredded chicken, chopped apple, celery, green onion, and sliced red grapes.

Step Three: Make The Dressing

Grab a small mixing bowl, and combine the mayo or Miracle Whip with the dill weed, salt, and pepper until thoroughly mixed. I call this the “chicken salad dressing.”

Step Four: Scoop The Dressing Onto the Salad

Scoop the “chicken salad dressing” over the chicken mixture. Stir well.

Finished Product

Serve on a bed of lettuce or a roll/croissant. We love these sandwiches!

Chicken Salad Recipe

Print

Chicken Salad Recipe

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Prep Time 30 minutes minutes

Cook Time 0 minutes minutes

Total Time 30 minutes minutes

Servings 6 people

Author Linda Loosli

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked shredded chicken breasts
• 1 cup chopped apple
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 2-3 chopped green onions
• 1 cup sliced red grapes
• 1 cup Mayo or Miracle Whip (I used Mayo)
• 1/2 teaspoon dill weed
• salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

• Shred the cooked chicken.
• Combine the cooked shredded chicken, chopped apple, chopped celery, chopped green onion, and sliced red grapes.
• Mix everything together in a large bowl.
• Grab a small mixing bowl, and combine the mayo or Miracle Whip with the dill weed, salt, and pepper until thoroughly mixed.
• Scoop the "dressing" over the chicken mixture. Stir well. Serve on a bed of lettuce or in a roll/croissant.

How long can I store uncooked chicken?

According to the USDA and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, you can store raw chicken in your refrigerator for 1-2 days. To be safe, this doesn’t matter if the chicken consists of legs, breasts, or a whole chicken.

What is the best way to cook chicken breasts?

I love to use cooked rotisserie chicken for this recipe. It eliminates a step. I am all about simplicity! If you would like to cook your chicken, I recommend cooking it as follows:

Rinse four raw chicken breasts in cold water. Cut off any fat that you observe. In a large pot, bring 6 cups of water to a boil. Once the water boils, turn the heat down to medium. Simmer the chicken breasts for about 45 minutes. Once they have cooked, remove them from the water and allow the chicken to cool before you cut them into bite-sized chunks.

How do I store this chicken salad?

I store mine in Tupperware-type containers in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze it after making it?

I would worry about the mayo, I think fresh is best. You could try it and then see how it turns out.

How long is it safe to store in the refrigerator?

If packaged correctly in airtight containers in the refrigerator, the chicken salad will be good for 2-3 days.

Can I add nuts to this recipe?

We love this recipe with chopped pecans or slivered almonds! Be sure to alert guests to the nuts in case there is an allergy issue with someone.

What about dried cranberries or raisins?

Oh yes, I have made this salad with both of those, and it’s super yummy!

Can I use green grapes?

You can use both green and purple or just green. Either way, it’s delicious.

Can I use fresh dill weed?

Now, we’re talking, I love fresh dill! I didn’t have any today, but I often use fresh dill. It’s like having a slight dill pickle flavor without the overpowering taste of pickles.

Can I add some leftover chopped bacon?

Well, bacon is always a good add-on in my book! It’s yummy with bacon bits.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, I used rotisserie chicken in this recipe. As mentioned, I get it from Costco in packages. It’s deboned and ready to eat since it’s pre-cooked before being packaged. I typically pick up 4-5 packages and freeze them. Then, when I need some chicken, I thaw a package in the refrigerator the day before.

Can I substitute Greek yogurt or sour cream for the mayo or Miracle Whip?

That’s why this recipe is so awesome: almost any ingredient listed is interchangeable! Go for it; it works! This is why I love teaching people to cook from scratch: We can cook and mix outside the box, literally.

Can I add other spices or fresh herbs?

I have added sweet basil, and even freshly chopped basil from my garden. Cilantro is another herb that I love to add to it.

Which apples work best?

