Grateful Grits

It’s no secret that every kitchen has its unique needs. Various factors come into play when it comes to influencing the food we prepare and enjoy. As we’ve discussed before, allergies and food intolerances can significantly impact how we handle food and what we include in our meals. Additionally, our ethnicity and geographical location play a substantial role in shaping our culinary preferences. That said, in this blog, I’d like to delve into what I consider essential in a well-stocked pantry. These are the items I consistently keep on hand and never allow to run out. Of course, your pantry might not look exactly like mine, as personal tastes vary. Some ingredients may be unused in your kitchen, or you may need to make substitutions due to dietary restrictions, and that’s perfectly fine.

Cooking Oils

No matter where you fall on the culinary expertise spectrum, one thing’s for sure: your kitchen is incomplete without an array of cooking oils at your disposal. While many enthusiasts sing the praises of vegetable or canola oil, I’ve had to take a different route due to some health concerns that have cropped up. You won’t find those oils anywhere near my pantry. Instead, I’ve pledged my loyalty to the ever-reliable olive oil, which has become my go-to companion in the kitchen. However, before you leap into the olive oil bandwagon, there’s a caveat – not all olive oils are created equal, and you’ll want to dig into the details to make an informed choice. You see, some olive oils out there aren’t as pure or genuine as they claim to be.

Now, while olive oil is my kitchen confidante for most culinary endeavors, there is one caveat you need to bear in mind. It’s best suited for medium to low heat cooking. So, when the heat cranks up to high levels, let me introduce you to my trusty sidekick: grapeseed oil. It’s a game-changer when you’re faced with high-temperature cooking tasks, and the best part is, it’s as neutral as Switzerland when it comes to taste – practically flavorless.

When you’re navigating the wide world of cooking oils, another fantastic option to have in your arsenal is avocado oil. This versatile oil is a splendid choice for various heat applications, and it even comes in a handy spray form, making it a go-to for greasing your baking sheets. Plus, its subtle flavor won’t overshadow the star of your culinary show.

If you’re a fan of Asian cuisine, sesame oil deserves a special spot on your culinary shelf. It boasts a unique, nutty flavor that can utterly transform a dish into an authentic Asian delight. Just be aware of its potent taste, and use it thoughtfully in your recipes.

In the grand scheme of your culinary journey, the choice of cooking oil might seem like a trivial detail, but it can profoundly impact the flavors and textures of your dishes. No matter which oil you decide to incorporate into your cooking repertoire, always keep a watchful eye on their respective heat tolerances, as this can make or break your culinary creations. So, go forth and oil up your culinary canvas, but do so wisely, and let your dishes shine brighter than ever before!

Baking Essentials

Now, while I wouldn’t go so far as to label myself a bona fide baking enthusiast, I do have a cozy relationship with flour in my culinary escapades. Baking, in my kitchen, makes an occasional cameo appearance rather than claiming the starring role. Most often, I find my flour stash being employed to craft the perfect roux or to weave its magic in the alchemy of sauce-thickening. You see, when it comes to these culinary conjurations, all-purpose flour is an absolute must-have in my pantry. It’s the Swiss Army knife of flours, ready to tackle any thickening task with a nonchalant flair.

Now, for those of you who find yourselves donning the baker’s apron more frequently, the allure of self-rising flour might be too tempting to resist. This specialized flour is your backstage pass to whipping up those fluffy biscuits and scones with minimal effort. It’s the secret weapon in many a baker’s arsenal.

But, if your baking soirees are more sporadic, fret not! A well-stocked pantry doesn’t always have to burst at the seams. You can still achieve baking brilliance with just all-purpose flour and a dash of improvisation. Grab a cup of your trusty all-purpose flour, throw in 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, and don’t forget a pinch of salt (about ½ teaspoon), and voilà! You’ve conjured up your very own self-rising flour substitute, tailor-made for your occasional forays into the world of baking.

In the realm of sauce-thickening, when you find yourself without all-purpose flour, cornstarch steps up as a worthy understudy. It’s a powerful thickening agent, ready to step into the limelight whenever the roux is not an option. Its ability to effortlessly transform liquids into silky, luscious sauces is truly enchanting.

Now, let’s not forget about our gluten-sensitive friends. The good news is, there’s a wide array of gluten-free all-purpose flour brands gracing the market these days. Among these, my personal favorite is Bob’s Red Mill. It closely mimics the performance of traditional flour without carrying the off-putting taste that some gluten-free alternatives tend to possess. So, you can continue crafting your culinary masterpieces without compromising on flavor or texture.

In the end, whether you’re a full-fledged baker or just a culinary dabbler like me, the humble flour in your pantry is a versatile ally, ready to adapt to your creative whims and bring your culinary visions to life. So, keep that flour canister close at hand, and let your culinary adventures rise to new heights!

Let’s dive into the delightful world of ingredients that often get pigeonholed as baking essentials but can, in fact, strut their stuff in savory culinary creations. Take sugar and its rustic cousin, brown sugar, for instance. These sweet darlings aren’t confined to the domain of sweets. They play a versatile role, sneaking into savory dishes and adding a layer of complexity that’s nothing short of culinary magic. Don’t believe me? Try incorporating a touch of sugar into your marinades, and witness how it balances the flavors and tenderizes your meats. Even some spaghetti sauces can benefit from a pinch of sugar to mellow out the acidity of the tomatoes.

