Category: Homesteads

Food Security 101: Top 10 Stockpile Staples

On By The.Daily.ChristianIn Food stockpiling, Homesteads, SHTFLeave a comment

Food Security 101: Top 10 Stockpile Staples for the Homestead

Living on a homestead is more than just a lifestyle choice; it’s a commitment to self-sufficiency and preparedness. One of the most important aspects of this way of life is ensuring that you have a solid foundation for food security. There’s a certain peace of mind that comes from knowing you can feed your family no matter what the world throws your way. Whether you’re preparing for an unexpected crisis or simply want to make sure you’re well-stocked for the long haul, knowing what to stockpile is key.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN HOW TO NEVER STARVE WHEN DOOMSDAY HITS!

Food security on the homestead isn’t just about having enough food in the pantry. It’s about being resourceful, thinking ahead, and building up a collection of staples that will help your family thrive, even in uncertain times. There’s a strong sense of responsibility when it comes to providing for yourself and your loved ones. The Bible says in 1 Timothy 5:8, “Anyone who does not provide for their relatives, and especially for their own household, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.” As homesteaders, we take that verse to heart, ensuring that we are prepared and able to provide for our families.

Let’s dive into the top 10 food stockpile staples that every homesteader should have. These items will not only provide you with essential nutrition but will also give you peace of mind knowing that you’re ready for whatever the future may bring.

1. Canned Goods

Canned goods are an absolute essential in any food stockpile. They have a long shelf life, are easy to store, and can provide you with a wide range of meal options in a pinch. Stocking up on canned vegetables, beans, soups, meats, and fruits will ensure that you have access to nutrients even when fresh food isn’t available. When purchasing canned goods, make sure to check expiration dates and rotate your stock regularly to ensure freshness.

Tip #1: Always buy a variety of canned goods to prevent food fatigue—opt for a mix of vegetables, meats, beans, and fruits.

2. Grains (Rice, Oats, and Quinoa)

Grains are a staple of any long-term food storage plan because they’re versatile, nutrient-dense, and easy to store. Rice is a homesteader’s best friend—it’s cheap, stores well, and can be used in a variety of dishes. Oats are perfect for breakfast and can be used in baked goods or as a thickener for soups and stews. Quinoa, while a bit pricier, is a great gluten-free option that packs a lot of protein and fiber.

Tip #2: Consider purchasing grains in bulk to save money, and store them in airtight containers to protect them from pests and moisture.

3. Beans and Legumes

Beans are another essential staple for homesteaders. They’re full of protein and fiber, which makes them an excellent choice for maintaining a balanced diet. Dried beans have an incredibly long shelf life, which is why they’re a popular item for long-term food storage. Stock up on various types, including black beans, kidney beans, lentils, and chickpeas. They’re perfect for soups, stews, salads, or as a main dish.

Tip #3: Buy dried beans in bulk and be sure to soak them before cooking to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.

4. Salt and Spices

Salt is one of the most important stockpile items you can have—not only for flavoring food but for preservation as well. Salt is a time-tested method for curing meats, preserving vegetables, and seasoning dishes. Alongside salt, don’t forget to stock up on your favorite spices. Fresh herbs may not always be available, but dried herbs and spices can transform a basic meal into something flavorful and comforting.

Tip #4: Store salt in airtight containers, and consider vacuum-sealing smaller spice packets for long-term freshness.

5. Sugar and Honey

Sugar and honey are important staples for sweetening dishes and making preserves. Sugar is also crucial in the process of canning fruits and vegetables. Honey, on the other hand, has natural antibacterial properties and can be used in many medicinal and culinary ways. Both have a long shelf life and can be used in a variety of recipes.

Tip #5: Store sugar in airtight containers to prevent clumping, and opt for raw honey if possible, as it has a longer shelf life.

6. Flour and Baking Ingredients

If you’re a homesteader, you likely do a lot of baking. Flour, yeast, and other baking ingredients are essential for creating bread, muffins, pancakes, and other staples. Flour has a relatively long shelf life when stored properly, but make sure to rotate it regularly and keep it in airtight containers. You’ll also want to have a variety of other baking essentials like baking powder, soda, and cornstarch on hand.

Tip #6: Consider storing flour in the freezer for longer shelf life and to prevent pests from getting into it.

