You’re standing in the middle of your kitchen, scratching your head. You’ve got a recipe, a hankering, but when you open your pantry, you’re missing a key ingredient. Sound familiar? Maybe it’s time to take a page out of your grandparents’ book and keep certain staples on hand.
Back in their day, they knew the importance of a well-stocked pantry. Not only did it mean they could whip up a meal at a moment’s notice, but it also saved them time and money. Here are 16 pantry staples that your grandparents always had at their fingertips.
1. Flour
Flour is the cornerstone of many dishes, from baking bread to thickening sauces and making pasta. Your grandparents probably kept a large bag of all-purpose flour in their pantry, as it can be used in most recipes.
Flour is also an economical choice. Buying in bulk can save you money, and since flour has a long shelf life, you don’t have to worry about it going bad before you use it all. Just be sure to store it in a cool, dry place.
2. Sugar
Like flour, sugar is a versatile ingredient that your grandparents probably always had on hand. Whether they were making cookies, sweetening their coffee, or preserving fruit, sugar was a must-have.
While there are many types of sugar, white granulated sugar is a safe bet for most recipes. It’s also cheap and has a long shelf life, making it a practical choice for any pantry.
3. Canned Tomatoes
Canned tomatoes are a staple in many recipes, from pasta sauces to soups and stews. They’re also a great source of nutrients, including vitamin C and potassium.
Your grandparents likely had a stack of canned tomatoes in their pantry, ready to be used at a moment’s notice. They’re a convenient and affordable way to add flavor and nutrition to your meals.
4. Rice
Rice is a versatile and filling ingredient that can be served as a side dish or incorporated into a main course. It comes in many varieties, each with its own unique texture and flavor.
Your grandparents probably had a large bag of rice in their pantry. It’s affordable, has a long shelf life, and can be used in a wide range of dishes. Whether you’re making a stir-fry, a casserole, or a simple bowl of rice and beans, this pantry staple is a must-have.
5. Pasta
Pasta is a quick and easy meal solution that your grandparents probably relied on regularly. It’s versatile, filling, and can be dressed up with a variety of sauces and toppings.
Keeping a variety of pasta shapes in your pantry will ensure you’re ready for any recipe. Consider stocking up on spaghetti, penne, and macaroni, as these are commonly used in many dishes.
6. Baking Soda
Baking soda is a must-have for any baker. It’s used as a leavening agent in baking, helping doughs and batters rise.
Your grandparents likely kept a box of baking soda in their pantry. It’s inexpensive, has a long shelf life, and is used in many recipes. Plus, it can also be used for cleaning and deodorizing around the house.
7. Dried Beans
Dried beans are a nutritious and affordable food that your grandparents probably had in their pantry. They’re a good source of protein, fiber, and other nutrients, and they can be used in a wide variety of dishes.
To prepare dried beans, you’ll need to soak them in water overnight, then cook them until they’re tender. You can then use them in soups, stews, chili, and more.
8. Canned Tuna
Canned tuna is a convenient and versatile protein that your grandparents likely kept on hand. It’s a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, and it can be used in a wide variety of dishes.
From tuna sandwiches to tuna casserole, this pantry staple can be used in a variety of ways. Plus, it has a long shelf life, making it a practical addition to any pantry.
9. Vinegar
Vinegar is a versatile ingredient that can be used for cooking, cleaning, and even health remedies. Your grandparents probably had a bottle of vinegar in their pantry, ready to be used at a moment’s notice.
From making salad dressings to pickling vegetables, vinegar is a useful ingredient to have on hand. It’s also inexpensive and has a long shelf life, making it a practical choice for any pantry.
10. Salt
Salt is a crucial ingredient in most recipes. It enhances the flavor of food and is essential for certain cooking techniques, like brining and pickling.
Your grandparents probably had a large container of table salt in their pantry. While there are many different types of salt available today, table salt is a versatile option that can be used in most recipes.
11. Pepper
Like salt, pepper is a basic seasoning that your grandparents likely had in their pantry. It adds a kick of flavor to dishes and can be used in a wide variety of recipes.
Keeping a pepper mill in your kitchen will ensure you always have fresh, flavorful pepper at your fingertips. It’s a small investment that can make a big difference in your cooking.
12. Mustard
Mustard is a versatile condiment that can be used in a variety of dishes. It adds a tangy, spicy flavor that can enhance meats, dressings, and more.
Your grandparents probably had a jar of mustard in their pantry. It’s a practical ingredient to have on hand, as it has a long shelf life and can be used in many different recipes.
13. Honey
Honey is a natural sweetener that can be used in a variety of dishes, from baking to marinades. It also has medicinal properties, and can be used to soothe a sore throat or a cough.
Your grandparents likely had a jar of honey in their pantry. It’s a versatile ingredient that has a long shelf life, making it a practical addition to any pantry.
14. Cooking Oil
Cooking oil is a staple in any kitchen. It’s used for frying, sautéing, baking, and more.
Your grandparents probably had a bottle of cooking oil in their pantry. While there are many types of cooking oil available today, vegetable oil is a versatile option that can be used in most recipes.
15. Peanut Butter
Peanut butter is a versatile ingredient that can be used in both savory and sweet dishes. It’s also a good source of protein and healthy fats.
Your grandparents likely had a jar of peanut butter in their pantry. It’s a practical ingredient to have on hand, as it has a long shelf life and can be used in a variety of recipes.
16. Oats
Oats are a nutritious and filling food that your grandparents probably had in their pantry. They’re a good source of fiber and can be used in a wide variety of dishes, from oatmeal to granola and baked goods.
Keeping a large container of oats in your pantry will ensure you always have a healthy breakfast option on hand. Plus, they’re cheap and have a long shelf life, making them a practical choice for any pantry.
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