Now, let’s turn our attention to the maverick of the sweet world: vanilla extract. While it may have made its name in the realm of confectionery, it has a secret life that’s equally enchanting. A mere drop or a fragrant vanilla bean can weave wonders in the realm of savory delights. For instance, try adding a hint of vanilla to your mashed sweet potatoes. The result? A dish that boasts a subtle, aromatic twist that’s nothing short of epic.

While baking soda might seem like the ultimate sweet tooth’s sidekick, don’t underestimate its versatility. It’s not just a culinary hero; it’s a secret cleaning agent too. So, I always make sure to keep it in bulk. Yes, it might be the key to fluffy cakes and cookies, but it’s also a fantastic cleaning tool. A sprinkle of baking soda can work wonders in scrubbing away grime and odors in your kitchen and beyond. This humble white powder is your trusty sidekick, whether you’re in the mood for baking or in need of a quick cleanup.

So, as you navigate the world of cooking and baking, don’t be too quick to pigeonhole your ingredients. Sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and even baking soda are culinary chameleons, ready to surprise your taste buds and assist you in the most unexpected ways. Keep these versatile treasures at arm’s length, and let your culinary adventures reach new heights!

In my household, we go through broth like there’s no tomorrow. Both chicken and beef broth play a crucial role in a multitude of dishes. A simple gravy, for instance, can elevate any dish by crafting a roux and adding a cup of broth along with a dash of Worcestershire sauce. For those with vegetarian preferences, vegetable broth is remarkably flavorful, and it’s the perfect substitution when expecting vegetarian guests. However, do keep in mind that Worcestershire sauce is crafted with anchovies, so if your guests are not pescatarian, you may want to consider substituting soy sauce or omitting it entirely.

Miscellaneous

In our bustling household, we seem to have an insatiable appetite for broth. Chicken and beef broth, to be precise, are the unsung heroes that make frequent appearances in our kitchen. These flavorful elixirs play a pivotal role in an array of dishes that grace our table. Consider a simple gravy, for instance – a culinary gem that can effortlessly elevate any dish to new heights. Craft a velvety roux, introduce a cup of broth into the mix, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce for that extra umami kick. The result is a savory masterpiece that tantalizes the taste buds.

For those with vegetarian inclinations, a hearty vegetable broth takes center stage, boasting a remarkable depth of flavor. It’s not just a substitution; it’s a flavorful enhancement, especially when you’re expecting vegetarian guests. Just a friendly reminder, though – Worcestershire sauce often sneaks in a hint of anchovies. So, if you have non-pescatarian friends at the table, you might want to consider opting for soy sauce or omitting it altogether.

My culinary journey leans heavily towards the delicious realms of Italian and French cuisine. These recipes, while exquisite in taste, also have the charming habit of yielding generous leftovers. And who can resist the allure of leftovers? That’s why my pantry is always stocked with a stash of tomato paste, tomato sauce, and crushed tomatoes. Tomato paste, in particular, is a versatile dynamo, infusing a rich tomato flavor into any dish while maintaining a velvety texture. Tomato sauce, on the other hand, is the perfect partner for taco or nacho meat, especially when combined with a dry seasoning packet. It’s also an indispensable addition to many slow cooker recipes. Tomatoes, you see, are a culinary cornerstone, transcending boundaries and finding a permanent home in my pantry.

Now, let’s shift our culinary spotlight to grains and pasta. Here, personal preferences take center stage, and my pantry is no exception. It’s where you’ll usually find the classics: spaghetti, linguine, and lasagna noodles, with occasional appearances by elbow, penne, or rotini. The beauty of pasta lies in its versatility, and there’s no wrong choice – it’s all about what tickles your taste buds. Speaking of lasagna, if you’re planning on indulging in this decadent dish, I’d highly recommend no-boil noodles, unless you’re crafting those delightful roll-ups. The taste difference is practically negligible, and they significantly streamline the cooking process. Don’t let a gluten-free lifestyle stop you from enjoying pasta. The world of gluten-free products has made significant strides. Experiment with various brands, and you’re bound to discover one that perfectly fits your taste.

Additionally, my pantry is well-stocked with an array of rice varieties. Jasmine and arborio rice are my personal favorites. Arborio rice, in particular, steals the show when it comes to crafting the perfect risotto, with its signature creamy texture. Brown rice is another worthy contender, though it might require a tad more patience during the cooking process. And for our vegetarian friends, quinoa steps up to the plate, offering a substantial protein boost.

Now, this list I’ve shared is by no means exhaustive, but it’s a starting point that equips you to embark on culinary adventures or follow many of my cherished recipes. Remember, personal taste plays a monumental role in shaping your pantry. Feel free to tweak and tailor this list to your own culinary inclinations. If you find this information helpful, fantastic! If you have any questions or need further guidance, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Happy cooking, and may your culinary journeys be filled with delicious discoveries!

Quick List

Olive Oil

Grapeseed Oil

Avocado Spray/Oil

All purpose flour

Cornstarch

Baking Powder

Baking Soda

Self Rising Flour (Maybe)

Chicken Broth

Beef Broth

Vegetable Broth (maybe)

Worcestershire Sauce

Sugar

Brown Sugar

Tomato Sauce

Tomato Paste

Crushed Tomatoes

Rice (your choice)

Pasta (your choice)