7. Dehydrated and Freeze-Dried Foods

Dehydrated and freeze-dried foods are perfect for the homestead pantry. They’re lightweight, easy to store, and offer a great shelf life, making them an excellent addition to any emergency stockpile. Freeze-dried fruits, vegetables, and even meats can provide valuable nutrition when fresh food is not available. These foods can be rehydrated with water and used in a variety of recipes.

Tip #7: Consider investing in a food dehydrator or freeze dryer to make your own dehydrated food at home for ultimate self-sufficiency.

8. Canned Dairy or Powdered Milk

Dairy can be difficult to store long-term, but there are options that will ensure you don’t miss out on this important part of your diet. Canned dairy and powdered milk are both excellent choices for homesteaders looking to stock up. They may not replace fresh milk, but they’re great for cooking, baking, and making drinks. Powdered milk can also be used to make cheese or yogurt, providing valuable protein and calcium.

Tip #8: Store powdered milk in airtight containers and keep it in a cool, dark place to extend its shelf life.

9. Root Vegetables (Potatoes, Sweet Potatoes, Onions)

Root vegetables are an essential part of any homestead’s food stockpile. They store well, provide essential vitamins and minerals, and can be eaten in a variety of ways. Potatoes and sweet potatoes are packed with carbohydrates and can be used in everything from soups to casseroles. Onions are a great addition to many dishes and can be dehydrated for long-term storage.

Tip #9: Store root vegetables in a cool, dry place to prevent sprouting and spoilage. If possible, grow your own to increase self-sufficiency.

10. Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds are nutrient-dense and packed with protein, fats, and vitamins. Almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds are great options for your stockpile. They can be eaten as snacks, added to meals, or used for making nut butters. These foods are especially helpful in adding variety and texture to your meals.

Tip #10: Store nuts and seeds in airtight containers or vacuum-seal bags to prevent them from going rancid due to exposure to air.

10 Homestead Tips for Food Security:

  1. Rotate your stock regularly – Make sure you’re using older items first and replenishing your stock to keep everything fresh.
  2. Preserve your own food – Canning, dehydrating, and freezing your homegrown produce helps build up your food security.
  3. Grow a garden – The best way to ensure a steady supply of fresh food is by growing it yourself.
  4. Start a compost pile – Composting kitchen scraps will help nourish your garden, ensuring you have a sustainable food source.
  5. Invest in root cellars – A root cellar is a great way to store vegetables and fruits for long periods, keeping them fresh without refrigeration.
  6. Learn to forage – Wild edibles can supplement your food supply, and knowledge of local plants can be invaluable.
  7. Preserve your own meat – Learn to butcher and preserve meat through methods like curing, smoking, or canning.
  8. Store water – Having a water filtration system and backup water supplies is just as important as food.
  9. Barter with neighbors – Building strong relationships within your community can be a valuable resource for exchanging goods and services.
  10. Be prepared for emergencies – Having a well-stocked pantry and emergency plan in place will give you peace of mind.

How I Slashed My Canned Goods Expenses By Half

On By The.Daily.ChristianIn Food Shortages, Food stockpiling, Homesteads, self-sufficientLeave a comment

I always knew that canned foods are the one of easiest ways to make sure you always have food to eat.

However, when I looked at how much I need to stockpile, things started getting a little out of hand.

Some people say you need to store 3 to 6 months’ worth of food. Others even say a year.

This wouldn’t be a concern in the past, but with everything that’s going on lately, I simply can’t afford to shop for this much food.

Even if I shop in bulk.

So I did what any family man would do. I made them myself.

I looked into it and found several ways to make canned food.

And since I am not an experienced prepper, I used the simplest method there is. Water bath canning.

This is the exact process I followed

  1. Gather your food. This could be anything from fresh fruits and veggies to homemade sauces or jams.
  2. Pack the food into jars. You’ll want to use specially designed canning jars for this, and make sure there is some space at the top (referred to as ‘headspace’).
  3. Secure the lids. Once your jars are filled, put on the lids and screw bands, ensuring they are tightly sealed.
  4. Submerge the jars in a pot of boiling water. This is where the magic happens. The heat eliminates the bacteria, yeasts, or molds that could cause your food to spoil.
  5. Let the jars cool. Once you’ve boiled them for the recommended time, take them out of the water and let them cool. As they cool, the lids will seal completely.
  6. Inspect the seals. After the jars have cooled, inspect the seals to make sure they’re airtight. Any jars that haven’t been sealed properly can be reprocessed or refrigerated and used first.

