GUIDE TO A PLANT BASED PANTRY
Posted by Jena Anderson on 2023-03-07
We are thrilled to introduce you to our ultimate guide of plant-based pantry essentials; filled with ingredients you would find in our cupboards all year round! Isn't it fabulous to only need a few fresh ingredients to whip up a dish full of flavour?
We want to help you every step of the way if you're thinking about incorporating more plant-based dishes to your meals. Here is our selection of 16 pantry items, perfect for elevating all kinds of dishes, whether it be pasta or salad. Once you try some of these, you may wonder how you ever lived without them!
1. beans
Beans are a great source of protein in a plant-based dish. Also, there are so many different varieties out there; whether it be black beans for a Mexican bean chilli or butter beans for a pie! You can get these from any of your local supermarkets. We would recommend the
2. dried penne pasta
Carbohydrates are a great source of energy so it's important that they are a part of your meals. There are so many tasty pasta dishes out there. One of our all-time favourites is a classic tomato pasta bake. For this, we recommend our Belazu Dried Penne Pasta.
3. VE-DU-YA
This is a vegan substitute for the classic 'nduja and is a fiery paste made from a blend of Calabrian chillies and sweet peppers. It's perfect to top pizza, spice up casseroles or dollop the last bit of the jar in a toastie.
4. RICE
Another fantastic carbohydrate that you are likely to reach for at least once a week is rice! We recommend using brown rice, as it has a lower glycaemic index. Even though it takes slightly longer to cook, it's so worth it! You can get this from any of your local supermarkets.
5. qUINOA
This is a type of whole grain and is a great source of plant protein and fibre in your diet. You can get this from any of your local supermarkets.
6. LENTILS
These are an excellent source of protein and many other vitamins, including B vitamins. They are also incredibly useful for adding texture to your plant-based meals. As such, they are sometimes used as a substitute for beef mince. We recommend our Organic Jarred Lentils.
7. OLIVE OIL
Olive Oil provides a heart-healthy source of fat. It is great when used as a cooking oil, or when drizzled on top of salads, pizzas, and more! We recommend our Early Harvest Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
8. TOFU
Tofu is a great meat substitute. For example, you can switch out the chicken in your Pad Thai for Tofu. It can also be cooked in a number of different ways, whether it be deep-fried, baked or scrambled. You will be able to find tofu in a number of your local supermarkets.
9. TAHINI
Adds a creamy texture to your cooking, without the need for dairy. It also has a uniqely rich, nutty, balanced flavour. Alternatively, you could use tahini in your baking for cookies, buns and cakes. We recommend our authenic Tahini.
10. SWEET POTATO
This is not just any type of potato! Here at Belazu, if we had to pick a favourite, it would be sweet potato. They are so versatile! You can get them from any supermarket or greengrocer.
11. ROSE HARISSA
Our Rose Harissa has a slow-burning chilli heat, balanced with sweet smokiness that adds real depth of flavour to any dish. It is one of our signature ingredients and bestsellers! This tastes so good, you won't be able to get enough!
12. BALSAMIC VINEGAR
Did you know that our 1.34 Balsamic Vinegar or Modena is 34% thicker than water? This is what helps to make it the sweetest and stickiest around! Our balsamic is the perfect addition to salads and marinades, but it can also be enjoyed on its own as a bread dipping oil.
13. ZHOUG
An intensely herbal paste that adds fresh, spicy notes to grilled vegetables, flatbreads and salads or add some depth to your your homemade falafels.
14. CHICKPEAS
We love how versatile these are. You can add them to curries, soups, salads, and so much more!
15. NUTS
We can't think of tastier, more convenient, healthy snack than our Rosemary Nut Mix! These won't last long in your cupboards.
16. VEGAN BASIL PESTO
Whether you use this in an orzo or a salad, we're certain this fresh pesto will level up your meal.