Whatever apple variety is in season is the perfect apple to use. I have used Pink Lady, Jazz, Fuji, and Honeycrisp, to name a few. As you know, some apples have a more “crisp” texture, and our family likes those the best. It also seems like the crisp varieties have a slight “tartness” to the flavor, and we enjoy that aspect, too.

In case you missed this post, Apples: Everything You Need To Know

Are there any additional ingredients I can add?

I love the recipe as is! If you are interested in adding any additional ingredients, the following may be good options:

• Dried cranberries (Craisins) or Raisins
• Fresh Basil
• Fresh Cilantro
• Red Onions
• Chopped Walnuts, Pecans, or Almonds
• Bacon
• Dijon Mustard

How can I serve this chicken salad?

This chicken salad is delicious as a low-carb snack on your favorite crackers. It can also be served as a lettuce wrap or as a chicken salad sandwich on your favorite bread, roll, or croissant. I love eating a dollop of it on top of a bed of lettuce! The options are endless!

I have served this at various luncheons, picnics, and family get-togethers. It is always a hit!

Check out these other delicious chicken recipes!

• The Best Sweet & Sour Chicken Salad
• Chinese Chicken Salad
• Poppy Seed Chicken
• The Best Chicken And Broccoli Casserole

Final Word

I hope you enjoyed reading about my chicken salad and that you will give it a try. It is the best chicken salad recipe! Let me know what you add to yours. I love to hear from you. You may also want to try eating this “salad” as a topping on your favorite crackers. We’ve used Triscuit, Wheat Thins, and others. Give it a try. May God bless this world, Linda

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How to manage your resources when bugging in

Like me and other folks out there, you’ve probably got your supplies and you’re ready to lock the door when the brown stuff hits the fan. Perhaps, the world outside is either falling apart or just taking a very bad nap—either way, you’re not leaving.

from Survivopedia

Top 10 Exquisite White Duck Breeds for the Homestead

If poultry to call your own is what you want, but chickens just aren’t your thing, ducks might be the answer. Ducks can provide you with lots of eggs and meat just like chickens, help control pests on your property and around your garden – and, of course, offer lots of entertainment throughout your day! ... Read more

Top 10 Exquisite White Duck Breeds for the Homestead can be read in full at New Life On A Homestead- Be sure to check it out!

from New Life On A Homestead

These Items Will Make You Rich Post-SHTF

When SHTF the concept of currency goes out the window with the rule of law and the comforts of civilization. In times like this, the barter items for SHTF are crucial, and if you need to acquire something, you better have something of value to trade. It can help to keep this strategy in mind […]

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12 Reasons Your Off-Grid Plan Needs a Solar Cooker

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21 Deadly Mistakes New Gun Owners Make

Estimated reading time: 11 minutes

Many of us were raised in a family where hunting and shooting were a family tradition. It’s more than likely that anyone raised around rifles or handguns know the rules that govern gun safety. But as more and more people are turning to arming themselves for reasons ranging from personal security to hunting for the first time, gun safety is sometimes missed, ignored or simply not followed.

The results are often tragic. On average, 1300 children a year die from an accidental gunshot wound. There are just as many tragic accidents when adults have accidentally shot someone because they didn’t follow some of the most basic rules.

If you or someone you know has recently acquired a firearm, it makes a world of sense to stop and understand the importance of gun safety. When you look at some of the gun safety recommendations it’s easy to see that they all just make sense. It’s just a question of understanding them and thinking about why they’re so important.

The rules and gun safety principles outlined here are a collection of recommendations from the NRA and other shooting organizations dedicated to gun safety.

1. Neglecting to take a gun safety course

The store where you purchased your rifle or handgun will often offer gun safety courses or can guide you to where you can find one. Those courses will no doubt cover all of the rules and discipline we’re about to outline, and it will allow you to actually practice what you’ve learned.

There are also online courses but training and gun safety on a gun range is ideal for many.

2. Forgetting to treat all guns as loaded

Many tragic accidents would have been avoided if people knew and practiced this basic rule of gun safety. Until you have personally checked and reassured yourself that the gun is not loaded, that the clip and the chamber is empty – assume it’s loaded and treat it that way.

