Pantries and Secrets

I am letting a big skeleton out of my closet. Those who have visited my home comment on how neat and clean it is, but I have a dirty little secret............

DON’T LOOK IN THE CLOSETS OR CABINETS!!! I am notorious for just throwing stuff on shelves or in drawers. It’s a vicious cycle!!!

Yesterday I finally organized my pantry (a job that needed to be tackled for some time). While deciding whether to keep the vinegar that has been there for years with only half an inch of vinegar in it to throwing out open crackers that went stale MONTHS ago, I researched a well stocked pantry. Here were my findings:

• White or brown rice and rice blends
• Pasta
• Biscuit baking mix
• Oats
• Dry Mixes: Gravy, salad dressing
• Beans and Lentils: Canned or dry
• Bastes, Marinades, Sauces such as soy, worcestershire, teriyaki
• Tomato products: Diced, crushed, paste, sauce, salsa, dried
• Pasta Sauce
• Broth or stock: Beef, chicken, vegetable (Fat free, low sodium)
• Soup: Condensed, dry, ready-to-serve
• Canned meats: Tuna, chicken, Salmon
• Canned fruits: peaches, apple sauce, pears, pineapple, fruit salad, citrus, etc.
• Dried fruits: Cranberries, raisins, etc.
• Canned vegetables
• Dinner kits: We all have nights that a quick meal is necessary
• Pudding and gelatin mixes
• Canned or premixed cake frostings for quick dessert dress-ups
• Assorted crackers
• Olive oil (virgin or light if you don't like the strong taste)
• Peanut or canola oil for high heat frying
• Non-stick spray oils
• Regular white vinegar or wine vinegar for "every day" use
• Balsamic vinegar for salads, deglazing and vegetables
• Beverage like teas, cocoa, canned or dried fruit juice mixes, etc
• Snacks: popcorn, chips, pretzels for quick snacks or dipping
• Onions and potatoes must be stored separately to avoid sprouting potatoes and rotting onions. Never in the fridge
• Fresh garlic and ginger should be stored in an airy basket in a dark cool place. Never in the fridge
• Spices: Always buy a little at a time so you get the flavor
• Kosher salt
• Vanilla Extract
• Indian/Thai/Oriental Curry powders and/or premixed bottled pastes and sauces
• Cornstarch
• Baking soda/powder