Stocking a Winter Pantry
Step 1
Bulk up on protein-rich items. Canned tuna fish, peanut butter, nuts (keep frozen) and many varieties of beans; both dried and canned provide this important nutrient in space-saving containers. Nuts and fish also are rich in healthy omega-3 fats.
Step 2
Pack in hearty, filling staples such as cereals, grains, rice, pasta, crackers, oatmeal, flours, soups and chicken, beef and vegetable broths. Honey, sugars, and natural sweeteners.
Step 3
Choose produce that will last longer. Some fruits and vegetables to consider include winter squash, potatoes, onions, kale and winter greens. Dried soup bases are also good to have on hand. Make sure your spices are fresh and you always have Rosemary, Thyme, Oregano, Basel, Dried Mustard, Garlic, Onion, Parsely, Black Pepper, Sea Salt.
Step 4
Purchase canned and dried items for cooking and baking. Canned whole or diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Include plenty of dried fruits, cherries,cranberries,blueberries and apricots.
Step 5
Stock up on baking ingredients such as baking soda, baking powder, corn starch, chocolate chips, nuts and cooking yeast. Cream of tarter can be the "magic ingredient" that if left out simply won't do!
Step 6
Include special "quick" treats for cold nights such as hot cocoa, microwave popcorn, instant pudding and gelatin.
Step 7
Make sure you have plenty of beverages, especially a couple of large containers of fresh drinking water and fruit juices. Sparkling cider or grape juice is nice if someone does not drink wine or alcohol. Of course having a basic wine supply is a must but store them in a cool dark place.
Step 8
Label the spot of each category in your pantry inventory. Place labels to shelves for each category of food item. Enjoy being prepared!
