Ever find yourself rummaging through your pantry, unsure of what items are still good to use? You’re not alone. Many of us are guilty of buying food items, forgetting about them, and then wondering if they’re still edible months, or even years, later.
The good news is, some pantry staples have impressive shelf lives and can last for years without going bad. Here are 13 of these long-lasting items you should always keep in your kitchen.
1. Rice
From sushi to stir-fry, rice is a versatile staple in many cuisines. Not only is it delicious and easy to prepare, but it also has a remarkably long shelf life. White, wild, arborio, jasmine, and basmati rice can last up to 4-5 years in the pantry. Just make sure it’s stored in a cool, dry place away from any moisture or pests.
For those who prefer brown rice, keep in mind that its shelf life is a bit shorter due to its higher oil content. However, it can still last 6-12 months if stored properly. So go ahead and stock up on your favorite type of rice without any fear of waste.
2. White Vinegar
White vinegar is a must-have pantry item for more reasons than one. It’s a versatile ingredient that can be used in everything from salad dressings to homemade cleaning solutions. Best of all, it’s one of those rare items that never expires. Even after years, it’ll still be good to use.
Just make sure to keep it sealed tightly and stored in a cool, dark place. Whether you’re using it for cooking, cleaning, or even getting rid of pesky odors, white vinegar is a pantry staple that you’ll never have to throw out.
3. Honey
Did you know that archaeologists have found pots of honey in ancient Egyptian tombs that are over 3,000 years old? Honey is a natural sweetener that never spoils. Its long shelf life is due to its low moisture content and acidic pH level which create inhospitable conditions for bacteria and microorganisms.
Over time, honey may crystallize, but that doesn’t mean it’s gone bad. Simply placing the jar in a bowl of warm water will return it to its liquid state. So next time you’re shopping for sweeteners, consider opting for honey, a tasty and long-lasting alternative to sugar.
4. Soy Sauce
Soy sauce is a staple in Asian cuisine and a favorite condiment worldwide. It adds a unique umami flavor to dishes. Thanks to its high salt content, soy sauce can last up to three years unopened in your pantry.
Even after opening, it can still maintain its quality for up to two years if stored in the refrigerator. So, don’t worry about using up that large bottle of soy sauce right away. It will be there, ready to enhance your meals, for quite some time.
5. Dried Beans
Dried beans are a budget-friendly, high-protein food that can last for years in your pantry. They’re also incredibly versatile, suitable for a wide range of dishes from soups to salads, and even desserts. As long as they’re kept in a cool, dry, dark place, they can last indefinitely.
However, it’s worth noting that over time, beans will lose moisture, which means they’ll take longer to cook. But with a bit of planning and soaking time, these little legumes will be ready to add some nutritious, protein-packed goodness to your meals.
6. Salt
Salt is a vital ingredient in almost every recipe. It enhances flavors and preserves food, and it also never spoils. Whether it’s table salt, kosher salt, or fancy sea salt, you can count on it to stay good indefinitely, making it a wise investment for your pantry.
Its longevity is thanks to its mineral nature. Salt can’t support the growth of bacteria or other microorganisms. So, as long as it’s stored in a dry environment, it will last forever, always ready to season your dishes to perfection.
7. Sugar
Like its fellow sweetener honey, sugar can last indefinitely. Its long shelf life is due to its low moisture content. Whether you prefer white, brown, or powdered sugar, as long as it’s stored in a dry place, it will remain usable.
Once again, crystallization might occur, especially in brown sugar, but that doesn’t mean it’s spoiled. Just heat it up to return it to its original state. So, whether you’re baking cookies or sweetening your coffee, sugar is a pantry staple that’s there for the long haul.
8. Corn Starch
When it comes to thickening sauces, gravies, or soups, corn starch is a go-to ingredient. It’s also used in many baking recipes. If stored in a cool, dry place, corn starch can last indefinitely.
Just make sure it’s kept in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing moisture from the environment. With corn starch in your pantry, you’re always ready to whip up a thick and creamy dish.
9. Dried Pasta
Who doesn’t love a good pasta dish? Dried pasta is a pantry must-have that can last for years. It’s a quick, easy, and delicious meal solution for busy weeknights. Dried pasta can last up to two years unopened, and about a year once opened.
Just keep it in a cool, dry place. If it’s whole wheat pasta, you might want to store it in the fridge, as it has a higher oil content. But otherwise, feel free to stock up on your favorite pasta shapes and varieties. They’re sure to come in handy when you need a quick and satisfying meal.
10. Instant Coffee
If you’re like me, your day doesn’t start until you’ve had your coffee. Instant coffee is a convenient and long-lasting solution for those early mornings. Unopened, it can last up to 20 years in the pantry. Even after opening, it can still last up to 18 months.
Just make sure to store it in a dark, cool place and in an airtight container after opening. With instant coffee in your pantry, you’re always just a hot cup of water away from a comforting, caffeinated beverage.
11. Canned Goods
Canned goods are a lifesaver when you don’t have fresh ingredients on hand or when you need a quick meal. From fruits and vegetables to meats and soups, canned goods offer a variety of food solutions. If stored in a cool, dry place, unopened canned goods can last up to 5 years.
However, once opened, make sure to refrigerate any unused portions and consume them within a few days. Thanks to canned goods, you’ll always have a backup meal plan in your pantry.
12. Pure Maple Syrup
Nothing beats the taste of pure maple syrup on a stack of pancakes. Not only is it a delicious treat, but it’s also a long-lasting one. Unopened, it can last indefinitely in your pantry. Once opened, it can last a year in the fridge.
Its long shelf life is due to its high sugar content, which creates an inhospitable environment for bacteria. So, splurge on that fancy bottle of pure maple syrup. It’s going to be good for many breakfasts to come.
13. Hard Liquor
For those who enjoy a cocktail now and then, hard liquor is a pantry staple that only gets better with age. Spirits like whiskey, vodka, rum, and gin can last indefinitely, whether they’re opened or not. The key is to keep them in a cool, dark place and to ensure the cap is tightly sealed after each use.
So, whether you’re sipping on a glass of whiskey after dinner or mixing a cocktail for a party, you can count on your hard liquor to stay good and tasty. It’s the spirit that keeps on giving.
