Still wondering how you ate most of your quarantine food in the first week? It may be getting harder to find everything you need to create that perfect dish at home, and trips to the grocery store a far and in-between with social distancing in place. If you are anything like me, you might have a pantry partially stocked of rice, canned goods or a jam-packed freezer.
Get down and a (little) dirty with recipe recommendations you can pull off, utilizing simple pantry ingredients. Here’s to becoming the skilled home cook you were always meant to be!
Fruits and Veggies (Frozen or Fresh)
Staying healthy while in quarantine mode is super important, so getting your daily nutrients is a must. Although fresh is sometimes better, it is worth stocking up on frozen fruits and vegetables. Whether you use frozen peas, corn or broccoli, have a look at these recipes to create a simple omelet or a great stir fry. Frozen fruits are perfect for smoothies as breakfast or a snack, as well as making a jam, which works well as a topping for bread or pancakes.
Root Vegetables
Having potatoes, their ‘sweet’ variety or any root vegetable as a matter of fact, in your pantry can also come in handy. If you are feeling a little creative, why don’t you have a go at making gnocchi, it’s a simple dish using minimal ingredients? You can also try your luck at baked sweet potato or roasted parsnips.
Flour
One of the main ingredients that people seem to stock up on is flour. Currently, you might have a week or months supply of it, and not sure what to make. No need to worry, whether you are looking for a sweet or savory dish, many recipes use flour as their hero ingredient. If you are looking for something savory; bread or pizza dough is a great place to start. Alternatively, if you have more of a sweet tooth, then you can’t go wrong with this pancake or cookie recipe.
Rice
Rice is another staple that many choose to stock up on, as a little bit goes a long way. If you usually serve it on the side with some steamed vegetables, there are other recipes that pack tons of flavor. A popular go-to is fried rice, which you can utilize your frozen vegetables in; or you can go the risotto route. If you are looking for a sweet alternative, then have a peek at this rice pudding recipe.
Pasta
Pasta is always a crowd favorite, and the varieties are plentiful, just take a look at your pantry. There are many recipes you can create for dinner which you will love. Some popular pasta dishes include spaghetti bolognese, mac and cheese or a simple pasta bake. If you have any leftover bolognese sauce, you can also use it to make a hearty lasagna.
Eggs
One way to get a good source protein and Vitamin D (since you will be indoors more) is by consuming eggs. Eggs can be stored in your refrigerator for 5 weeks, and are great on their own, or as a staple for many dishes. A fun breakfast or these days, anytime option is a breakfast burrito. A super easy tortilla recipe can be found here. You could also consider making a frittata, egg muffins or shakshuka. Homemade brunch never looked better!
Canned Foods
Canned foods are great for stocking up because of their long shelf life. One way you can utilize your canned beans or oily fish (sardines, salmon, tuna) is with a sandwich or hummus dip of your own. If dips are not your thing, check out these recipes for baked beans or red beans and rice.
Meat and Poultry
Meat eater? Meat and/or poultry are great to stock up on, as they can be stored in the freezer for up to about a year. Ground beef is a great starting point if you are unsure of what to buy, as you can make homemade burgers or meatballs. If you prefer chicken, check out this fried chicken recipe, or maybe you’re a buffalo wing person.
Whether you already have all or most of these ingredients or need to do a quick online shop, surely, it can make home cooking a little bit easier. Check out FreshDirect, Amazon Fresh, or Instacart for your pantry needs.
