The Staple Pantry

We live across the street from a grocery store, but on ugly days, i don't want to go pick up something i need. There are a few things that are always in our house for a quick meal in winter months, when local produce is scarce.

• Cabbage: Cabbage keeps for a long time in the fridge, absorbs a multitude of flavors well (like curry or citrus), is an excellent source of fiber and crunch, and is high in vitamin C, K, and B6 among others.
• Root Vegetables: Root vegetables have been cellared for centuries and keep well. We always have carrots, onions, and potatoes on hand and there is a lot of flavor to be had in those 3 ingredients.
• Organic Chicken Stock: We do read labels, but there are some things we DON'T care to make from scratch, and chicken stock is one of them. We always have several cartons in the cabinet ready for a yummy rice dish or a quick soup dish.
• Rice/Pasta: These are kind of obvious. They're dry goods that pair well and somtimes just hit the spot. We don't eat a lot of either, but at the last minute, it's great to be able to whip up a side of whole grain and vegetables. I also make my homemade pierogi in large batches and freeze them for later.
• Cream: The high fat content in heavy cream gives it an excellent shelf life. We use it in cappuccinos, chowders, and baking (if i don't have milk, i just water down the cream). 
• Coconut Milk: Coconut is highly digestible and great for skin and hair. It also imparts an amazing flavor to asian dishes, desserts, and smoothies. I buy cans of it by the case. Today, i knew i could whip up a 30 minute curry with that can of coconut milk
• Lemons: There are almost always lemons on our counter, ready to add to dishes, a healthy tonic in the morning, or a cocktail. The thick peels mean you don't have to worry about using them right away.
• Frozen soups/stews: This all started with large batches of chili and opposite work shifts. My husband wanted easy go-to meals so when i make soup or stews, i always make extra and freeze it in individual portions. On a lazy day, you just pop them into a pot and wait. 
• Protein: We usually buy our proteins fresh the day we cook them, but our freezer always has some frozen beef and chicken, ready to add to a quick dish.