What are the Essential Ingredients for Gourmet Cooking?
Keep these basic ingredients in your kitchen, and you’ll never be stuck without a dinner plan again!
We’ve got you covered with everything you need. From the absolute essentials for your pantry to handy canned goods, dry staples, spices, fridge and freezer must-haves, and even those little extras that are great to have around. Let’s dive in!
The Basics for a Well-Stocked Kitchen
Here’s a simple guide to the must-haves that’ll keep you ready to whip up a meal any time.
The Essentials
Start with these six staples that no kitchen should be without:
- Salt
- Pepper
- Olive oil
- Vegetable oil
- All-purpose flour
- Granulated sugar
Canned Goods
Canned items are lifesavers for quick meals and flavorful dishes. Chicken and beef broth add depth to gravies and sauces, while tomatoes and beans offer endless options. Here’s what to keep on hand:
- Chicken stock or broth
- Beef stock or broth
- Canned tomatoes
- Tomato sauce
- Tomato paste
- Marinara sauce (can or jar)
- Canned beans (white, black, kidney)
- Tuna
Starches and Dry Goods
Love pasta, rice, or soups? Stock up on these pantry heroes:
- Pasta (a mix of shapes and types)
- Rice (white or brown, long-grain or short-grain)
- Lentils
- Split peas
- Dried bread crumbs
Maldon Salt, Sea Salt Flakes
Maldon Sea Salt Flakes offer a delicate, flaky texture and natural, pure flavor, perfect for seasoning dishes or finishing meals with a burst of flavor.
The Root Cellar Staples
Keep these veggies in a cool, dark place (but not in plastic bags or the fridge):
- Potatoes
- Onions
- Garlic
Condiments
A few key condiments can transform any meal:
- Vinegars (balsamic, cider, white, sherry, or wine)
- Soy sauce
- Worcestershire sauce
- Hot sauce
Spices to Keep on Hand
Your spice rack is your flavor arsenal. Start with these basics:
- Basil
- Bay leaves
- Crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne
- Curry powder
- Seasoned salt
- Chili powder
Bertolli Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Bertolli Extra Virgin Olive Oil offers a smooth, rich flavor, perfect for cooking, dressings, and dipping, made with quality olives for an authentic taste.
- Cumin
- Cinnamon
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Oregano
- Paprika
- Dried parsley
Fridge Staples
These essentials make meals easier and more delicious:
- Eggs
- Milk
- Butter or margarine
- Ketchup
- Mustard (yellow, Dijon, or whole grain)
- Mayonnaise
- Parmesan cheese
- Other cheeses of your choice
Freezer Favorites
Frozen ingredients are perfect for quick and easy meals:
- Corn
- Spinach
- Peas
- Ground beef
- Chicken breasts
La Tourangelle Basil and Garlic Infused Oils Bundle
La Tourangelle Basil and Garlic Infused Oils Bundle combines two flavorful oils, perfect for adding aromatic depth to dressings, marinades, and dishes.
Also Read: What are the Best Gourmet Pasta Dishes to Try?
Extras for Added Flavor
These ingredients are handy for elevating your meals:
- Herbs and spices (like ginger, thyme, rosemary, and more)
- Lemons
- Fresh ginger
- Shallots
- Capers
- Canned chiles
- Prepared horseradish
- Anchovy paste
- Almond extract
- Vanilla extract
- Kosher salt
- Cooking spray
- Cornstarch
- Confectioners’ sugar
- Honey
- Brown sugar
With this lineup of ingredients, you’ll always have what you need to create tasty and satisfying meals!
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