YOUR JULY PANTRY GO-TOS

Hearty winter meals are at your fingertips when you keep your pantry stocked with packets of risotto and polenta, and many cans of your favourite beans – all available at Woolies.

BLACK BEANS IN BRINE

These versatile legumes are especially good in Latin American dishes. Try them in a one-pot black bean chilli, with tortillas and sour cream. Also add to soups and whloesome salads. R20.99 for 400 g

BROWN LENTILS

No soaking is needed for these dried lentils. Simply place one part lentils in a saucepan with three parts water, bring to the boil and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, or until tender but with a little bite. Use for salads, soups and bulking up casseroles. R28.99 for 500 g

CHICKPEA FLOUR

Use this flour as an alternative to wheat flour in cooking and baking. It adds a delicious nutty sweetness to cakes and breads. R29.99 for 350 g

POLENTA

A coarsely ground yellow maize that’s versatile enough to serve with winter stews, grilled meat and fish. It can also be added to cakes and breads. Serve it as a creamy, comforting alternative to mash or rice, cooled and cut into wedges, or turned into chips. R25.99 for 500 g

RISOTTO RICE

Its plump grains turn gently creamy with an al dente centre when cooked. Apart from Italian-inspired risottos, use it to make rice pudding and even paella. R66.99 for 1 kg