Time for a pantry raid
February 3rd, 2010
Pantry seems like the wrong word to use when I have food sharing space with extra toilet paper, cat food, the iron and old CDs in a hallway closet. I wish it were more like a big walk-in area lined with shelves full of non perishables. Organized by color. Ha!
Maybe in my next life. But regardless, pantry items refer to all that food you keep on hand in case you need it. (And all that stuff you bought that you forgot about that’s now covered in dust. And maybe a bag of chips that has 2 chips left and a jar you use for extra change. Whatever.)
What’s in your pantry?
Mine may not look so pretty, but it’s definitely full of awesome ingredients that allow me to make new recipes fairly easily. And I have food on hand to create a healthy meal or batch of muffins anytime.
However you organize your pantry (or don’t) what matters most is what’s in it. Do you have ingredients on hand to whip up a quick meal? Are you able to vary your dishes with an array of condiments? This stuff is key to eating healthy. Without easy food in the house, you are practically begging the delivery guy to come over.
So, what should you have on hand? Here’s a starter list:
Flours White flour is simply an insult to the many gorgeous flours available for your baking!
Oils Olive oil, definitely. And you can ditch the cheap canola. We’re going for oils that occur naturally, without major industrial processing.
Canned items Many fast, healthy meals can start with canned good. But it’s important to read labels very carefully.
Whole Grains Nothing makes a meal cheaper than whole grains from your grocery store’s bulk aisle. Plus, these are nutritional powerhouses.
Sweeteners Naturally occurring sweeteners are best, of course. That artificial stuff has got to go!
Spices Give your food maximum flavor without spending big bucks on spice blends that are mostly salt.
“Weird” stuff Sea vegetables. Miso. Etc. There are lots of healthy food out there you haven’t tried yet. It’s worth a shot – a varied diet is always best!
What else do you love having on hand in the kitchen?
Often I receive emails from readers saying that you want to start changing your diet but don’t know where to start! As an Introductory Package to all my readers, I’m now offering a one-time deal of 1 health coaching session packaged with a pantry makeover. This is a super chance to create a clean slate for you and your family. If you haven’t know where to begin – here’s your chance to take that first step! And if you already have been cooking healthy food and just want to compare notes, this session will be a fun couple of hours to spend together discussing what’s important to you.
Check out details here and take advantage before my schedule is booked up through July!
This post is part of Real Food Wednesdays.
