The Art of Pantry Staples
We believe in the art of a well-stocked pantry. Imagine flipping through a cookbook, discovering a recipe that excites you, and realizing you already have most of the ingredients. While you might need to grab a few fresh items, having a pantry stocked with both specialty delights and everyday essentials streamlines your cooking experience. It's about embracing convenience without compromising on quality and taste. Explore our pantry staples—a blend of specialty items that add flair to dishes and everyday essentials for effortless, inspired cooking. These are some of the pantry staples in Lauren’s kitchen at all times.
Do your darndest to find a local neighborhood market or grocer. If you’re in Nashville, we recommend Spread Market.
None of these links are affiliate links, they’re truly my favorites.
Olive Oil
Quality olive oil serves as a cornerstone in the kitchen, elevating dishes with its rich flavor and versatile uses. Beyond its taste, it adds depth and complexity to meals, be it a simple salad or a hearty stew. Choosing high-quality olive oil isn't just about taste; it's about authenticity. We’re huge fans of the FLAMINGO ESTATE EVOO.
Finishing Salt
We cherish the importance of this simple yet impactful ingredient. Whether it's sprinkled over a freshly baked loaf, a batch of cookies, or a sizzling steak, this salt enhances the flavors, bringing a new dimension to your meals. Investing in quality finishing flaky sea salt is a game-changer in the kitchen. We love MALDONS SEA SALT.
Moroccan Harissa or Calabrian Chilis
Enhance your meals with a spicy kick! Calabrian chilis or Moroccan harissa bring vibrant, bold flavors that elevate any dish. Whether you prefer the smoky tones of harissa or the lively heat of Calabrian chilis, these ingredients are a surefire way to spice up your meals and create unforgettable flavors. This is by far my favorite HARISSA. I purchase my Calabrian Chilis from Trader Joes. Use the Calabrian Chili oli to drizzle over the top of pizzas, pastas, roasted vegetables, or even a simple avocado toast.
Anchovies, Olives, Salami, etc.
Having a stock of anchovies, olives, salami, and canned tuna in your pantry can instantly elevate your culinary creations. Anchovies bring a savory depth to sauces and dressings. Salami provides a versatile option for charcuterie boards or quick flavor boosts, while canned tuna serves as a convenient protein source for salads, sandwiches, or pasta dishes. These pantry heroes are indispensable for adding richness and depth to your meals at a moment's notice. We’re huge fans of FISH WIFE for tinned fish.
Briny Additions
Always keep a backup jar of your favorite briny snacks like capers, pickles, or olives. I've learned the hard way that I go through capers and cornichons quicker than expected, so having an extra jar on hand has been a game-changer. These FILTHY CORNICHON STUFFED OLIVES are my personal favorite snack.
Za’atar
This Middle Eastern blend of herbs, sesame seeds, and sumac adds a burst of earthy, citrusy, and nutty flavors to your meals. Whether you're sprinkling it on roasted vegetables, using it as a seasoning for meats, or mixing it into yogurt for a zesty dip, za'atar is a versatile pantry staple that effortlessly elevates your culinary creations. We love EVERMILL SPICES.
Vinegars
A diverse selection of vinegars in your pantry opens up a world of flavor possibilities. From balsamic's rich and sweet profile to the tangy punch of apple cider vinegar, each variety adds its own unique taste to dishes. Red wine vinegar offers robustness, while white wine vinegar provides a lighter touch. Rice vinegar introduces a delicate acidity, perfect for Asian-inspired recipes. ACID LEAGUE has an awesome selection of vinegar variations.
Hot Sauce
Having a trusty bottle of hot sauce in your pantry is like having a secret flavor enhancer at your fingertips. Whether it's the fiery kick of habanero or the tangy zest of Tabasco, hot sauce can transform any dish into a flavor adventure. A dash or drizzle can breathe life into soups, stews, tacos, or even morning eggs. It's the versatile touch that elevates the mundane and adds a layer of excitement to your palate. We’re loving ZAB’S lately.
OTHER PANTRY STAPLES TO STOCK UP ON:
Dried Herbs and Spices: Including a variety of dried herbs and spices like basil, oregano, thyme, cinnamon, cumin, and paprika can significantly enhance the flavor profile of your dishes.
Grains and Legumes: Items like rice, quinoa, lentils, and beans serve as versatile ingredients and can be the base for a variety of dishes, from salads to soups.
Canned Tomatoes: Having canned tomatoes on hand offers convenience when preparing sauces, stews, or soups, providing a quick and tasty base for many recipes.
Nuts and Seeds: Stocking almonds, walnuts, pine nuts, chia seeds, or sesame seeds can add texture, protein, and flavor to meals or serve as toppings for salads or yogurt.
Dried Pasta and Rice: Keeping a variety of pasta shapes and rice types ensures you're always prepared for a quick, comforting meal.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Having a natural sweetener available is perfect for baking, marinades, dressings, or sweetening beverages.
Coconut Milk or Cream: This versatile ingredient is handy for both sweet and savory recipes, from curries to desserts.
[ OTHER PANTRY OBSESSIONS ]
The Dovetails were crafted as a natural extension of these essential pantry items.
With just a bit of effort, these essential ingredients can transform any dish into a culinary masterpiece. These staples are designed to be simple yet impactful, and always within reach to help you add that extra touch of magic to your creations. With Dovetails as your secret weapon, you'll have a "feather in your cap.”