3. Pointing the gun in a dangerous direction

This usually means you should have the gun pointed towards the ground or upwards towards the sky. The gun pointed to the ground is best, but if you are in a rocky area or an urban area with concrete sidewalks and asphalt roads –pointing it up is the best option to avoid the possibility of a ricochet off a hard surface.

Never, ever point a gun in the direction of anyone in your group or your surroundings. If you do this on a shooting range, it’s quite likely the Range Officer will tell you to leave immediately and you won’t be allowed back. Only point the gun at what you plan to shoot. There are too many examples of when someone has been severely wounded or even killed when a gun was pointed in their direction.

4. Failing to keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot

Some guns have light triggers especially rifles for competitive target shooting. Even a gun with a heavy trigger can accidentally fire following a trip, fall or surprising sound or movement causing you to involuntarily pull the trigger.

If you’ve ever seen a photo of a SWAT team in action, they usually have their trigger finger extended along the side of the trigger rather than on the trigger. Keep your finger off the trigger until you’re ready to shoot.

5. Ignoring what’s happening beyond the target

Guns have an extremely long range, especially rifles. In fact, most rifle rounds have a range measured in miles. It doesn’t matter how good a shot you are, everyone eventually misses. Think about what’s beyond your target. It’s not always possible to see what’s in the distance, especially when you’re hunting, but there are too many stories about errant gunshots killing children in cities.

If you’re not sure what’s beyond your target you shouldn’t take the shot. Here are the average ranges for various firearms and their respective ammunition, and this isn’t about the “effective” range for hunting or competition shooting. It’s about the “maximum” range a bullet can travel and kill any living thing it hits:

CALIBER	MAXIMUM RANGE IN YARDS	MAXIMUM RANGE IN MILES
.22 LR	2000	1 mile
9MM (Glock)	2400	1.3 miles
5.56 NATO	4375	2.5 miles
.308 Winchester	7920	4.5 miles

It can be a bit alarming to learn for the first time that most bullets fired can travel for miles. It’s why many of these rules are so critical to follow.

6. Assuming the safety makes your gun safe

Understanding exactly how to engage and disengage the safety is critical. Understanding how to recognize when it is on or off is just as important. Perhaps the most important thing to remember is that even if you think or know the safety is on, it can malfunction or be only half engaged. Never assume you can break any of the rules of gun safety just because you think the safety will keep you safe.

7. Failing to properly load and unload the gun

This is another reason a gun safety course is so important. If you have just purchased a firearm, the Range Safety Officer can instruct you on the proper way to load and unload.

They’ll also show you how to make sure a round is not still in the firing chamber even though the clip is removed. An improperly loaded gun could misfire or worse. Understand the correct way to load and unload your specific rifle or handgun.

8. Not making sure you are loading the correct ammunition

Buying the wrong ammunition or confusing ammunition from another firearm you own can result in serious damage to the gun, and could cause the bullet to explode in the chamber or jam and shatter the barrel.

One suggestion that often appears is to color code boxes or clips and even mark on the clip what gauge and weapon the ammunition is intended for. If you own more than one firearm this will be a critical and constant practice.

9. Never checking to see if the barrel is clear before shooting

A lot can find its way into the barrel of gun. Dirt, debris, pieces of an errant round. Any debris in the barrel can affect the trajectory of the shot and in rare instances cause the bullet to jam in the barrel or damage the rifling.

What’s critical is to never look down the barrel from the muzzle. Disassemble the weapon and look down the barrel through the breach, or remove the barrel entirely. This should be a standard practice after every use when you have been actively firing, and before you head out for hunting.

10. Neglecting to keep all guns securely locked up and unloaded

This may be one of the most critical gun safety rules, particularly if you have children in your household. This is also a smart security measure in the event of burglary or break-ins.

