Yes, you do not need to wait the suggested time on the packaging! The times listed on the back of the packaging is our suggested time for the meal to be fully rehydrated. The wait time can be skipped if you are using boiling water as the food absorbs boiling water almost instantly. If you plan to eat your meal immediately after adding water and you are not using boiling water, thoroughly stir. Some meals with grains may be a little extra crunchy if the water has not yet fully absorbed.