And voila.

This simple process reduced my canned goods expenses by about half.

Bear in mind, you don’t have to store just beans.

You can use the same method for fruits, vegetables, jams, sauces, or whatever you like.

And you will have nutritional food that will last you through any emergency.

Why don’t you try it?

Your Grocery Bills Are About To Increase (Unless You Do This)

If you are an American, eggs are probably not ever missing from your house.

There was some bad luck around eggs, however, that will make you reconsider your breakfast options.

I love my scrambled eggs in the morning as much as the next guy.

But they are about to become so expensive that they will be leaving a bad taste in our mouths.

As if inflation wasn’t enough.

The bird flu just affected 52,700,000 poultry in the U.S. alone.

This is not a small number.

Chickens are either dying or being put down because of that disease.

And eggs are already almost 3 times more expensive than what they were a year ago.

I also read that a fire recently broke out at an egg facility in Connecticut, and killed 100,000 birds.

It is almost like eggs are cursed.

They will keep getting more expensive.

How much more can our wallets take?

If you don’t want your jaw to drop every time you shop for groceries, I suggest you raise your own chickens.

Raising your own chickens is not just good for your wallet, but for your health too.

You will be the one who chooses what to feed them.

So you will know that they’ll produce nutritious eggs that are not filled with any weird hormones.

With just a little bit of effort, you can set up a small coop in your backyard and start raising a few chickens.

It’s a fun and rewarding hobby, and it will pay for itself in no time.

There are many breeds of chickens out there.

And you can even choose breeds that are known for their laying ability.

This will also give you peace of mind, knowing that if things come to worse, you will always have emergency food.

If you enjoy eggs as much as I do, this decision is a no-brainer.

It will assist you with feeding your family nutritious eggs even when they become too expensive.

Processed with VSCO with g6 preset

See what to look out for when raising your own chicken.

This Is The First Sign Society Is About To Collapse

On By The.Daily.ChristianIn america, Food stockpiling, Homesteads, Preparedness, PreppersLeave a comment

When most people think about the start of the apocalypse…

They usually picture something out of a dystopian movie. A sudden, widespread terror, or perhaps a catastrophic event.

But in reality, societal breakdowns don’t happen overnight.

The first sign is far subtler than that

It’s a shift in trust.

That’s right, folks.

Trust is the glue that holds our society together.

The belief that your neighbor will respect your property.

That the grocery store will have food..

That your funds are safe.

But when that trust begins to erode, we’re on a slippery slope.

When people start losing confidence in the institutions that uphold society

When faith in the authorities dwindles…

We start edging closer to a societal breakdown.

Imagine going to work one day, and noticing a huge crowd of worried individuals outside of the biggest local banks.

Everyone is suddenly trying to withdraw their funds

Why?

Are banks not to be trusted anymore?

Do you have to withdraw your savings too?

Or imagine if trust in law enforcement begins to falter, and individuals may take matters into their own hands

Leading to an increase in vigilante justice and public unrest.

I am not sharing this to scare you. Quite the opposite. Awareness is the first step towards preparation.

If we can spot the signs early enough, we can prepare, adapt, and survive.

So, what can we do?

We can keep a close eye on societal sentiment.

Pay close attention to current events, the rumblings on social media, and the worries and concerns of your neighbors and friends.

These can provide valuable insights into the state of societal trust.

Then, you can ensure you are prepared for self-sufficiency.

This means having a reliable stockpile, honing our survival skills, and fostering a close-knit community of like-minded individuals.

Societal collapse is a gradual process.

If we spot it early enough, it can give us the upper hand.

So let us stay vigilant and aware.

This Is Why Most People Will Not Make It When SHTF

Imagine you’re planning a road trip that will last a week.

You figure out where you’ll stay, what you’ll eat, and which sights you’ll see.

But what if this trip wouldn’t last a week, but an entire year

Would you be able to remain safe?

This is a real possibility, folks.

Emergencies can force us to transform our way of living for good.

