Every home cook knows how important it is to have a well-stocked pantry. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned professional, having the right ingredients on hand can make all the difference in your cooking and baking.

In this article, we’ll take a look at 40 must-have pantry staples for home cooking, covering everything from basics like flour and sugar to essential oils and spices.

1. All-Purpose Flour

Flour is the foundation of most baked goods, so it’s a must-have pantry staple. All-purpose flour is versatile and can be used in a variety of recipes, from cakes and cookies to bread and pizza dough.

2. Granulated Sugar

Sugar is another essential ingredient in baking, but it’s also great for adding sweetness to sauces, marinades, and dressings. Granulated sugar is the most common type of sugar and can be used in almost any recipe.

3. Brown Sugar

Brown sugar is a type of sugar that contains molasses, which gives it a richer, more complex flavor than regular sugar. It’s great for baking cookies, cakes, and bread, and can also be used in savory dishes like baked beans.

4. Baking Powder

Baking powder is a leavening agent that helps baked goods rise. It’s a must-have for cakes, biscuits, and muffins, but can also be used in pancakes and waffles.

5. Baking Soda

Like baking powder, baking soda is a leavening agent. It’s used in recipes that contain acidic ingredients like buttermilk or lemon juice. Baking soda helps food rise and gives it a light, airy texture.

6. Salt

Salt is one of the most basic pantry staples, but it’s also one of the most important. It enhances flavor in almost all types of food, from savory dishes to baked goods.

7. Olive Oil

Olive oil is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, and for good reason. It’s rich in healthy fats and is a great source of antioxidants. Use it for cooking, salad dressings, and marinades.

8. Vegetable Oil

Vegetable oil is a neutral-tasting oil that’s great for frying, baking, and sautéing. It has a high smoke point, which means it can be heated to a high temperature without burning.

9. Vinegar

Vinegar is a great ingredient for adding acidity to dishes. It’s often used in salad dressings, marinades, and sauces, but can also be used to pickle vegetables.

10. Canned Tomatoes

Canned tomatoes are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from pasta sauces to chili. They’re a great source of vitamins and minerals and can be stored in the pantry for long periods of time.

11. Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is a great dairy-free alternative to cream and can be used in a variety of recipes, from curries to smoothies. It’s rich and creamy and adds a subtle coconut flavor to dishes.

12. Canned Beans

Canned beans are an inexpensive and convenient ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. They’re a great source of protein and fiber and can be used in soups, stews, salads, and more.

13. Rice

Rice is a staple in many cultures and can be used in a variety of dishes, from stir-fries to sushi. Brown rice is a great source of fiber and nutrients, while white rice is a versatile ingredient that can be used in almost any recipe.

14. Pasta

Pasta is a quick and easy ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. It’s a great source of complex carbohydrates and can be paired with almost any sauce or topping for a complete meal.

15. Oats

Oats are a great source of fiber and can be used for more than just breakfast. They can be used in baking, added to smoothies, or used as a topping for yogurt or fruit.

16. Nuts

Nuts are a great source of healthy fats and protein and can be used in a variety of ways. They can be added to oatmeal or granola, used as a topping for salads, or used in baking.

17. Seeds

Seeds like chia, flax, and hemp are great sources of fiber and Omega-3 fatty acids. They can be added to smoothies, baked goods, or used as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal.

18. Herbs

Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, and cilantro can add flavor and nutrition to any dish. They can be used in cooking or added as a garnish to salads or soups.

19. Spices

Spices are a great way to add flavor to dishes without adding calories. They can be used in cooking or as a seasoning for meats, vegetables, and sauces.

20. Soy Sauce

Soy sauce is a staple in Asian cooking and can be used as a seasoning or marinade. It adds a savory, umami flavor to dishes and can be used in stir-fries, marinades, and dipping sauces.

21. Fish Sauce

Fish sauce is another staple in Asian cooking and is made from fermented fish. It adds a savory, salty flavor to dishes and can be used in marinades, soups, and dipping sauces.

22. Worcestershire Sauce

Worcestershire sauce is a tangy, savory sauce that’s great for adding flavor to meats and marinades. It’s made from anchovies, garlic, vinegar, and other seasonings.

23. Mustard

Mustard is a great ingredient for adding tang and flavor to dressings, marinades, and sauces. It comes in a variety of flavors, from yellow to spicy brown.

24. Honey

Honey is a natural sweetener that can be used in baking, cooking, and as a topping for yogurt and oatmeal. It’s also a great ingredient for marinades and dressings.

25. Vanilla Extract

Vanilla extract is a must-have ingredient for baking. It adds a sweet, rich flavor to cakes, cookies, and other baked goods.

26. Peanut Butter

Peanut butter is a great source of protein and can be used in a variety of ways. It can be used as a spread on toast, as an ingredient in baking, or as a dip for vegetables or fruit.

27. Canned Tuna

Canned tuna is an inexpensive and convenient ingredient that’s great for making sandwiches, salads, and pasta dishes. It’s also a great source of protein and Omega-3 fatty acids.

28. Chicken Broth

Chicken broth is a great ingredient for adding flavor to soups, stews, and sauces. It’s also a great source of nutrients and can be used in place of water in recipes to add extra flavor.

29. Canned Coconut Cream

Canned coconut cream is thicker and richer than coconut milk and is great for making curries, soups, and desserts. It adds a subtle coconut flavor and is a great dairy-free alternative to cream.

30. Tomato Paste

Tomato paste is a concentrated form of tomatoes and adds a rich, robust flavor to dishes. It’s great for making sauces, stews, and soups, and can be stored in the pantry for long periods of time.

31. Canned Pumpkin

Canned pumpkin is a great ingredient for making baked goods like muffins, bread, and pie. It’s also a great source of fiber and nutrients.

32. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a healthy fat that’s great for cooking and baking. It has a high smoke point and adds a subtle coconut flavor to dishes.

33. Tahini

Tahini is a paste made from ground sesame seeds and is used in Middle Eastern cooking. It’s great for making hummus, salad dressings, and sauces.

34. Miso Paste

Miso paste is a fermented soybean paste that’s used in Japanese cooking. It adds a savory, umami flavor to dishes and can be used in soups, marinades, and sauces.

35. Cumin

Cumin is a spice that’s commonly used in Middle Eastern, Indian, and Mexican cooking. It adds a warm, earthy flavor to dishes and is great for seasoning meats, vegetables, and rice dishes.

36. Coriander

Coriander is another spice commonly used in Middle Eastern, Indian, and Mexican cooking. It has a citrusy, slightly sweet flavor and is great for seasoning meats, vegetables, and rice dishes.

37. Chili Powder

Chili powder is a blend of spices that’s commonly used in Mexican and Southwestern cooking. It adds a spicy, smoky flavor to dishes and can be used in chili, tacos, and marinades.

38. Paprika

Paprika is a spice made from dried and ground peppers. It adds a sweet, smoky flavor to dishes and is great for seasoning meats, vegetables, and rice dishes.

39. Turmeric

Turmeric is a spice commonly used in Indian and Middle Eastern cooking. It has a bright yellow color and a slightly bitter, earthy flavor. It’s great for seasoning meats, vegetables, and rice dishes.