On a cold night in the backcountry, few things beat a warm, hearty stew that actually sticks with you, and this shepherd's potato stew is built for exactly that kind of evening.

Backpacker's Pantry stayed close to the classic on this one. All-natural USDA beef, corn, and carrots come together over a mashed potato base and get finished with cheddar cheese, giving it that comforting, stick-to-your-ribs quality that the original is known for. It's straightforward, satisfying, and exactly what you want pulling out of the food barrel after a long day of paddling or portaging in cooler Canadian weather.

At 430 calories and 27 grams of protein in a 110g pouch, it delivers solid nutritional value without being overly heavy. Gluten-free and built around a clean ingredient list of familiar whole foods, it's a reliable dinner option for paddlers managing dietary restrictions without wanting to sacrifice a satisfying meal. The 10-year shelf life makes it a smart bulk purchase for outfitters and frequent backcountry travellers alike.

• Calories: 430 per serving
• Protein: 27g
• Servings per pouch: 1
• Net weight: 110g
• Gluten-free: Yes
• Shelf life: 10 years from manufacturing date
• Prep method: Just-add-boiling-water, eat from the pouch
• Key ingredients: Mashed potatoes, USDA beef, corn, carrots, cheddar cheese