Every cook—whether beginner or seasoned—should stock their pantry with versatile,

 

Every cook—whether beginner or seasoned—should stock their pantry with versatile, long-lasting staples that form the base of countless meals. Here's a solid list, broken into key categories:

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🧂 Spices & Seasonings

• Salt (kosher & fine)

• Black pepper (whole or ground)

• Garlic powder & onion powder

• Paprika (smoked & sweet)

• Chili powder or red pepper flakes

• Dried oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary

• Cumin

• Cinnamon

• Bay leaves

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🛢 Oils & Vinegars

• Olive oil (extra virgin for drizzling, regular for cooking)

• Vegetable or canola oil

• Sesame oil (great for Asian dishes)

• Balsamic vinegar

• Apple cider vinegar

• White vinegar

• Rice vinegar

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🥫 Canned & Jarred Goods

• Canned tomatoes (whole, diced, crushed, or paste)

• Coconut milk

• Canned beans (black, kidney, chickpeas, etc.)

• Broth or stock (chicken, beef, or vegetable)

• Tuna or salmon

• Peanut butter or nut butter

• Jarred olives or capers

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🌾 Dry Goods

• Rice (white, brown, jasmine, basmati)

• Pasta (various shapes)

• Quinoa or couscous

• Lentils (red, green, or brown)

• Flour (all-purpose + whole wheat or specialty)

• Sugar (white, brown, and/or powdered)

• Baking soda & baking powder

• Yeast (dry active or instant)

• Cornstarch

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🍞 Bread & Grains

• Rolled oats or steel-cut oats

• Crackers or breadcrumbs

• Tortillas or flatbreads

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🧁 Baking Basics

• Vanilla extract

• Cocoa powder

• Chocolate chips or bars

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🥄 Condiments & Sauces

• Soy sauce or tamari

• Hot sauce

• Mustard (Dijon or yellow)

• Ketchup

• Mayonnaise

• Worcestershire sauce

• Honey or maple syrup

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📦 Misc. Essentials

• Coffee or tea

• Shelf-stable milk or plant milk

• Foil, parchment paper, zip-top bags, storage containers