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Pantry “Must Haves”

Even if you don’t have an actual “pantry” chances are that you have a default cupboard or drawer where you keep the in case of emergency or “Oh hell, 5 people just walked in the door and now I have to feed them” supplies.

There are certain things that I always have in my pantry, no matter what, and they’ve proven useful time and time again. It’s not like you have to have anĀ  entire freaking grocery store tucked away for a rainy day, but there are a few things that can save your butt if you keep them on hand. Every one is different depending on their personal tastes, but my pantry/freezer/cupboard must haves are;

  • Coconut milk
  • Canned diced tomatoes
  • Chicken & beef stock
  • Chinese rice noodles
  • Canned baby beets
  • A wedge of good aged Parmesan
  • Pickled ginger
  • Garlic
  • Pine nuts (Keep them in the freezer and roast small batches as you need them)
  • Sun dried tomatoes (again, I always have a stash in the freezer)
  • Canned corn
  • Anchovy paste
  • Capers
  • Olives
  • Tabasco sauce
  • Bottled lemon & lime juices
  • Half baked freezer baguettes
  • Curry paste
  • Some type of bottled sauce like Hoisin, sweet chili, etc.

With your ordinary staples like pasta, rice, fresh veg, etc…. you could throw any number of these things together and make a rather wicked meal. I’m no “Prepare for the apocalypse! Get the army issue vacuum sealed rations in the closet” kinda gal but I do like to be able to whip up a great feed on short notice.

So it’s all about the pantry must haves.

What are yours?

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