Gemma Palmer was pleasantly surprised by the absence of any strong cricket protein flavours in the Adventure Menu Cricket Protein Penne with ‘Creole’ Creamy Chicken.
This brand delivered with the Adventure Menu Cricket Protein Penne with ‘Creole’ Creamy Chicken vacuum-dried meal. It offers a sustainable, wholesome and satisfying 516 calories of high protein energy.
Gemma Palmer recommends
Overall, this dish is a delicious and innovative option for eco-conscious adventurers. The high protein source and the exceptional flavour make it a moorish camp meal.- high protein
- quality ingredients
- full of flavour
- cricket protein might not appeal to everyone
| Quick specs |
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| Price: £10.19 (available from Base Camp Food) Weight: 160g Calories: 826 Calories/100g: 516 Calories/£1: 81 Time to hydrate: 8 – 10 minutes Vegan/vegetarian/dairy free/gluten free? no adventuremenu.com |
It may only appeal to open minded, plant based or pro-eco eaters seeking a new protein source. This Czech based company is known for its innovative meals, and this cricket-based penne dish is no exception. It’s an intriguing real food taste experience.
A standout feature is the inclusion of SENS cricket protein powder, contributing 51g of protein to the meal. This was my first experience with cricket protein, and I was pleasantly surprised by the absence of any strong flavours in the penne. I’m impressed by the nutritional profile of vitamins and minerals. This product isn’t for people who have allergies to molluscs, crustaceans, and dust mites.
The ‘Creole’ sauce is a fusion of West African, French, and Spanish flavours. The aroma upon opening is mouthwatering with scents of garlic, onion, and herbs filling the air.
After adding water and waiting 13 minutes, the penne rehydrates well. The most noticeable ingredients on my first taste include chicken, cream, parmesan cheese, thyme, oregano, paprika sausage, and white pepper. The ‘Creole’ creamy chicken flavour is perfectly balanced. While the chicken pieces rehydrate well, adding a splash more water creates a more desirable, saucier consistency. The penne, though slightly denser than traditional pasta, offers a satisfying bite.
The brightly designed and robust packaging ensures the ingredients remain intact, and the internal large bold water fill line makes preparation a breeze. I’ve removed half a star as the occasional sausage piece didn’t rehydrate fully.
Overall, this dish is a delicious and innovative option for eco-conscious adventurers. The high protein source and the exceptional flavour make it a moorish camp meal.
Testing Conditions
Gemma tested these meals during winter hikes on the chilly, windy Cambridgeshire river trails. She enjoys a hot meal stop in winter and favours plant-based options if available. This review was first published in the September 2025 issue of The Great Outdoors.