Most people think about what they’ll do for an emergency that might last a couple of days or weeks.

But that’s just not enough.

To really thrive when SHTF, we need to think months, years, and even decades ahead.

The long-term, day-to-day living in a different world.

Canned food and bottled water will keep you safe for some time. Months even.

But what happens when those run out?

In the long run, skills like hunting, fishing, farming, preserving food, and sourcing clean water are essential.

This is why what we do is so important.

We constantly improve our prepping abilities and add to our skill set.

Just like our ancestors did.

They knew the land, the seasons, the plants, and the animals. They understood that prepping wasn’t a sprint, but a marathon.

We have to adopt this kind of mindset as well.

We need to think beyond the initial emergency, beyond the canned goods, and towards a future where we don’t just think about what we have, but about what we know and what we can do.

Prepping is a lifestyle.

For most people, this shift in thinking is not easy. For others, it isn’t even possible.

But you and I both know the peace of mind that comes from knowing you’re ready for anything.

So, let’s not be like most people. Let’s think ahead. Let’s stay prepared. And let’s keep improving.

“Preppers Don’t Have Fun”

Someone once accused me of taking things too seriously.

She said that since I’m always trying to prepare for the worst, I don’t ever enjoy the present moment.

When I heard about this, I couldn’t help but chuckle.

Yes, I’m focused on prepping.

Yes, I’m keen on making sure my family and I can weather any storm that comes our way.

But who’s to say that I don’t have fun doing it?

You see, there is a certain joy that comes with being prepared for anything that most people can’t ever understand

A joy that most people will not ever understand.

When you are constantly acquiring different skills that can help survive potential threats, it’s like solving an exciting puzzle.

Remember the excitement as a child, that spark of curiosity when you first learned to ride a bike or tie your shoelaces? 

This is how I feel every time I learn about a different way to purify water, start a fire, or build a survival shelter.

And the reason I created this newsletter is because I wanted to share my excitement with people like you.

People who appreciate the value of emergency preparedness.

But the fun of prepping doesn’t end with the thrill of learning different skills. 

It’s also about putting these skills to the test, challenging yourself, and celebrating those moments of achievement.

Imagine successfully building a survival shelter from scratch for the first time.

It’s not just a place with a roof. It’s a testament to your resilience and resourcefulness.

Or think about the feeling of triumph when you manage to start a fire using just flint and steel.

There’s an indescribable sense of fulfillment in these moments.

I know “fun” is not something we think about when we talk about survival situations.

But it’s an important topic.

It’s what makes prepping sustainable in the long run.

So if someone says you’re a “doomsayer” or accuses you of being too focused on bad situations, just ignore them.

Keep prepping, and enjoy the process.

4 Times That Hunting For Food Can Be Deadly

On By The.Daily.ChristianIn Food stockpiling, Homesteads, hunting, Off The GridLeave a comment

I was reminiscing about a hunting trip I took a few years back.

It was supposed to be a quiet couple of days, just me and nature. But, as fate would have it, it wasn’t quite that simple.

As the dawn broke, I spotted a fine-looking deer.

However, I noticed something odd about its movements.

The deer seemed disoriented, stumbling, and acting unnaturally. It struck me then that this was not a safe animal to hunt.

See, it wasn’t about the deer itself, but with what might be lurking inside it.

This deer could have been exposed to harmful contaminants that can make the meat unsafe to consume.

Think about it like this.

When SHTF, the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the food we eat can become contaminated.

And the same applies to the wildlife around us.

Certain times and places make it risky to hunt due to the likelihood of contamination.

These are the 4 most common scenarios when you should steer clear of hunting

Post-Industrial Areas

Industrial waste can seep into the environment and contaminate local wildlife.

Don’t hunt near abandoned factories or industrial zones where the local animals might have been exposed to harmful pollutants.

Post-Nuclear Events

If there’s been a nuclear event in your area, radiation can contaminate animals for a significant time. The risk isn’t worth the potential food source.

During and After Wildfires

Wildfires can release heavy metals and toxins from burnt materials into the atmosphere. Animals exposed to these contaminants can become unsafe to eat.

Disease Outbreaks

Certain diseases like Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) in deer can affect the safety of the meat.

