11 Budget-Friendly Pantry Staples

Posted by Adena Leigh on February 13, 2015

Stock your pantry with these humble ingredients that pack the flavour without the hefty price tag, so you can have budget-friendly meals you’ll look forward to eating.

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Peanut Butter

The ideal complement to both savoury and sweet dishes, peanut butter is a must-have in your pantry. Whether you throw it into stir fries, mix it in dough or spread it on toast, one thing’s for sure; peanut butter’s possibilities are endless. Try this recipe for <a target="_self" href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/peanut-butter-chocolate-rice-crisp-squares/13946/">Peanut Butter Chocolate Rice Crisp Squares</a>.
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Dried Legumes

Dried or canned beans and legumes, like kidney beans and chickpeas, are the ultimate thrifty protein. Just one bag can last many-a-meals for a meager price, and when paired with the proper spices, they’ll taste much more exciting than they sound—we promise! Try this recipe for <a target="_self" href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/mediterranean-chickpea-stew/10941/">Mediterranean Chickpea Stew</a>.
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Pasta

You can splurge on fresh, high quality pasta, but sometimes nothing beats a big ol’ bag of the dried stuff. Even if you pair it with an exorbitant amount of pricey Italian cheese and veal meatballs, your cost per meal will be exceedingly low. What’s not to love? Try this recipe for <a target="_self" href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/pasta-salad-with-ricotta-and-ham/12338/">Pasta Salad with Ricotta and Ham</a>.
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Non-Dairy Milk

Unlike cow's milk, non-dairy varieties like coconut, almond and soy, have a much less impending due date. Purchase them when they’re on sale and keep them in your pantry for future use. Talk about convenience! Try this recipe for <a target="_self" href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/thai-red-pork-curry/13317/">Thai Red Pork Curry</a>.
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Dried Spices

With the right spices on hand, you can pretty much make anything taste great. Instead of purchasing pricey fresh herbs, save some silver with a well-stocked dried spice rack – a must in any home cook’s kitchen! Try this recipe for <a target="_self" href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/cumin-roasted-beets-kale-and-feta-salad/14066/">Cumin-Roasted Beets, Kale and Feta Salad</a>.
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Canned Tomatoes

Whether diced, crushed or whole, canned tomatoes lend themselves well to a variety of dishes, such as soups, pastas and sauces. At around $1 a pop, this versatile staple is the perfect way to add flavour to food on a budget. Try this recipe for <a target="_self" href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/spaghetti-with-tomato-sauce-carrots-and-dip/7343/">Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce</a>.
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Oats

You won’t have to count dollars (or calories) if you stock up on healthy oats in bulk. Keep them on hand for big bowls of porridge and wholesome baked goods to satisfy your sweet tooth. Try this recipe for <a target="_self" href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/overnight-oatmeal-jars-with-last-minute-stir-ins/14709/">Overnight Oatmeal Jars</a>.
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Canola or Vegetable Oil

This inexpensive oil is the ideal frying pan partner to have in your cupboard. The best part? Compared to pricier options like olive oil and grapeseed oil, it will barely make a dent in your wallet. Try this recipe for <a target="_self" href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/celery-root-fritters/3578/">Celery Root Fritters</a>.
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Soy Sauce

Whether you whip up a stir-fry or marinate ribs, soy sauce is a fabulous flavour-enhancer that can be bought on-the-cheap. Try this recipe for <a target="_self" href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/honey-soy-short-ribs-with-spicy-peanut-glaze/13341/">Honey Soy Short Ribs with Spicy Peanut Glaze</a>.
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Rice

This frugal pantry staple has been relied on for centuries as an economical edible. The ideal carb to pair with any meal, cook it with chicken stock for a boost in flavour. Try this recipe for <a target="_self" href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/spanish-meatballs-with-rice/14175/">Spanish Meatballs with Rice</a>.
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Frozen Fruits and Veggies

Fruits and veggies with a freezer fate are frozen shortly after they’re picked, so most of the nutrients are preserved. Keep this well-priced essential on hand for convenient and low-cost meals. Try this recipe for <a target="_self" href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chucks-berry-crumble/10006/">Chuck’s Berry Crumble</a>. Adena Leigh is a freelance lifestyle writer in Toronto. To learn more about her, visit <a href="http://www.adenaleigh.com/" target="_blank">www.adenaleigh.com</a>, and follow her on Instagram and Twitter @AdenaLeigh.
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