The Mercury

Pantry essentials for your kitchen in autumn

- LUTHO PASIYA lutho.pasiya@inl.co.za

AUTUMN is here, which means it’s time for cosy baking and sharing hearty meals with loved ones.

To make the most of this snugly season, you will want to stock up on some of the best pantry foods.

These are the pantry staples that will make baking and cooking a breeze and ensure you are ready for those impromptu gatherings around the table with family and friends.

Here is the ultimate list of pantry essentials for autumn.

Chai

What better way to celebrate sweater season than with a steaming mug of fragrant, creamy chai?

The comforting blend of aromatics, which may include cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and even peppercorn­s, deserves a prime position in your pantry.

Cinnamon

Pears, plums, apples, and blackberri­es are all ripe for the picking in autumn, and are the basis of many comforting puds – and they’re even better when paired with cinnamon.

This essential store cupboard spice is a healthy way to sweeten and flavour your favourite bakes.

Beans and lentils

Chances are, soup, stew, and chilli are on your autumn menu, which means you are going to need beans and lentils. Stock up on black beans, brown lentils, green lentils, pinto beans and red kidney beans.

Pasta

Few foods say comfort like spaghetti and meatballs, and sometimes a bowl of macaroni and cheese hits the spot after a long day. Keeping a variety of short- and long-cut noodles on hand will not only help you satisfy those tummy rumblings but also makes for quick and easy meals.

Ginger

Ginger is a wonderfull­y versatile ingredient with some health benefits, too. Whether you choose to keep fresh, ground or stem ginger in the cupboard, it will add a gentle, warming spice to your dishes.

Cocoa

A mug of hot cocoa is a great way to combat chilly autumn evenings. From sugar-free and non-dairy cocoa to spiced drinking chocolate, there are so many flavours and varieties to choose from.

Baking essentials

As far as baking goes, flour reigns supreme. As the quintessen­tial baking staple, flour is vital for crafting cakes, cookies, and a plethora of other delicacies. Baking soda and baking powder also play a pivotal role in ensuring that baked treats achieve the perfect rise.

Dried fruits can be integrated into for muffins or sprinkled over oatmeal for a burst of natural sweetness.

 ?? | Pexels/ Mariam Antadze ?? GINGER is a wonderfull­y versatile ingredient with some health benefits, too.
| Pexels/ Mariam Antadze GINGER is a wonderfull­y versatile ingredient with some health benefits, too.
 ?? | JULISSA HELMUTH Pexels ?? ENJOY a steaming mug of fragrant, creamy chai.
| JULISSA HELMUTH Pexels ENJOY a steaming mug of fragrant, creamy chai.

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