A pantry takes different shapes for different people; from a dedicated room filled with shelves to a compact cabinet housing dried goods. Regardless of its size, a pantry serves a crucial purpose – storing cooking essentials, dried goods, and items with a longer shelf life. It's the starting point for many meals and a saving grace when the grocery run is overdue.
In the UAE, curating a well-stocked pantry is not just a convenience; it's a culinary necessity. Here’s a curated list of pantry essentials to elevate your kitchen experience:
Oats & Grains:
- Rolled oats
- Steel-cut oats
- White rice (such as jasmine or basmati)
- Brown rice
- Assorted grains (quinoa, couscous, or farro)
Baking Essentials:
- All-purpose flour
- Alternative flours (almond, oat, or gluten-free)
- Baking soda
- Baking powder
- Vanilla extract
- Cocoa powder
- Chocolate chips
- Optional: Boxed cake or cookie mixes
Nuts, Seeds & Nut Butters:
- Almonds
- Cashews
- Walnuts
- Small seeds (chia, hemp, or flax seeds)
- Larger seeds (sunflower or pumpkin seeds)
- Peanut or almond butter
Beans & Legumes:
- Black beans and/or Great Northern beans
- Garbanzo beans
- Lentils
Condiments & Sauces:
- Mustard (yellow and/or Dijon)
- Ketchup
- Mayonnaise
- Soy sauce
- Hot sauce
- Pasta sauce(s)
- Tahini
- Miso
- Maple syrup
Meat, Fish & Protein:
- Canned salmon or tuna
- Canned sardines or anchovies
- Shelf-stable tofu
- Dried meat sticks or jerky
Sweeteners:
- Cane sugar
- Brown sugar
- Honey
- Optional: Sugar alternatives (monk fruit or stevia)
Oils & Vinegar:
- Olive oil
- Vegetable oil
- Balsamic vinegar
- Apple cider vinegar
This comprehensive list caters to the diverse cooking styles in the UAE, ensuring your pantry is always ready to bring the flavors of the region to your table. Start building your dream pantry today for a kitchen that's both well-prepared and inspired.
Essential Pantry Staples for Culinary Mastery
In the heart of every kitchen, cooking oils and vinegars are the unsung heroes that enhance flavors and elevate dishes. Ensuring these staples are well-stocked is a kitchen must-do, as they are among the most frequently used items.
Cooking Oils:
- Extra virgin olive oil (ideal for dressings or low-heat cooking)
- Avocado or canola oil (or another high-heat oil)
Vinegars:
- White wine vinegar
- Balsamic vinegar
- Apple cider vinegar
Spices & Dried Herbs: No meal should ever lack flavor, and your pantry's herb and spice selection ensures culinary success.
- Salt (both fine and coarse)
- Pepper
- Oregano
- Parsley
- Basil
- Coriander
- Chili powder
- Red pepper flakes
- Paprika
- Cinnamon
- Cumin
- Thyme
- Garlic powder
Meal Starters: Ensure your pantry is ready for any culinary adventure with these versatile meal starters.
- Dried, long pasta (like spaghetti or linguine)
- Dried, short pasta (such as fusilli, penne, or elbows)
- Boxed macaroni and cheese
- Canned soups
- Dal or other legume-based dinners
- Vegetable or chicken broth
- Canned or tinned meal starters
By keeping these essentials on hand, you transform your pantry into a culinary haven, ready to inspire creativity and delight your taste buds with every dish. Elevate your cooking experience by ensuring these foundational items are always within reach.