There are a variety of gun safes that will allow you to safely store your firearms. Some are taller for stacking and storing both rifles and handguns. Others are smaller for handgun storage in a closet or other small area.

There are gun safes intended for travel in a car, and specialized guns safes for ammunition storage. Many of these ammunition storage safes are also fireproof to various degrees. It’s also recommended that ammunition and guns are stored in separate locations.

There are also trigger locks that can make a rifle or handgun impossible to fire without a key to unlock it. If you don’t want to invest in a gun safe of any size, at least buy a trigger lock.

11. Not understanding what to do if your gun fails to fire

This can happen for a variety of reasons. If your gun fails to fire, keep it aimed in the position you intended to fire or point it towards the ground. If the ground has hard surfaces like concrete, stone or asphalt –aim it upwards. Just remember if you fire into the air for any reason, that round is going to come down -somewhere.

The recommendation is to wait 30 seconds for any gun that misfires, and to then carefully unload it and try to remove the misfired round. Discard it safely and stop and think about the rest of the ammunition associated with the non-firing round.

It’s possible that the ammunition was old, damaged by moisture, defective or in some way compromised. One bad bullet may be an indication of problems with the rest of the ammunition in the box so think about the age of the ammo and how it was stored. If in doubt, throw them all out –safely.

Also, double-check the gun. A misfire could also be caused by a problem with the mechanics of the gun or some other maintenance issue. If you're not sure, cease firing and take your gun to a gun smith.

12. Ignoring the importance of cleaning your guns

Every gun should be cleaned after use. There are gun cleaning kits and videos that demonstrate the proper way to clean your particular firearm. Cleaning after every use will ensure your gun is as accurate as possible, and avoid other more serious problems in the future.

13. Not wearing ear and eye protection

You can’t enter a firing range to fire your gun without eye and ear protection. There’s a reason. Guns are loud and over time can cause ear damage. Especially with high-powered rifles that are usually supported by your shoulder with the receiver literally next to your ear.

Eye protection will also prevent any bits of shell casings or other debris from firing from getting into your eyes. And this isn’t just about gun ranges. Some people will wear ear and eye protection even when hunting. And some don't.

14. Not taking the time to understand the mechanics of your firearms

You should be able to disassemble and reassemble any gun you own. You’ll need to do this during routine cleaning but part of gun ownership is the ability to function as a gun mechanic.

You also need to understand all of the basic functions, controls and mechanisms to both accurately and safely shoot. New guns come with a manual outlining many of these details, or you can buy manuals and books with more information about your particular firearm.

15. Neglecting to have your gun serviced regularly

Most of us can’t or don’t have the time to master the craft of gunsmithing. The same applies to the vehicles we drive. Treat your guns the way you treat your vehicles. Understand and appreciate the importance of regular service to get your gun professionally cleaned, tuned-up, and possible repaired in the event of wear or accidental damage.

16. Altering or making modifications to any weapon

If you’re intrigued by additional features that can enhance the operation or impact of your gun, don’t do it yourself. Have it done professionally and understand the mechanics and service associated with any safe and approved modification.

Homemade modifications can affect accuracy and function and be very dangerous if not done properly. It could also void any warranties associated with the firearm. Some are illegal.

17. Neglecting to respect your surroundings

When you fire a gun, you’re sending a bullet into the air traveling at hundreds of miles an hour over a range measured in miles. Think twice about what’s around you and respect your surroundings anytime you shoot.

18. Making the mistake of using your scope in place of binoculars

This is all too common and can result in you aiming at a person, building, or other object you would never intend to shoot. This goes back to only pointing your gun in a safe direction and avoiding anything you don’t intend to shoot. You may practice those principles on a regular basis, but using your scope as binoculars will contradict that rule.

19. Neglecting to obey all gun range rules

The rules are always posted as you enter any gun range. The Range Master is there to ensure everyone’s safety and enforce the rules. They are basically a recap of everything we’re covering here.

