In a perfect world, we would use everything 100% fresh. But, we can’t. If you have these things on hand, you will always be able to whip up a delicious meals that will be better for you and your family without resorting to packaged garbage, or the drive-thru.
This list is just things to always have on hand. You will also buy various other foods, but when you have these basics in he house, you can put together all sorts of things in a pinch.
Seasonings
Basil
Black peppercorns for grinding, or bottle that has the grinder right on it.
Cayenne Pepper
Celery Seed
Cilantro
Cinnamon
Cumin
Coriander
Crushed Red Pepper
Curry Powder
Garlic Powder
Ginger
Oregano
Paprika
Rosemary
Thyme
I also keep a selection of Mrs. Dash seasonings, and Lemon Pepper seasoning.
Pantry Items
Your favorite vinegars –
Balsamic Vinegar or
Wine Vinegar or
Rice Vinegar (smoother taste)
Olive Oil
Italian Dressing
Soy Sauce (low sodium recommended)
Teriyaki Sauce
Worcestershire Sauce
Yellow Mustard
Dijon Mustard
Barbecue Sauce
Ketchup
Selection of olives, pickles…
Rice
Spaghetti or Mostaccioli
Real Maple Syrup
Honey
Peanut Butter
Pre-cooked Bacon (very handy!)
Chicken bullion cubes
Beef bullion cubes
Flour
Brown Sugar (make sure its pure cane sugar)
Sugar (again, pure cane sugar)
Chocolate Chips
Pure Vanilla Extract
Cornstarch
Lemon Juice
Lime Juice
Canned Petite Diced Tomatoes
Tomato Paste
Canned or jarred green chili peppers
Canned or jarred jalapeno peppers (I prefer jarred)
Refried beans
Black Beans
Fresh Foods-
Always have chicken breasts in the freezer. You can always make a quick dinner. Single wrapped chicken breasts will thaw quickly in cold water.
Fresh Garlic
Red and/or Green Bell Peppers
Onions
Green Onions
Broccoli
Carrots
Lettuce
Tomatoes
Broccoli
Carrots
Corn
Green Beans
And/or your favorite fruits and vegetables
Lemon
Lime
Banana
Berries
Butter
Eggs
Orange Juice
Mayonnaise
Cheese
Parmesan Cheese
Shredded Cheese (I keep mozzarella and Mexican or sharp cheddar on hand)
Flour Tortillas
Frozen berries –
Raspberries
Strawberries
Blueberries
I buy fresh French bread and as soon as I get home – cut it into 6 inch pieces and put into freezer bags. Very handy.
If you really want to be prepared for anything- here are the most common liquors used in cooking-
Brandy
Cognac
Red Wine
Sherry
White Wine
Refer to the fast cooking tips in this section for more help –
