So, now you're wondering what you should have on hand for a stocked pantry, and if you're going to have to spend mega-bucks to accomplish this. Here's the answer, and you might be surprised.
- 5 lb. all purpose flour - 1.99
- 1 can baking powder - 1.50
- 1 small box baking soda - .50
- salt and pepper - 1.00
- 5 lb. sugar - 2.50
- 4 cans whole tomatoes - 5.00
- 6 cans each corn, green beans, sweet peas - 9.00
- 3 cans each mixed veggies, carrots, potatoes - 4.50
- 3 cans fruit - 4.50
- 10 lb. bag potatoes - 2.50
- 3 lb. bag rice - 2.00
- 1 lb. packages of pasta (macaroni, spaghetti, egg noodles) - 3.00
- 1 lb. bags of a variety of dried beans and peas - 5.00
- 3 lb. bag onions - 1.50
- shaker of chili powder - .50
- 1 dozen eggs - 1.50
That will get you started. As you go along and need them, you'll add
- shaker of cinnamon - .50
- shaker of lemon pepper - .50
- shaker of paprika - .50
- shaker of onion powder - .50
- shaker of garlic powder - .50
- shaker of Italian herb blend - 1.00
- butter or margarine (I prefer butter) - 2.00
- cooking oil (I prefer canola) - 2.50
- box of powdered milk - 4.00
- canned fish (salmon, mackerel, tuna) - 6.00
- 4 cans evaporated milk - 3.00
If you want, you can add fresh meat, fresh veggies and fruit, and fresh or frozen fish to the list to round out the meals. But, these lists will give you enough to get a good start on home cooking without being too involved or expensive. Once things are in place, it's a simple matter of shopping for replacements when something runs out.
