Pantry Staple Alternatives You Already Have

It's funny. I never really understood why pantry staples were considered staples. I mean, I try to stock up when I can. I've even checked off lists I found online. But, I don't really use them! 

Well, I finally get it, now!

Staples aren't necessarily cans or jars of stuff to have on hand "in case" you need a quick fix meal, as I demised.  No, no. Staple ingredients are a base for other staples!

I suppose a staple would be different for every person.  Key ingredients vary with diet restrictions and preference.  This gal prefers stuff to create her own flour, milk, and baking additions.  

My Choice of Staple Ingredients:

These ingredients get way more bang for your buck because of their many methods of use.  Personally, I plan to buy oats and rice in bulk to use as flour bases while using them as ordinary meals. 

Here a few simple ways I plan to maximize my purchasing power:

The Methods:

1. oats, almonds, or rice + grinder = flour
2. almonds or rice + boiling water + time =  milk
3. cocoa + agave + oil + heat = chocolate sauce
4. chocolate sauce + freeze & chop = chocolate chips
5. vinegar + milk = buttermilk
6. peanuts + blender = peanut butter

Yes, creating these concoctions is way less convenient than purchasing from a grocery store.  But, the health benefits are exponential.  

Fresh flour made at home contains far more nutritional value than flour packed, shipped, and sedentary on shelves.  Also, home made means no unnecessary additives! It's pretty fantastic to be able to pronounce every word in your food :)

It will take adjusting, but the fulfillment of being able to supply my own pantry is an added benefit to learning patience up the wazoo.  

Cheers to no more frantic Big Y runs for a single bag of chocolate chips only to walk out with an entire cart of unplanned groceries!