What should I have in my kitchen all the

time?

And can you give me a list?

Grab your green bags!

Whether you just got your own place or you just want to start cooking more, there are a number of items you should have in your kitchen all the time.

Let’s go shopping - here’s what you need.

My fool proof list of groceries - these are the staples, the must-haves.

READY?!

Listen, I don’t care how healthy you are - you cannot cook food without some fat. So get over the word “fat” and just keep some around.

You’re welcome!

the FATS

Butter - not margarine, not soy or any other variation. There is no replacement for full-fat, unsalted butter. Always have a few sticks in your fridge.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil - It’s flavorful and can be used for so many things, including super easy homemade salad dressings.

Canola or Vegetable Oil - EVOO can be pricey and isn’t really great for high heat, so keep a bottle of this stuff around.

the GRAINS

Bread, pasta, rice, taco shells! There are so many choices but there are a few that are universal and can be eaten all the time and with any meal. Oh, another thing - WHOLE GRAIN ONLY!

Whole Wheat Sliced Bread - Toast in the morning or a sandwich for lunch, having a loaf of whole wheat bread is always a good idea.

Brown Rice - Not white, not yellow. Anything other than brown rice is basically just little bits of sugar and c’mon, it has ZERO taste. Brown rice comes in a variety of rice styles - short grain, long grain, basmati - take your pick.

All Purpose Flour - Even if you aren’t a baker having a bag of flour is always a good idea. There are lots of different reasons you’ll need it. And, okay, this is the white variety. It’s the only exception to the WHOLE GRAIN ONLY rule.

BONUS: Rolled Oats - This isn’t a staple but it’s a GREAT thing to have around. They provide a nutritious breakfast and can go in smoothies or assist in making veggie burgers.

the LEAN PROTEINS

It’s more than meat! These lean proteins are things you should stock up on weekly or just have on hand in your pantry.

Peanut Butter - It stays for a long time and is a great source of protein. You can eat it for breakfast, lunch and dinner...and dessert!

Canned Tuna or Sardines - Another great source of lean protein that keeps for a long time is canned fish. Tuna is probably easier for most folks to stomach but if you are feeling adventurous pick up a can of sardines!

Eggs - Breakfast, lunch and dinner! These are an easy, quick and delicious way to get some good lean protein. I prefer to always get Large eggs - but you can get any size you want. Oh - and there is no difference between brown and white eggs.

Meat - No, I didn’t forget about the meat. It’s good to choose lean meat options, like chicken or certain cuts of pork. Choose whatever you like and eat it but don’t over-indulge!

Beans and Nuts - Other great options to have around are of the beans and nuts categories. Almonds, peanuts, cashews, black beans, lentils - whatever you love.

NEXT UP: They aren’t staples but they are good to have.I didn’t include any fruits or vegetables on the prior list because these are things that you will need to pick up more frequently. Things like chicken and pork can be purchased in bulk and put in the freezer for months, so you can stock up!

Here are some other things you’ll likely want around if you’re planning on cooking.

VEGETABLES: The usual suspects

FRUIT: The usual suspects

Some stragglers

So much YUM!

The next step is to find recipes you want to try. They will give you a shopping list and you’ll just need to fill the gaps.

Having a properly stocked kitchen is the first step to becoming a brilliant cook. Next time, I’ll give you a week’s worth of recipes and the entire shopping list.

Together we can stop eating crappy take out and start cooking nutritious meals!

Did I miss anything you consider a staple? Let me know!

sophreakincool sophreakincool

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