Some people collect shoes. Foodies collect pantry items. Pantry items, particularly fancy condiments, are making a bit of a splash in the culinary world, making mealtimes all about out-of-this-world flavour. Frying an egg? Pair it with chilli crisp. Making a quick stir-fry for a midweek meal? Don’t forget the oyster sauce. The pantry is a cook’s best friend, especially after a long day. We’ve rounded up a guide to help you build a better pantry. Your stomach will thank you.
10 Pantry items you should never be without
1. Olive oil
Fruity, rich, and versatile, a quality olive oil adds depth and complexity to everything from salad dressings to pasta sauces. Take your pick from extra virgin olive oil to pomace oil.
Try it in this citrus olive oil cake.
2. Sesame oil
With its delicate nutty aroma, sesame oil is perfect for both hot dishes and cold salads. A little goes a long way, just a few drops can transform a cold noodle salad or finish off a hot stir-fry.
Try it in our Mongolian beef noodles.
3. Soy sauce
The original umami booster. Enhances flavour without piling on extra salt. Not just for Asian dishes, try it in marinades, soups, or even in chocolate desserts.
Try out these dumplings in chilli soy broth.
4. Tomato paste
Packed with savoury, tangy richness. Use it to deepen pasta sauces, stews, and curries, or to give rice-based dishes a robust flavour base. Toast it briefly in oil before adding liquids to unlock its full richness.
Use your fav tomato paste in this cauliflower, red pepper & chickpea curry.
5. Chilli crisp
Crunchy, spicy, and just the right amount of heat, chilli crisp adds instant excitement to everything from noodles and fried rice to fried eggs and avo toast. It’s also delicious stirred through mayo for a fiery sandwich spread.
Substitute the quick chilli oil with your favourite brand of chilli crisp in this avo & egg truffles recipe.
6. Fish sauce
The secret ingredient for that elusive something in a dish. Adds complexity without overpowering. Use sparingly in stir-fries, curries, and broths for that elusive “something” that makes flavours sing.
Boost this Thai green curry with a dash of fish sauce, and taste the difference.
7. Oyster sauce
Rich, glossy, and savoury-sweet, perfect for stir-fries, marinades, or finishing off veggies. Brush it over roasted veg or mix with soy sauce and sesame oil for a quick dressing.
Put your go-to brand of oyster sauce to the test by making our spiced pork ribs in oyster sauce.
8. Thickening agents (cornflours, Bisto, soup powders)
The magic makers for gravies, pan juices, and stews, but their talents don’t stop there. Cornflour, rice flour, and similar starches can help keep deep-fried batters and crumb coatings perfectly crisp, and they’re essential for light, airy gluten-free cakes and pastries. Savoury soup powders (think mushroom or brown onion) not only thicken but also add a flavour boost to quick sauces and marinades.
Try our gluten- and sugar-free pancakes.
9. Vinegar
Every dish needs acid to balance flavour. Stock a variety, sharp white vinegar for pickling, mellow apple cider for dressings, and rich sherry or champagne vinegar for deglazing pans or brightening sauces.
Whip up this roasted carrot and red onion tart with goat’s cheese and red wine vinegar glaze.
Roasted carrot and red onion tart with goat’s cheese and a red wine vinegar glaze
10. Curry powder
A proudly South African staple that’s as versatile as it is flavourful. Just a spoonful can transform everything from roast chicken to veggie bakes, or even add a fragrant twist to soups and dips.
Try out our Cape Malay chicken curry.
Stocking your pantry with the right staples means you can turn even the simplest ingredients into a memorable meal. Think of it as your personal flavour arsenal, one that’s ready for action at a moment’s notice.
