We've previously discussed the significance of maintaining a well-stocked long-term and functional pantry. However, there's another crucial aspect to both pantries that we shouldn't overlook: the importance of a diverse selection of spices and seasonings. Consider this: in times of emergency, when our meals may be limited to basic staples like "beans and rice", the addition of spices could be the difference between merely sustaining ourselves and finding comfort and satisfaction in our meals. Another aspect is that just like the pantries being stocked with single ingredients instead of mixes and readymade food, we need to have single spices and seasonings; The rationale behind this is simple: while pre-made mixes may eventually run out, leaving you at a loss, having individual ingredients and recipes ensures that you'll always be capable of crafting your own blends.
I have been working on building a recipe collection of meals in jars and Master mixes these are recipes that use dry ingredients and are premixed and at your fingertips to save you time in everyday life or are instant meals in times of necessity or convenience. If they are properly sealed these sits are shelf stable for up to 10 years! They are an amazing tool for taking on the go, convenience, ease and long-term storage. Basically, just add contents of the jar into a cooking pan, add water and bake or cook! Your meal is hot and ready! I have shared much on how to get started with this and if you have questions, just ask! As with anything it is about building a library and skill to be able to kick in if it is needed. With the groceries going up and the instability of the economy.... the time needed to finalize and prepare this skill is now.
Additionally, I've been working on expanding the collection with more master mix recipes, ensuring that everything needed is readily available at my fingertips. This includes an array of meals in jar recipes, salad dressing recipes, and spice blend recipes to enhance the variety and convenience of the collection.
Start building your recipe library, start experimenting and making them your own. Make sure you have all different kinds of spices and seasonings to work with and lots of them! You'll be pleasantly surprised by the amount of money you'll save, simply by being able to make your own items. Moreover, you'll discover a sense of satisfaction and empowerment in the versatility and capabilities that come with being able to create these items yourself.
I have written various blogs on building pantries, like this one https://www.goshenacres.com/post/building-a-resilient-pantry-short-term-vs-long-term-preparedness
If you have not yet signed up and want to be included in my meals in jars newsletter and Thrive Life updates where I also will share exclusive recipes, go here to my thrive life account and make a customer account. This is where I can easily retrieve all emails to make a mailing list. Any add on recipes to the book will be notified and shared there in what I hope will be a monthly newsletter.
If you would like the meals in jars and Master mix recipe collection here is a link BUT ask me if you are interested in receiving it for FREE!
Now that you are up to speed on why and how, here is one of the recipes that I have in my personal recipe book to get you started! What seasoning blend do you use more than any other? I don't know about you, but for us, it is Taco seasoning, so knowing how to create it and having the ingredients on hand is a must!
Taco Seasoning Master Mix
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon paprika
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together all the spices.
2. Pour the spice mixture into the mason jar.
3. Seal the jar tightly.
4. Attach a label with cooking instructions:
"To use: add 2 tablespoons of the mix to 1 pound of cooked ground beef, turkey, or chicken along with 1/2 cup of water. Simmer until thickened, then use as a filling for tacos, burritos, or enchiladas."
*As always, these recipes can be played with so that they accommodate your families' tastes. The best part.... No preservatives, added salts or MSG!
Investing time and money in building a collection of ingredients and recipes, not only saves money and promotes self-sufficiency, but also brings a sense of accomplishment and joy. With the economic landscape becoming increasingly uncertain, now is the opportune moment to hone these skills and embrace the convenience and security they offer. So, let's embark on this journey of culinary creativity, empowering ourselves to create delicious, budget-friendly meals while enjoying the satisfaction of self-reliance and prepare for any emergency that might be just around the corner.
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