Cold Soaking

Cold soaking is a no-cook food preparation method used by ultralight backpackers where dehydrated meals are rehydrated using cold water over an extended period, typically 30 minutes to several hours. This technique eliminates the need to carry a stove, fuel, and cookware, significantly reducing pack weight and eliminating fire restrictions in sensitive areas. Cold soaking works best with foods like instant couscous, ramen noodles, oatmeal, and specially designed cold-soak meals, and requires only a lightweight jar or container for the rehydration process.