20. Thinking it okay to drink and shoot

Alcohol and driving don’t mix and neither does alcohol and guns. If you are taking any prescription medications that might impair your judgment, the same rule applies. Firing any gun can have significant consequences and it’s the last thing you should do with any kind of diminished capacity.

21. When in doubt, don’t pull the trigger

We mentioned this earlier but it’s one of the most significant rules. After a gun is fired there’s very little to stop a bullet. If you aren’t sure of your shot –don’t shoot.

Exception to the Rules?

An obvious observation is that in a crisis or the panic of self-defense, many of these rules would be hard if not impossible to follow. If your reason for owning a gun is personal self-defense in an emergency, at least make sure the gun is clean, stored securely, and that the proper ammunition is in the clip.

Most gun accidents occur when someone has access to an unsecured or unlocked gun. The best advice is to take that gun safety course and always try to follow these rules.

You May Also Like:

• 17 Home Security Tips for Homesteaders
• 5 Best Rifles for Homesteaders
• 9 Best Firearms for Homesteaders
• 40 Home Repair Supplies for Homesteaders
• Homemade, Self-Moving Chicken Tractor

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Prepping for Beginners: A Guide to Get You Started

Many of us have been prepping for a long time. We may not know everything, but we are learning each day. In the last few years, I have seen more newbies unsure of how to get started.

So, I decided to write a prepping guide for beginners to help those who are just starting on the right path. 

Right now, I can tell you that the price of the #10 cans shown above is overpriced. If I were starting, I would not buy #10 cans, at least not now.

At the very minimum, prices have quadrupled in the last ten years. There was a year where manufacturers were unable to get the #10 empty cans, and now fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy are in short supply.

I started buying “Pantry Cans” they are smaller. I do not sell Thrive Life but that is the only company that I know that sells them. At my age, 75, I stopped buying freeze-dried food. Canned foods work great for us.

Prepping for Beginners

The first thing I can say is that you have to start! You can start with limited money, like $100, but you just have to start. Below, I am going to share with you how to get started!

Prepping for Beginners – Water

When you start out, the first thing you want to do is start storing water! You can only live 3 to 5 days without water. That means if the water supply is tainted, such as in Flint, Michigan, you need to have water to drink. 

The American Red Cross recommends storing 1-gallon of water per person per day. That means if you have 5 people, you will want 5-gallons of water stored for each day. When starting out, I would begin by having at least a 3 week supply of water. So, you do the math for your family. 

BUT, you know I like to store 4-gallons of water per person per day. My calculations for a family of five would be 20 gallons for one day. Three days would be 60-gallons, so please do the math for your family. You may or may not use all four gallons daily, but it’s better to have it than be dehydrated.

Be prepared the right way with enough water to live safely. We need water for drinking, cooking, washing clothes and dishes, to name a few. Just start slowly storing water for your family.

Do you have to buy all this water at once? 

Absolutely not! Figure out how many gallons you need for 3 weeks. You can buy extra water each week for several months until you build up a good supply. As you store and get more water, I recommend reading my post: Water: Do You Have Enough so that you know the safest way to store it. In addition to this water post, you can learn more about water storage in my other posts:

• How to Find Other Water Sources in an Emergency
• How to Store Water for Drinking and Cooking
• Store Water for Survival Today, Not Tomorrow
• How to Store Water in an Apartment for Survival

Once you get to 3 weeks, DON’T STOP!

Prepping for Beginners – Food

The second thing you need to think about when you begin prepping is food! In an emergency, you may not be able to get to the store, the stores may have shortages, or it’s just too dangerous to go to the store. Again, I would try to have at least 3 weeks of food stocked up. 

Do you have to buy all this food at once? 

Depending on your age, you can live 8 to 21 days without food. Even a small amount of food can be rationed to keep you alive. So, don’t worry about getting all that food at once. Just Start!

What Food Items Should I Start With?

