Dry food storage is a great way to prepare for emergencies, save money, and reduce food waste. Dry foods are foods that have low moisture and oil content, which makes them less prone to spoilage and insect infestation. They can last for months or even years if stored properly in airtight containers in a cool, dark, and dry place.
There are many types of dry foods that you can store, but some are more nutritious, versatile, and easy to use than others. Here is a top 10 list of the best dry storage foods to prepare first, based on their shelf life, nutritional value, and ease of preparation:
Wheat berries: Wheat berries are whole wheat kernels that can be ground into flour or cooked as a cereal. They are rich in protein, fiber, iron, and B vitamins. They can last for up to 30 years if stored in sealed metal or plastic containers. You can use wheat berries to make bread, pancakes, muffins, cookies, and other baked goods.
Rice: Rice is a staple food for many cultures and cuisines. It is a good source of carbohydrates, energy, and some minerals. It can last for up to 25 years if stored in sealed metal or plastic containers. You can use rice to make dishes like fried rice, pilaf, risotto, sushi, and rice pudding.
Beans: Beans are legumes that come in many varieties, such as black beans, kidney beans, pinto beans, chickpeas, lentils, and split peas. They are high in protein, fiber, iron, folate, and antioxidants. They can last for up to 10 years if stored in sealed metal or plastic containers. You can use beans to make soups, stews, salads, dips, burgers, and hummus.
Oats: Oats are grains that can be rolled, steel-cut, or instant. They are rich in fiber, protein, magnesium, and beta-glucan (a type of soluble fiber that lowers cholesterol). They can last for up to 5 years if stored in sealed metal or plastic containers. You can use oats to make oatmeal, granola bars, cookies, muffins, and bread.
Pasta: Pasta is a type of noodle made from wheat flour and water (or sometimes eggs). It is a good source of carbohydrates and energy. It can last for up to 5 years if stored in sealed metal or plastic containers. You can use pasta to make dishes like spaghetti, macaroni and cheese, lasagna, and pasta salad.
Powdered milk: Powdered milk is milk that has been dehydrated and turned into a powder. It is a good source of calcium, protein, vitamin D, and vitamin A. It can last for up to 5 years if stored in sealed metal or plastic containers. You can use powdered milk to make drinks like hot chocolate or coffee creamer or add it to recipes that call for milk.
Honey: Honey is a natural sweetener made by bees from the nectar of flowers. It is rich in antioxidants and has antibacterial and antifungal properties. It can last indefinitely if stored in airtight glass jars. You can use honey to sweeten tea or coffee or add it to baked goods or sauces, you can even make a variety of alcohol through fermentation and distillation.
Salt: Salt is a mineral that enhances the flavor of food and preserves it from spoilage. It also provides sodium and iodine (if iodized) which are essential for the body’s functions. It can last indefinitely if stored in airtight glass jars. You can use salt to season food or pickle vegetables or meats.
Sugar: Sugar is a sweetener that comes in different forms such as white sugar, brown sugar, raw sugar, or powdered sugar. It provides energy and calories but has no other nutritional value. It can last indefinitely if stored in airtight glass jars. You can use sugar to sweeten food or drinks or add it to baked goods or jams.
Spices: Spices are dried herbs or seeds that add flavor and aroma to food. They also have some health benefits such as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. They can last for up to 4 years if stored in airtight glass jars. You can use spices to make dishes like curry, chili, cinnamon rolls, and apple pie.
These are some of the best dry storage foods to prepare for your pantry. By having these foods on hand, you can ensure that you have enough food supply for any situation and enjoy delicious meals at any time. Keep an eye out for future recipes using these ingredients, and be sure to follow our social media and join our newsletter to stay Informed on all of your prepping and survival needs
