03/15/2019
Does it look like there’s been a stampede in your pantry? Everything’s a jumble and things fall out when you open the door or you find nothing to eat. How about spring cleaning your pantry with a purpose? Do you want to eliminate junk food, incorporate more whole foods into your diet, maybe you have never really cooked and would like to start?
You may feel like one of the kiddos coming out of the chute for their first mutton busting at the big rodeo. Butterflies in your stomach, not sure if you want to do this or not. You invite a friend for moral support, give the nod, and open the door. Let’s round up this pantry. Start with two boxes and a trash bag. You may want to wait until your grocery supply is low. In the first box, put the things that you will keep. Check the dates and make sure nothing is expired. Place all of the things that you haven’t eaten or don’t want to eat in the second box to deliver to the food pantry. Whatever is left like out of date food, half eaten bags of chips, the secret stash of Little Debbies, and whatever you have decided does not support your goal of healthy living, can go in the trash. Once everything is out, vacuum and wipe down the shelves.
Now you are ready to restock. First, think about the things that you like to eat and any special dietary needs that you have. I encourage anti inflammatory foods that support your health as a great place to start. Having your pantry stocked with basic ingredients will make your food preparation much easier. Healthy fats, whole grains, nuts, beans (dried or canned), canned tomatoes, and some basic spices are a great place to start. Whole grains, nuts, and dried beans purchased from the bulk section and in small amounts saves money and keeps them fresher. Placing them in glass jars that can be purchased at the thrift store allows you to see what you have and what you need. Walnuts and almonds provide omega 3 fatty acids and taste great as a snack, in salads and other dishes. I suggest extra virgin olive oil and organic canola oil as healthy fats. Beans are loaded with fiber and are an economic source of protein. They can be purchased canned or dried and easily be incorporated into soups, hummus, or salads. You may try black, garbanzo, or cannellini beans. Canned tomatoes can be used for sauces, soups, and grain dishes. Whole grains such as oats, quinoa and rice, to name a few, provide fiber and digest slowly decreasing spikes in blood sugar which contribute to inflammation. Vegetable stock is a great addition as well. It ups the flavor of grains and is a great base for soups. Spices are a personal favorite of mine. They provide layers of flavor. These can also be purchased in small amounts in the bulk section. This is a great way to try out a new flavor and lower the inflammation. Garlic, ginger, cumin, oregano, cinnamon, turmeric, rosemary and thyme are a great place to start. By the way, you did get rid of the Little Debbies. Maybe you want to replace that with some 70% dark chocolate. It contains polyphenols that are antioxidant.
You have done it. Your pantry is clean, well stocked and ready to go. Tip your hat back, relax and breath easy as you plan a simple, healthy meal.
Does it look like there’s been a stampede in your pantry? Everything’s a jumble and things fall out when you open the door or you find nothing to eat. How about spring cleaning your pantry with a purpose?