I wanted to show you this picture because I store these food items in their original containers. Of course, you will need to place them in plastic buckets if you have critters in your neighborhood. I store these in my pantry, as is. This way, Mark and I know at a glance what we have, and yes, we rotate them as needed.

Typically, I tell people to store what they eat. However, there are a few items that I think everyone should start storing because you want food that you can rotate, as well as having items you store for a long time. Here are some food items to start with on your next grocery trip!

These items you can store indefinitely, if they are in proper containers:

• Wheat
• Salt
• Sugar
• Honey
• Rice
• Beans (they will get harder every year and will take longer to cook)

These items you can store for about a year:

• Canned condensed meat and soups
• Canned fruits, fruit juices, and vegetables
• Ready-to-eat cereal and uncooked instant cereal
• Peanut butter
• Jelly
• Canned nuts (please keep in your freezer)
• White flour (12-18 months)
• Raisins

These items you can store for 6 months:

• Dried fruit
• Dry crackers

Prepping for Beginners – Medications

Another thing many new preppers don’t think about is medications. A big reason we are seeing an increase of beginners wanting to prep is because of the pandemic. Obviously, we all get sick, from time to time, and we need to make sure we have a few items stocked away. Be sure to consult with your medical professional to be sure they do not conflict with your prescriptions. Here are some of the basics to start with:

• Prescription medications- if you can, get extra scripts from your Dr. 
• Tylenol-fevers that won’t go away require you to alternate Tylenol and Ibuprofen. 
• Ibuprofen 
• Benadryl-this is the best for any allergic reaction.
• Cold and flu medication
• Anti-diarrhea medication

These are just a few medications to start with. If you want a more extensive list, please check out my post: 35 OTC Medications You Should Store. 

Other Items New Preppers Need to Have

In addition to water, food, and medications, there are some other things you may want to make sure you have. Here are my beginner basics:

• First aid kit– start with a simple premade one. 
• Toilet paper– as of today, it’s readily available
• Menstrual pads, tampons, or whatever you use
• Soap
• Shampoo
• Bleach
• Dish soap
• Baby supplies, if needed
• Pet supplies, if needed
• Laundry soap
• Trash bags
• Cleaning supplies
• Related: 30 Things You Need to Stock

Storage Tips

The best way to prep is to make sure what you prep isn’t being wasted. Nobody wants to waste money when prepping! Here are some storage tips to keep in mind:

• Keep food in a cool, dry place. Darker is best. 
• Wrap perishable foods in plastic bags. Keep them in sealed containers in your refrigerator.
• Store sugar and flour in air-tight canisters or buckets. 
• Throw out canned goods that are swollen, dented, or corroded. 
• Rotate your food. Use food before it goes bad, then write it on your list to replace it. 
• Date everything when you purchase it!
• Related: 25 Important Items You Should Have in Your Home

Your First Shopping List

So, to break this down for you, I am going to give you your first shopping list. Obviously, you will have to buy what works for you and your family. This list should be in addition to your regular grocery list. But, this is a good place to start: 

1. An extra gallon or case of water
2. 2 extra cans of meat
3. 2 extra cans of fruit
4. 4 extra boxes of pasta
5. 2 extra cans of vegetables
6. White rice
7. White flour
8. Instant Milk
9. An extra jar of Peanut butter
10. Tylenol
11. Bleach
12. 1 extra container of shampoo, body wash/soap, and conditioner
13. An extra container of dish soap
14. Extra toilet paper
15. First Aid kit
16. Toothbrushes and toothpaste

After you completed this list, begin adding more to your stockpile. If you can’t afford to get everything on the list, pick a few items you can afford and grab those. 

Final Word

If you are a beginner, I can’t stress this enough..START! Start today! You can start with 1-gallon of water and 1 extra canned good. Just start wherever you can. Start with a 72 hour supply, work up to 3 weeks, then just keep going! You’ve got this! May God Bless this world, Linda

The post Prepping for Beginners: A Guide to Get You Started appeared first on Food Storage Moms.

from Food Storage Moms