As you embark on your plant-based cooking journey, having the right ingredients and kitchen tools at your disposal can make all the difference. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the culinary world, stocking your kitchen with essential ingredients and tools will set you up for success. Here's a list of items that every plant-based cook should have on hand:

Grains: Whole grains form the foundation of many plant-based meals, providing essential carbohydrates, fiber, and nutrients. Stock up on staples such as quinoa, brown rice, oats, whole wheat pasta, and whole grain bread.

Legumes: Rich in protein, fiber, and various minerals, legumes are a versatile and nutritious addition to any plant-based diet. Keep a variety of canned or dried legumes like chickpeas, black beans, lentils, and kidney beans on hand.

Fruits and Vegetables: Embrace the vibrant colours and flavours of fruits and vegetables. Choose a wide assortment of fresh produce, including leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables, berries, citrus fruits, tomatoes, cucumbers, and more. Frozen fruits and vegetables are also great to have as backup options for quick and convenient meals.

Herbs and Spices: Elevate your plant-based dishes with a well-stocked spice rack. Some herbs and spices you might want to have on hand are: basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, and garlic powder. Experiment with different combinations to enhance the flavours of your recipes.

Plant-Based Proteins: While legumes provide an excellent source of plant-based protein, it can be beneficial to have alternative protein sources on hand. Consider including tofu, tempeh, seitan, edamame, and plant-based protein powders in your pantry.

Nuts and Seeds: Nuts and seeds are packed with healthy fats, protein, and a variety of nutrients. Keep a selection of almonds, walnuts, cashews, chia seeds, flaxseeds, and sesame seeds for snacking, baking, or adding a crunchy texture to your meals.

Nut and Seed Butters: Peanut butter, almond butter, and other nut and seed butters are excellent sources of protein and healthy fats. They can be used in spreads, dressings, dips, or enjoyed on their own.

Plant-Based Milk: There are various plant-based milk alternatives available, such as almond milk, oat milk, soy milk, and coconut milk. These can be used in recipes, smoothies, or enjoyed on their own. Look for milks that are fortified with calcium and other nutrients. Personally, we use soy milk because it is higher in protein than other plant milks.

Basic Cooking Utensils: Make sure you have essential cooking utensils, including a chef's knife, cutting board, mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a non-stick frying pan, pots of various sizes, baking sheets, and a colander or strainer. A blender is also handy to have. I use mine every morning for smoothies.

Storage Containers: Invest in a set of airtight containers to store leftovers and prepped ingredients. Having a well-organized refrigerator and pantry will make meal planning and cooking more convenient.

By keeping these kitchen essentials stocked, you'll have the foundation for creating a wide range of delicious and nutritious plant-based meals. As you become more comfortable with plant-based cooking, you can expand your pantry with additional ingredients and tools that suit your culinary preferences. Remember, the key is to enjoy the process, get creative with flavours, and embrace the abundance of plant-based ingredients available to you.

Happy cooking!