Preparing Food for Submariners: Inside the Culinary Operations Underwater

Submariners, the brave men and women who spend months underwater in the confines of a submarine, have a unique lifestyle that requires special considerations, including their food. The process of preparing food for submariners is a fascinating blend of culinary science, logistics, and creativity. Contrary to what some might think, the captain does not order takeout before departing port. Instead, the submarine is equipped with its own kitchen and trained cooks who prepare meals for the crew throughout their deployment. Let’s delve deeper into the culinary operations underwater.

The Submarine Galley

The submarine’s kitchen, known as the galley, is a marvel of efficiency and compact design. Despite its small size, it is equipped with all the necessary appliances such as ovens, grills, and refrigerators. The cooks, known as Culinary Specialists (CS), are trained to work in these tight spaces and produce a variety of meals.

Meal Planning and Preparation

Meal planning for a submarine deployment is a complex process. The CS must consider the length of the deployment, the number of crew members, and the limited storage space available. They also need to plan for a balanced diet to ensure the crew’s health and morale. The meals are prepared fresh daily, with the CS working in shifts to provide three meals a day and snacks.

• Breakfast: This might include items like eggs, bacon, sausage, hash browns, and pancakes.
• Lunch and Dinner: These meals are more varied, with menus ranging from hamburgers and fries to steak, seafood, and international dishes.
• Snacks: Freshly baked cookies, popcorn, and other snacks are available for the crew to munch on during their breaks.

Food Storage

Storing food on a submarine is a challenge due to the limited space. Dry goods, canned goods, and non-perishable items are stored in every available nook and cranny, including under the crew’s beds. Refrigerated items are stored in the submarine’s coolers. As the deployment progresses and food supplies dwindle, the storage spaces gradually empty out, providing more living space for the crew.

Special Occasions

Submariners celebrate holidays and special occasions just like everyone else, albeit underwater. The CS go the extra mile on these days, preparing special meals to boost the crew’s morale. For instance, Thanksgiving might feature a traditional turkey dinner, while birthdays are celebrated with a cake.

In conclusion, preparing food for submariners is a unique challenge that requires careful planning, efficient use of space, and culinary creativity. The submarine’s galley and its dedicated CS play a crucial role in maintaining the crew’s health and morale during their long deployments underwater.