Look out for erratic behavior, drooling, or lack of coordination in animals as signs of potential disease.

Hunting is more than just getting a good shot.

It’s about understanding the animal, the environment, and the potential risks involved.

It’s crucial to be aware of these dangers and make informed decisions about when to hunt and when to let it go.

So next time you’re out in the wilderness, remember to consider more than just the size of the game you spot.

We also have to ensure that food is safe to eat.

This Cooking Mistake could Prove Deadly for the Homestead

On By The.Daily.ChristianIn Homesteads, PreppersLeave a comment

This is how many house fires happen in the US every year,

And if you live the homestead lifestyle, you really

should pay attention to what I have to tell you here!

It’s more than you think.

When it’s something that shouldn’t happen even once.

House fires have ruined people’s properties.

Everything they worked for.

And in the worst cases, it has taken their loved ones.

It’s time we turn down the heat on this risk and stir up some safety measures.

Let’s address the elephant in the room, unattended cooking.

It’s the primary cause of these fires.

Picture this, you’re sautéing vegetables, the cellphone rings, and you step away, thinking, “It’s just for a moment.”

But brother, a moment is exactly what it takes for a fire to ignite.

The golden rule is simple. Stay in the kitchen while you’re frying, boiling, grilling, or broiling food.

If you must go out, even for a short period, power down the stove.

So let’s talk about what’s cooking on your stovetop. Crowded cooktops are a recipe for disaster.

Keep anything that can catch fire – oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels, or curtains – away from your stovetop.

A clean cooking area is a critical precaution against fires.

For those who love a good simmer, setting a timer is your ally.

It’s an easy step that serves as a reminder that you’re cooking, especially useful when you’re simmering, baking, or roasting food.

In the unfortunate event that a small grease fire starts, remain calm.

If it’s safe to do so, smother the flames by sliding a lid over the pan and powering down the stove.

Keep the pan covered until it is completely cooled.

For an oven fire, keep the door closed and close the heat.

Remember, water is a foe in this scenario as it can cause the oil to splatter and spread the fire.

As I always say, being prepared can make a world of difference.

Consider keeping a fire extinguisher in your kitchen and ensure every family member knows how to use it.

But more importantly, if a fire grows out of control, don’t hesitate to evacuate and contact 911. Your safety is paramount.

God bless, and always stay safe and very aware!

Can you bug out on foot?

On By The.Daily.ChristianIn Homesteads, Off The Grid, SHFT, Survivalist4 Comments

Ask anyone what their plan when SHTF is, and they’ll you,

“I’ll just grab my family, hop in the car, and head out.”

And I don’t blame them.

Our vehicles are essential when it comes to a solid evacuation plan during an emergency.

But the reality is, your car might not always be there for you, brother.

It might run out of gas, have a flat tire, or become stuck in a traffic jam when you need it the most.

Or it might not be safe to evacuate with a car when there are major floods going on.

The point is, knowing how to evacuate on foot is a skill that everyone must have.

This goes beyond stamina and grit.

Because of its nature, bugging out on foot requires smart planning.

And knowing the lay of the land.

So let’s talk survival gear.

Your bug-out bag is your lifeline. It should be light but packed with essentials.

Water, non-perishable snacks, a map,

As well as these crucial items shown in this survivalist YouTube video.

Next we are going to consider the route.

Pre-planning multiple escape paths is essential, as is a solid understanding of your area’s geography.

Remember, the shortest route isn’t always the safest. Stay away from bottlenecks and high-conflict areas where possible.

Next on the list, footwear.

Everyone forgets about the importance of proper footwear until their feet become filled with blisters and they can’t even walk, let alone run.

See how to choose the appropriate footwear for off-the-grid survival before the worst happens.

And let’s not forget about stealth and security.

Traveling by foot requires you to be more aware of your surroundings.

Use natural cover, move at times when visibility is in your favor, and always have a plan for evading unwanted attention.

I’m also sure you understand that fitness plays a crucial role.

Regular walks, jogs, or hikes with your bug-out bag can prepare you for the demands of a real SHTF scenario.

Both physically and mentally.

While I hope it will not ever come this,

It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Equip yourself with knowledge, gear, and the physical readiness to face whatever comes your way.

And remember, it’s not just about getting out, it’s about getting to safety.