Your pantry is your culinary foundation. It’s stocked with the ingredients you need to make your favorite meals and the staples you rely on when you’re in a pinch. But what should you always have on hand? Here are nine staple food items you always want in your pantry.
1. Rice
Rice is a versatile staple that can be used in a variety of dishes. Rice is always a good choice whether you’re making a stir-fry or curry or want a quick and easy side dish. For an easy meal, cook rice in broth with some veggies and protein for a complete one-pot meal. Or, try using leftover rice to make fried rice.
2. Pasta
Pasta is a type of noodle and one of the staple foods in many cultures. It is made from an unleavened dough of wheat flour or semolina and water. When it comes to pasta, there are two main types: dry and fresh. Dry pasta is made from durum wheat and typically has a yellowish color. It is typically sold in packages and has a shelf life of up to two years. On the other hand, fresh pasta is made from eggs and wheat flour. It has a shorter shelf life and must be refrigerated.
3. Chili Oil
Chili oil is a flavored oil used as a cooking ingredient. It is made from vegetable oil, soybean oil, and dried chili peppers. The chili peppers give the oil its characteristic pungent and fiery taste. Chili oil adds flavor and heat to dishes, such as stir-fries, marinades, and sauces.
You can also make your own chili oil at home. There are many resources explaining how to make chili oil online. You should be able to find a recipe that meets your needs and preferences.
4. Soy Sauce
Soy sauce is a liquid condiment from soybeans, wheat, salt, and water. It is used in East Asian cuisines as a dipping sauce, marinade, or ingredient in cooked dishes. Sometimes, soy sauce is also used as a natural food coloring.
Soy sauce has a distinct salty, umami flavor that can enhance the taste of many dishes. You can use soy sauce as a marinade for meats or vegetables or add it to soups or sauces for an extra flavor boost.
5. Vegetable Oil
Vegetable oil is a type of oil that is extracted from vegetables. The most common vegetable oils are soybean, rapeseed, and sunflower. Vegetable oils are used in cooking, baking, and deep frying. They are also used as ingredients in some processed foods.
Vegetable oils are a good source of essential fatty acids and can improve the taste of many dishes. They can also be a healthy alternative to other oils, such as olive oil. When choosing vegetable oil, it is essential to choose one high in healthy and low in saturated fats.
6. White Pepper
White pepper is a type of pepper harvested from the Piper nigrum plant. The berries are picked when they are ripe and then the outer layer is removed to reveal the inner white pepper seed. White pepper is less pungent than black pepper and has a milder, more delicate flavor.
White pepper is commonly used in European and Asian cuisines. It can add flavor to soups, sauces, and marinades. White pepper can also be used as a garnish or ingredient in many dishes.
7. Flours
Flour is a powder from grinding wheat, rye, barley, or other grains. It is the main ingredient in bread, pasta, pastry, and many other baked goods. Flours are also used as a thickening agent in soups and sauces.
There are many different types of flour, including wheat flour, rye flour, barley flour, and buckwheat flour. Each type of flour has a different flavor and texture. When choosing flour, choosing one that is appropriate for the dish you are making is essential.
8. Grains
Grains are small, hard, dry seeds that come from plants in the grass family. Grains are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They can be used in various dishes, including bread, pasta, cereal, and rice. When choosing grains, it is essential to choose whole and unprocessed.
9. Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds are a type of fruit that contains a hard shell. Nuts are a source of fiber, protein, and healthy fats. Seeds are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Conclusion
Nuts and seeds can be used in various dishes, including baked goods, cereals, and granola. They can also be used as a topping for salads or yogurt. When choosing nuts and seeds, it is essential to choose raw and unsalted ones.
A well-stocked kitchen should have a variety of spices, condiments, and ingredients on hand. These basics can be used to enhance the flavor of many dishes.