The Famuan

Issue date: 4/14/08 Section: Taste

Sometimes, cooking can be a hassle, especially if you are new at it or simply don't have the 'right' ingredients to make you're favorite dish or simply just eat.

Being away from a parents home can also be annoying, too, without having a parent available to provide food. There are a few recommendations and tips available for usage and healthy choice selections.

With a complete kitchen or pantry you will always have something to make a meal at the spur of the moment. More advanced cookers may be surprised that many of these ingredients are generally in recipes.

Students can either buy these things on as a needed basis for recipes or make a list and randomly purchase them for future use.

Some people may feel differently about these items, however, keep in mind that this is a general list and that everyone has their own taste buds to answer to.

Here are some things that students should consider purchasing to stock up their refrigerator and pantry.


The Fridge

Milk
It's a great source of calcium and when added to cereal, makes for a quick and healthy breakfast or compliment to cakes and cookies. Try using 2% or skim milk.

Eggs

A protein-packed breakfast item, necessity for many baked goods, or ingredient for various type of salads and sandwiches.

Margarine or Butter

Not recommended for everyday use, but definitely needed for baked goods and adding flavor.

Fruits

These require little to no preparation when hungry or if guests stop by. Grapes, apples, bananas, and oranges are commonly available.

Lemon Juice/Fresh Lemons

Lemon juice is found in many recipes. You can also add a fresh slice or drop to a glass of faucet water for added refinement or use lemon juice as a low-fat salad dressing.

Mayonnaise

This is needed to spread on bread, mix into tuna salad and make dips. Use the low-fat variety.

Vegetables

Many of them can be eaten raw or added to supplement recipes and entrees. Carrots, cabbage, squash and tomatoes are just a few.

Water, Juice, soft drinks

There is always a need for cold beverages; they offer instant refreshment.

Meat

Whether it is chicken, turkey, fish, beef or pork, they often complete the meal for meat eaters.


The Pantry

Cooking Spray

Always a great substitute for using margarine, butter, lard or other fats often used for cooking.