STORECUPBOARD
I always have a well-stocked storecupboard. It is excellent for when you need to bulk up a meal or when you simply have nothing in the fridge. These are what my family likes but experiment with what you like. The selection in your local supermarket, corner shop and speciality food shop is endless! I am always on the lookout for new and interesting things but these are my essentials. I tend to have 2-3 cans of each and replenish as necessary.
For Indian/Middle Eastern:
Butter Beans
Cannellini Beans
Brown Lentils
Black-eyed beans
Kidney Beans
Chickpeas
Coconut Milk- full fat and light
Chopped tomatoes
Garlic Paste
Red Lentils
Brown/Puy lentils
Rice -see below
Ptitim/Maftoul- large couscous, sometimes known as Israeli Couscous
For Asian:
Sesame Oil
Dark Soy Sauce
Light Soy Sauce
Tamari Soy Sauce -this is Gluten Free
Black & White Sesame Seeds
Runny honey
For Soups:
Osem chicken soup powder (use as stock)
Various types of pasta
Rice- Basmati for Indian, Arborio for Italian, Sushi for Japanese, Wholwheat for healthier dishes
Pearl Barley
Pinhead Barley
Freekeh
Couscous
Red Lentils
Oils:
Sesame oil
Sunflower Oil
Vegetable oil- which is nearly always Rapeseed
Olive oil
A really good quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil for salads (not to be used in cooking)
(Oliveology is a great store for amazing infused oils. It's in Borough Market & online)
For speedy desserts:
Tinned apples
Tinned Pears
Tinned Peaches
General:
Garlic
Ginger
Vanilla extract
Vanilla pods
Vanilla Bean paste
Cocoa
Various types of flour
Bicarbonate of Soda
Baking Powder
Golden Syrup