20 Dry Goods for a Kitchen

A well-stocked kitchen is the foundation of delicious home-cooked meals. While perishable items like fruits, vegetables, and meats are essential, it’s equally important to have a variety of dry goods on hand. Dry goods not only have a long shelf life but also add flavor, texture, and versatility to your culinary creations. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, here are 20 essential dry goods for a kitchen that every home needs. My favorite Biscuit Cutter

In a perfect world, every kitchen would have a kitchen pantry nearby. Kitchen cabinets seem to quickly fill up with pots, pans, dishes, utensils, and other items needed to run an efficient meal preparation center. Having a pantry adds to that storage capacity by having things on shelves where they are more easily viewed and accessed.

1. Flour

Flour is a staple in baking and cooking. All-purpose flour serves many purposes, from making bread to thickening sauces. For those who prefer gluten-free options, there are various alternatives like almond flour or gluten-free baking mixes. 7 Important Reasons to Stock White Flour

Many of my readers have chosen to start making homemade bread. You should check out my bread recipes in the link provided above if you haven’t already. For years I used all-purpose flour for my bread creations, but more recently I’ve found that bread flour not only works great for bread, but also other recipes calling for flour.

2. Sugar

Sugar is a sweetener used in countless recipes, from desserts to marinades. Stock both granulated and brown sugar for different flavor profiles. For health-conscious individuals, natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup are great alternatives. How to Stock Sugar & 8 Sensible Reasons Why You Should

It also helps if you have room for powdered sugar, particularly if you make dessert toppings calling for this special sweetener.

3. Salt

Salt is a must-have ingredient that enhances the flavors of dishes. Keep regular table salt and kosher salt in your pantry for different cooking needs. How to Store Salt Long-Term & 9 Rational Reasons You Should

I’ve grown to like Himalayan salt as my cooking ingredient. It is said to have 80 minerals and elements like iron, calcium, and potassium. There are other health benefits you should research and feel comfortable with.

4. Pepper

Freshly ground black pepper adds a burst of flavor to any dish. Invest in a good-quality pepper grinder or mill for the best results.

5. Rice

Rice is an affordable grain that can be used as a side dish or main course. Stock up on different varieties such as long-grain white rice, brown rice, basmati rice, or jasmine rice. Understanding Rice Hoarding

Rice has a long shelf life, particularly varieties of white rice. Brown rice, as a whole grain, has been shown to be more nutrient-rich than white rice since it isn’t milled or refined. Be aware, since brown rice has more oil and fat content you need to check it more often since it can go rancid more quickly.

6. Pasta

Pasta is one of the true pantry staples you’ll want. It is a quick and easy meal option that can be dressed up with various sauces and ingredients. Have a selection of pasta shapes like spaghetti, penne, and fusilli to suit different recipes. Types of Pasta to Stockpile For Emergencies

7. Oats

Oats are a nutritious and filling meal option, particularly for breakfast. They can be used for making oatmeal, granola bars, or adding texture to baked goods. What to Do with Steel Cut Oats Besides Oatmeal

Who doesn’t love oatmeal cookies for snacks? You can add so many tasty ingredients like nuts, raisins, and chocolate chips for unique flavors and textures.

8. Beans

Beans are an excellent source of protein and fiber. Stock up on canned beans like black beans, chickpeas, or kidney beans for quick and easy meal additions. Why And How We All Need To Store Lots Of Beans

9. Lentils

Lentils are another nutritious legume used in soups, stews, or salads. They come in various colors like green, brown, or red lentils.

10. Nuts

Nuts like almonds, walnuts, or cashews are a healthy snack option and add crunch to both sweet and savory dishes. Store them in airtight containers to maintain freshness. Foraging Wild Nuts for Survival Purposes

With my Food Saver attachments to remove the air, I can use glass jars to store nuts in my pantry for a longer period. It’s really convenient since I can see what kind of nut is in each glass jar.

11. Dried Herbs and Spices

Dried herbs and spices add depth and flavor to your cooking. Essentials include oregano, basil, thyme, cumin, cinnamon, and paprika. Experiment with different flavors to suit your taste. Top Herbs That Work Great for Healing

It’s important to use fresh herbs and spices so your recipes taste the way you like them. Be sure to check the “use by date” each time a recipe calls for one of these pantry staples.

12. Baking Powder and Baking Soda

Baking powder and baking soda are leavening agents that help cakes, cookies, and bread rise. Check expiration dates regularly to ensure their effectiveness.

13. Yeast

Yeast is essential for baking bread. Keep active dry yeast and instant yeast in your refrigerator or freezer for different recipes. What is Nutritional Yeast and How Do You Use It?

I’ve found that by keeping my open yeast containers in the fridge the yeast will stay fresh for a longer period. When a reader reaches out and asks why I think their bread didn’t turn out as hoped, I always tell them to check their yeast freshness.

14. Cocoa Powder

Cocoa powder is a must-have for chocolate lovers. Use it for baking cakes, making hot chocolate, or dusting desserts.

15. Vinegar

Vinegar is an amazing ingredient that adds acidity and tang to dishes. Stock white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, and balsamic vinegar for different purposes. Does Vinegar Really Go Bad?

16. Cooking Oil

Having a variety of cooking oils like olive oil, vegetable oil, and coconut oil ensures you have the right oil for different cooking methods and flavor profiles. These oils also need to be checked for freshness each time they’re used so you get the best results possible from each recipe.

17. Canned Tomatoes

Canned tomatoes are a pantry staple for making sauces, stews, and soups. Keep diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and tomato paste on hand. Top Gardening Tips for Growing Tomatoes

18. Stock or Broth

Stock or broth adds depth to soups, sauces, and risottos. Keep both vegetable and chicken stock in your pantry for different recipes. Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

19. Dried Fruit

Dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or apricots add sweetness and texture to baked goods and salads. They also make for a nutritious snack. Tips for Storing Fruits and Vegetables

20. Chocolate Chips

Chocolate chips are a must-have ingredient for making cookies, cakes, and other sweet treats. Keep a stash of dark, milk, and white chocolate chips for indulgent desserts. Chocolate chips are one of the best must-have dry goods for a kitchen. Best Chocolate Cake Ever

Should I plan to have some canned meats in my pantry?

Some people may question if canned goods can be considered dry food products. I sure think so and keep canned goods as an important component of my food storage inventory. I have canned beef, turkey, chicken breast, tuna, and shrimp. I also have shelves well stocked with canned fruits and veggies.

It’s also a good idea to have some condiments on your pantry shelves. I store peanut butter, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, Miracle Whip, various pickle varieties, and other items my family likes.

More Tips

• How To Stock A Pantry
• 10 Pantry Items You Don’t Need
• 11 Things Every Pantry Needs To Cook From Scratch

Final Word

With these essential dry goods in your kitchen, you’ll be well-prepared to create delicious meals and treats. Stock up on these ingredients, so you are prepared for anything that may come your way emergency-wise! May God Bless this World, Linda

Copyright Images: Preparing Dough for Baking Depositphotos_432050554_S by Inna_Dodor, Buttermilk Biscuits Depositphotos_238423076_S by StephanieFrey