A thoughtful pantry is quietly one of the most useful things in any kitchen. When the cupboard is well stocked, even an empty fridge is no obstacle to dinner.
Reliable carbohydrates
Rice, pasta, noodles and a few tins of pulses form the base of countless quick meals. They keep for ages and stretch a small amount of fresh food a long way.
Flavour builders
Keep tinned tomatoes, stock, soy sauce, a good oil and your core spices on hand. With these, a plain bag of rice or pasta becomes a proper dish in minutes.
Long-life backups
A few tins of beans, coconut milk and tuna mean there is always a meal hiding in the cupboard on the nights you simply cannot face the shops.
Rotate and refresh
Use a simple first-in, first-out system so nothing lurks forgotten at the back. Check dates now and then, and top up staples before they run out completely.