Another option for Naruto would be to look for wild fruits or plants. There are likely some edible plants in the areas around Konoha. He could use his knowledge of the environment, which he might have gained from his training missions, to identify and gather these food sources.
Well, not having a home in a fanfiction could make Naruto more independent. He'd have to rely solely on himself more. Maybe he'd become more distrustful of others at first because he has no safe place to call home. He'd be constantly on the move, which could make him a better fighter as he'd learn different survival skills.
He could develop cooking skills. Naruto loves to eat, so it's possible that he would focus on learning how to cook delicious meals. He might even open his own little restaurant in the village, serving up his favorite dishes and becoming known for his unique recipes.
Naruto might be a storyteller. He has many experiences and a vivid imagination. He could sit in the village square and tell tales of heroism (not necessarily ninja - related) to the children, passing on values like courage and friendship through his stories.
He might become a simple farmer. Just imagine Naruto living a peaceful life in the outskirts of the village, growing crops and taking care of livestock. It would be a far cry from his ninja adventures, but he could find contentment in the simplicity of nature and the fruits of his own labor.
He could form relationships with other outcasts. People who also don't have a home or a place in society. They could band together and form a sort of 'family' of misfits.
One possibility could be that Naruto discovers some ancient and long - forgotten ninja techniques. These techniques might give him powers similar to or even more powerful than the Kyuubi's. For example, he could find a scroll that teaches him how to manipulate natural energy in a unique way that no one has ever done before.
Maybe he's sick and has lost his appetite. Or he could be on a strict diet for some specific health or fitness goal.
Well, Merlin is a fictional character and doesn't have a physical form to actually 'eat' anything, let alone fanfiction. Fanfiction is a written work created by fans, and it's not something that can be consumed in a literal sense by a fictional being like Merlin.
In such a fanfiction, Naruto might start by relying on the kindness of his friends. For example, Sakura could offer him some food from time to time. He could also look for odd jobs around the village, like helping with construction or farming, even if it's not something he's used to. Another possibility is that he might barter his ninja skills for food. Maybe he'll offer to protect a local merchant's goods during transport in exchange for a meal.
He might rely on the kindness of others. In the Naruto world, there are many kind - hearted people. For example, he could get some food from the villagers who start to see his true self. Maybe Iruka sensei would share his food with Naruto from time to time.