Here’s How We’ve Stocked Our Pantries to Make Meals Go Farther
Like most of you, we’re likewise trying to reduce trips to the market while still being able to whip up healthy and delicious meals at home.
Having delicious, high-quality proteins delivered right to your doorstep is a great place to start. And, having a well-stocked pantry, chock full of items that pair perfectly with your center of plate proteins will help you go the distance. Not only will you be able to create a variety of dishes, you’ll also maximize the value of each of your deliveries.
Here’s how we’ve stocked our pantries:
Spices — Garlic, cumin, dried parsley, basil, chives, sage, rosemary, ginger root…the list goes on. A simple change in spices added to your favorite proteins will add a whole new spin on even your most go-to, go-to dishes. Learn more about how to season food here, and about our favorite spice for summer here.
Condiments and cousins of — In addition to spices, herbs, and other flavor boosters will add much-needed variety to your home cooking. Fresh ginger, onions, and garlic last a long time when stored properly and make everything taste good. Try lesser-used condiments such as Gochujang and Sriracha for fresh new flavors. Our guide to elevating your condiment game can be found here. And, of course, Worcestershire sauce, anchovies, and chili and curry pastes will always be favorites for meat and chicken dishes.
Frozen vegetables — Yes, fresh is always better when in season, or when you don’t have to go to the market during a global pandemic. Still, otherwise, frozen vegetables are a great option. Most are picked at the peak of ripeness and don’t use preservatives, so they are rich in flavor and still full of nutrients. Mix and match different vegetables and proteins with pasta and sauce combinations or keep it simple with spices over rice. Same goes for frozen vegetables…chicken with pineapple, anyone?
Beans, beans, and more beans — Whether cooked-from-dry or canned, beans are delicious, economical, and easily pair with proteins. Load them into beef or seafood stews! Stew them with canned tomatoes, olive oil, and seafood. Make New Orleans red beans and shrimp! Or how about black beans and beef tostadas! Chili! Chicken with white beans! Ranchero beans, rice and Berkshire pork! The list goes on!
Pasta — Dried pasta is a must. Nothing soothes the soul like a big bowl of pasta, and you can experiment with different sauces, flavorings, and proteins with little risk of failure. And with so many shapes and sizes to choose from (at last count, there are an estimated 350 different types), you aren’t likely to suffer from pasta ennui anytime soon.