How to Have a Well Stocked Pantry

How to Have a Well Stocked Pantry

Having a well stocked pantry simply means that you have plenty of the basic supplies on hand to cook dinner each day. In addition, a well stocked pantry will have a few things in it to feed your family when you don’t have time to shop.

You don’t need a big walk-in pantry. I have a very small cupboard in my kitchen that keeps my staples.

You don’t need to make a big financial investment. Plan on buying these things a little bit each week when you shop. Before you know it, your pantry will be full of the essential items.

Each week, before you grocery shop, look at the list and check to see what you already have in your pantry. If you have it, cross it off the list. If you don’t have it, you’ll be buying more to stock up.

Here’s a list of things to get you started. Print it out and check your pantry. Go ahead. I’ll wait. B-)

Oils:
Olive oil (stock up when it’s on sale.)
Vegetable oil
Spices:
Salt, black pepper, oregano, basil, thyme, sage, parsley, rosemary, dill, cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, paprika, chili powder, cumin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
Baking supplies:
Flour, yeast, corn meal, baking powder, baking soda, cornstarch, sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract.
Cooking supplies:
Bouillon cubes, bread crumbs, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, hot sauce, (Tabasco and salsa), lemon juice, lime juice, vinegar, (rice, red wine, and white vinegars,) Italian dressing.
Dry foods:
Pastas, rice, beans, split peas, noodles, potatoes, onions.
Refrigerated staples:
Real butter (not margarine,) eggs, garlic, milk, cream or half ‘n’ half, mayonnaise, mustard.
Nice to have on hand:
Canned fruits, canned tuna, canned cream soups, canned tomatoes, canned beans, one or two baking mixes.


That’s it! This basic list will get you started. You’ll find there are other essentials you like to always have on hand. For me, it’s peanut butter. I love peanut butter, and I try to never run out of it.

With these things in your pantry, you’ll be able to cook a variety of meals, and you’ll have plenty of ingredients to make a quick dessert or treat out of as well.

Happy cooking!