Every cook, whether professional or amateur, has their list of favorite ingredients they keep on hand. These are some of my go-to items for the pantry, freezer, and fridge. In a pinch, having at least these basics on hand will allow you to whip up a meal without having to visit the grocery store.
Pantry Staples
- Beans (Kidney, Black, Garbanzo)
- Breadcrumbs (Panko & Traditional)
- Capers
- Chipotle in Adobo
- Flour (All Purpose)
- Garlic
- Hot Sauce (Tabasco, Cholula, Siracha)
- Low Sodium Stock (Chicken, Beef, Vegetable)
- Marinara (Store bought)
- Oil (Olive, Canola)
- Onions
- Pasta (Whole Wheat & Traditional, at least two different shapes)
- Rice (Long grain white, Instant Brown, Arborio)
- Roasted Red Peppers
- Sugar (White & Light Brown)
- Tomatoes (Crushed and Diced)
- Tortillas (Corn & Flour)
- Vinegar (Red Wine, White Wine, Apple Cider, Distilled White)
Spices
- Basil
- Black Pepper (in a grinder)
- Cayenne Pepper
- Chili Powder
- Chipotle Pepper
- Coriander
- Cumin
- Curry Powder
- Garlic Powder
- Italian Seasoning
- Onion Powder
- Oregano
- Paprika
- Saffron (or Tumeric)
- Sea Salt (Fine)
- Thyme
Fridge
- Bacon (uncured)
- Butter (Unsalted)
- Cheese (Sharp Cheddar, Parmesan, Blue, Feta)
- Eggs
- Half & Half
- Milk
- Lemons
- Limes
- Sour Cream
Freezer
- Chicken (Breasts or Thighs)
- Corn
- Fruit (Mixed Berries, Peaches)
- French or Italian Bread
- Ground Meat
- Uncooked Shrimp