Malta Development Blog

After moving to a new home, that first trip to the grocery store can be a real eye opener. You may have had to discard most of the liquid items in your pantry since moving companies do not allow these in your packing boxes. You may have dumped many of your old spices and miscellaneous jars of out-of-date foodstuffs hidden in the back of your pantry and fridge before the move. So, now you need to recreate a pantry stocked with the essentials you must have to put together nutritious family meals in your new home.

Here’s a handy rundown on the basic staples you should concentrate on in your first shopping trip. The following should supply a base from which to expand into your own unique favorites. Want to build your new pantry slowly? We've divided each category into first trip to the grocery and second trip.

Liquid Goods

First Trip: Extra virgin olive oil, white and wine vinegars, worcestershire sauce, salad dressings.

Second Trip: Balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, hot sauce, vegetable oil.

Spices

First Trip: Salt and black peppercorns, oregano leaves, garlic powder, dry mustard, bay leaves, bouillon powders, vanilla extract.

Second Trip: Cayenne pepper, sage, thyme, smoked paprika, celery salt, rosemary, ground cloves, nutmeg, kosher salt.

Dry Goods

First Trip: Flour, cornstarch, baking soda, white and brown sugars, sugar substitute, panko and/or breadcrumbs, oatmeal, dry pasta, rice, packets of dessert mixes, tea and coffee.

Second Trip: Baking powder, powdered sugar, cornmeal, cocoa powder.

Canned and Bottled Goods

First Trip: Canned tomatoes, canned broths, mustard, ketchup, canned beans and vegetables, canned tuna, prepared cooking sauces, mayonnaise, honey, jams.

Second Trip: Tomato paste, BBQ sauce, canned fruits, canned pickles and olives, peanut butter, syrup.

Cold Foods

First Trip: Butter (salted and unsalted) and margarine, eggs, milk.

Second Trip: Cheese, yogurt, fruit juices.

Fresh Foods

First Trip: Onions, garlic, lettuce, carrots, fruit, tomatoes, fresh meats, bread.

Second Trip:  Celery, potatoes, mushrooms.

Freezer

First Trip: Ground meats, bacon, chicken, vegetables, ice cream.

Second Trip: Sausage, steaks and chops, berries, nuts.

Is there anything we've left off the list? Anything you found that you just couldn't live without once you moved in? Share your thoughts with our readers below.