So, I LOVE food. Who doesn’t?

By Dally Tram | Photographer, Climber, Backcountry Chef

Food is much more than fuel; various meals can remind us of different moments in our lives. It brings people together, it tells us who we are, where we come from, and where we’ve been. No matter how intricate or simple a meal can be, nourishing meals are an integral part of our daily lives.

Along those lines, food is often used as a means to retain our cultural identity; at least it does for me. Being a first-generation Vietnamese-American that is passionate about the outdoors, there is only one way to combine my culture with my outdoor adventures; it is cozying up to meals that defined my childhood at the end of the day. Growing up, making and enjoying Vietnamese food is one of the greatest ways I feel connected to my culture.

Even when I’m out in the backcountry, hanging out at the crag, summiting a mountain, or base camping in national forests, having these meals brings me right back to my cultural roots. Cooking quality Vietnamese foods outside has been an absolute game-changer, plus it’s incredibly satisfying to share these meals with my friends.

Cooking outdoors is one of my favorite parts of my outdoor adventures. It feels like a reward after a long day of romping around in nature. This time is usually where all of our stories from the day are exchanged by the campfire. I always have a sense of greater appreciation for the meals we share during this time; since we so intentionally pack and plan these meals.

They are a big highlight and the most wholesome way to end an epic day. This is usually how these nights play out: we are ridiculously ravenous, we have a prep party, we finally get to eat to our heart's content, we laugh and stay up all night talking about our day, only to get ourselves pumped for the next day.

Want to see what Dally is cooking up? - Backpacker's Pho Recipe

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