Complete Gardening
In the quest for self-sufficiency, growing high-calorie crops is essential for preppers. These crops provide the necessary energy and nutrition to sustain you in challenging times. This article highlights ten crops that are not only calorie-dense but also relatively easy to cultivate, ensuring a steady food supply during emergencies. From versatile vegetables to nutrient-packed grains, these crops are a must-have in any prepper’s garden. Each item in this list offers unique benefits, making them invaluable for those looking to maximize their food production capabilities while maintaining a balanced diet.
1. Potatoes
Potatoes have been a staple in diets worldwide, known for their versatility. With a high caloric content, they can be boiled, mashed, or baked, making them adaptable to various dishes. Their ease of cultivation adds to their appeal, requiring minimal maintenance once planted. Potatoes are not just about calories; they also provide essential nutrients like potassium and vitamin C.
They thrive in well-drained soil and prefer cooler climates, making them suitable for many regions. A fun fact: potatoes were the first vegetable to be grown in space! This shows their resilience and importance in diverse conditions.
2. Corn
Corn, often celebrated for its sweetness, is a powerhouse of energy. Its kernels are rich in carbohydrates, providing a substantial calorie boost. From grilled cobs to cornbread, its culinary uses are extensive and varied.
Corn grows best in warm climates with full sun exposure. It’s a resilient crop that can withstand drought to some extent. An intriguing tidbit: one bushel of corn can sweeten about 400 cans of soda or produce 2.5 gallons of ethanol fuel! This crop’s adaptability and energy yield make it indispensable for preppers aiming for self-reliance.
3. Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes bring a burst of color and nutrition to the table. Rich in calories and beta-carotene, they contribute to a balanced diet while satisfying hunger. Their natural sweetness makes them a favorite in both savory and sweet dishes.
They are relatively easy to grow, preferring loose, well-drained soil and warm temperatures. Interesting fact: sweet potatoes were domesticated over 5,000 years ago in Central or South America! This history of cultivation showcases their longstanding importance as a food source.
4. Beans
Beans are a protein-rich, high-calorie crop that has been cultivated for centuries. Their ability to fix nitrogen in the soil benefits other plants, making them an excellent companion crop. From beans on toast to hearty stews, they are a versatile culinary ingredient.
Beans thrive in warm, sunny environments and can be grown in various types of soil. A little-known fact: some bean varieties, like the tepary bean, are incredibly drought-resistant! This resilience makes them particularly valuable for preppers in arid regions.
5. Squash
Squash is not only calorically dense but also adds diversity to the diet with its unique flavors. Its flesh is rich in vitamins, while the seeds provide healthy fats. Whether baked, steamed, or sautéed, squash can be a delightful addition to meals.
These plants require well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight. A quirky fact: squashes were among the first plants domesticated in Mesoamerica over 8,000 years ago! This long history attests to their nutritional value and ease of cultivation.
6. Rice
Rice forms the backbone of diets in many cultures, known for its high caloric content. Its grains are a staple, providing a quick energy source. From fried rice to sushi, its diversity is unmatched.
Rice thrives in flooded fields, requiring abundant water for optimal growth. Did you know that rice accounts for one-fifth of the calories consumed by humans globally? Such significance highlights its indispensability in food security strategies.
7. Yams
Yams offer a robust and earthy flavor, paired with high calorie content. They are rich in complex carbohydrates, making them a satisfying and energy-rich food source. Boiled, roasted, or mashed, yams are versatile in the kitchen.
Yams prefer tropical climates and well-drained soil. Fun to note: some yam species can grow over five feet long! This impressive growth and nutritional density make them a key crop for those focusing on high-calorie farming.
8. Oats
Oats are a nutrition-packed grain, celebrated for their calorie density and heart-healthy benefits. Often rolled into oatmeal or used in baking, they offer a hearty start to the day.
They grow well in cooler climates, needing well-drained soil and moderate rainfall. Oats were first cultivated over 4,000 years ago in Europe! Such history underscores their enduring value in human diets.
9. Wheat
Wheat is a cornerstone of global agriculture, known for its rich caloric content. It’s milled into flour, forming the basis of bread, pasta, and numerous other staples.
Thriving in temperate regions, wheat requires well-drained soil and moderate rainfall. A curious bit of history: wheat was first domesticated in the Fertile Crescent over 10,000 years ago! Its profound impact on civilization is reflected in its widespread cultivation.
10. Barley
Barley, with its robust texture and nutty flavor, is a high-calorie grain that enriches various dishes. From soups to malt production, its uses are broad.
It performs well in cooler climates and is known for its resilience against harsh conditions. Did you know? Barley was used as currency in ancient Mesopotamia! This historical tidbit highlights its longstanding value in human societies.
11. Cassava
Cassava, a staple in many tropical regions, thrives in poor soil conditions. Its tubers are rich in calories, providing energy in abundance. The plant’s resilience makes it a valuable crop for those preparing for uncertain times.
Though it requires processing to remove toxins, its versatility in cooking—from flours to fries—makes it indispensable. Cassava has a storied history, serving as a primary food source for millions worldwide.
Did you know? This ancient crop was cultivated as early as 1400 B.C. by the Mayans, showcasing its long-standing role in human sustenance.
12. Amaranth
With its tall, striking seed heads, amaranth stands out in any garden. This ancient grain, once a staple of the Aztecs, is packed with calories and nutrients. Its seeds can be used in porridge, baked goods, and even popped like popcorn.
Amaranth’s leaves are edible too, offering a spinach-like taste. It’s drought-resistant and grows in various climates, making it ideal for preppers. The plant symbolizes resilience and adaptability, qualities essential for survival.
Fun fact: Amaranth was banned by Spanish conquistadors due to its association with Aztec rituals.
13. Sago Palm
The sago palm, native to Southeast Asia, is renowned for its starchy pith, transformed into sago pearls. These pearls are calorie-dense and serve as a filling staple in many dishes.
Growing sago palms requires patience, as they mature slowly, but their payoff is significant. Sago has been a cornerstone food for many island communities.
Interestingly, sago palms aren’t true palms but are cycads, one of the oldest plant groups, dating back 300 million years. This plant’s ancient lineage underscores its long-term viability as a food source.
14. Breadfruit
Breadfruit, with its potato-like texture, is a tropical delight. High in calories, it can be boiled, roasted, or fried, providing a versatile food source.
The tree is fast-growing, yielding abundant fruit once mature, making it a practical addition for preppers. Breadfruit’s rich history connects it to Polynesian voyaging, where it sustained long sea journeys.
Fun fact: Captain Bligh’s infamous mutiny on the HMS Bounty centered around breadfruit. His mission was to transport this valuable crop to the West Indies as a cheap food source for slaves.
15. Quinoa
Renowned for its nutritional profile, quinoa is a powerhouse grain. Native to the Andes, it thrives in high altitudes, making it unique among crops.
Quinoa seeds are calorie-rich, providing essential energy and protein. Its adaptability to various climates enhances its appeal for preppers. The grain’s role as a sacred crop for the Incas adds a layer of historical significance.
Did you know? NASA has considered quinoa as a suitable crop for long-duration space missions due to its nutritional completeness and ease of growth in controlled environments.