Vegan Pantry Staples for Building an “Ingredient Household”

With grocery prices constantly climbing and health risks associated with processed foods making headlines, more and more households are becoming “ingredient households.” With the right vegan pantry staples, you can transform your kitchen into a space stocked with versatile, nourishing foods that enable you to whip up a variety of delicious meals without the need for overly processed—not to mention overly priced—foods.

What Is an “Ingredient Household?”

An ingredient household is just that! It’s a home where ingredients take the place of ready-to-eat snacks and pre-packaged meals. So, instead of a buying instant oatmeal packets, you’d have a jar of rolled oats and a selection of toppings like fresh fruit, nuts, and spices to customize your oatmeal bowls.

There are many benefits to becoming an ingredient household.

• Whole foods are free from additives, preservatives, and excess sodium or sugar.
• Individual ingredients are usually cheaper than pre-packaged foods.
• Less plastic waste.
• Meals made from scratch can be tailored to individual preferences and dietary needs.

Where to Shop for Vegan Pantry Staples

The short answer is—anywhere! Most supermarkets have a vegan section with pre-packaged meals, but you can pick up individual ingredients at any grocery store. Look for fresh fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds in the produce and bulk sections. Health food stores offer a wide range of specialty vegan products and organic ingredients. Seasonal farmers’ markets provide locally grown produce and are a great way to support small businesses. Discount stores carry the basics for less, and online retailers offer convenience and access to unique vegan products.

The Ultimate Vegan Pantry Staples List

We’ve compiled this list of must-have ingredients for your vegan pantry. Of course, you can omit ingredients you know you won’t use and add others you love. Tailor the list to your cooking style and preferences—whether you enjoy hearty comfort foods, fresh, vibrant flavors, or quick, simple meals.

Grains and Legumes are the foundation of many vegan dishes, providing protein, fiber, carbohydrates, and vitamins and minerals.

• Rice: Brown, white, jasmine, or basmati—each brings unique textures and flavors.
• Quinoa: A complete protein that’s perfect for salads, bowls, and sides.
• Oats: Great for breakfast or savory dishes like oat-based veggie burgers.
• Pasta: Whole grain varieties add nutrients and fiber.

• Lentils: Pack a nutritional punch and take on the flavor of whatever they’re cooked with. Try them with DIY taco seasoning!
• Chickpeas: Roast them with a little paprika for a tasty snack, make your own hummus, or create a protein-packed curry.
• Beans: A great source of fiber, protein, and other nutrients and perfect in chilis and soups.

Nuts and Seeds add texture, healthy fats, and essential nutrients to meals.

• Almonds, Cashews, and Walnuts: Grab a handful straight from the bag, add to baked goods, or blend into creamy sauces. Ever tried cashew cheese? It’s a must!
• Chia Seeds and Flaxseeds: Ideal for making vegan “eggs” with the added bonus of omega-3s.
• Pumpkin and Sunflower Seeds: Perfect as a topping for salads, soups, and oatmeal.
• Tahini: A sesame seed paste that’s key for making delicious dressings.

Plant-Based Protein is a crucial component of balanced vegan meals, and a few staples can make all the difference.

• Tofu: A protein-rich ingredient that takes on flavors and textures beautifully.
• Tempeh: Made from fermented soybeans, tempeh is perfect for stir-fries and sandwiches.
• Seitan: A wheat-based protein with a meaty texture ideal for vegan roasts or sautéed dishes.
• Nutritional Yeast: This savory powder is perfect for sprinkling on popcorn and gives vegan sauces a “cheesy” flavor.

Baking Essentials come in handy for both sweet and savory recipes.

• Flour: All-purpose, whole wheat, and bread flour cover most cooking/baking needs.
• Baking Powder and Baking Soda: Essential vegan  staples for any pantry.
• Sweeteners: Maple syrup, agave nectar, vegan honey, and coconut sugar keep things sweet.
• Cocoa Powder: Perfect for hot chocolate, desserts, or a rich mole sauce.

Herbs, Spices, and Seasonings help build flavor in vegan dishes.

• Salt and pepper: No pantry is complete without ‘em.
• Herbs and Spices: Stock up on basics like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, and parsley. 
• Soy Sauce or Tamari: Adds umami to stir-fries, marinades, and soups.
• Vinegar: Apple cider, balsamic, and rice vinegar offer distinct flavor profiles for dressings and sauces.

Oils and Fats can elevate your dishes while providing healthy fats.

• Olive Oil: This heart-healthy oil is best for sautéing and salad dressings.
• Flaxseed Oil: Full of omegas and perfect for drizzling over greens.
• Avocado Oil: Excellent for high-heat cooking. 

Canned and Jarred Goods combine convenience and quality, making them must-haves.

• Canned Tomatoes: Crushed, diced, or whole for soups, sauces, and stews.
• Vegetable Broth: A base for soups and a liquid for cooking grains.

Tips for Maintaining Your Vegan Pantry

Buy in Bulk: Purchase staples like rice, beans, and nuts in bulk to save money and minimize waste. Those that allow you to bring your own bags and reusable containers reduce packaging waste even further.

Organize and Label: Store your staples in clear, airtight containers with labels that include date of purchase to make everything easy to identify and keep fresh.

Meal Plan Around Your Pantry: Before shopping, note what you already have and plan around those ingredients. For example, if you have diced tomatoes on hand, you can plan to make spaghetti with marinara sauce.

Rotate Stock: Use older items first to avoid food waste.

Keep It Simple: Versatile staples that can work in a variety of recipes stretch further than specialty items you’ll only use once.

Vegan Kitchen Essentials are Better for You and Animals

Being an ingredient household goes beyond great meals. Because you’ll be avoiding pre-packaged meals—and the plastic they’re packaged in—you’ll be helping the animals in more ways than one. It is estimated that thirty-three billion pounds of plastic enter the ocean annually, killing one hundred million sea animals every year. Plus, cooking from scratch encourages mindful eating and fosters a deeper appreciation for the food you prepare.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just starting your journey, building an ingredient-focused vegan pantry will help you create healthy, affordable, and sustainable meals. With these vegan kitchen essentials on hand, only one question remains: What will you make first?

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