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A key principle of prepping is to avoid “one-hit wonders.” What does that mean? Simply put, you can’t afford to store items that only serve a single purpose. Every item in your stockpile should have multiple uses—it’s just smart prepping.
When building your food reserves, it’s important to think carefully about what you’re storing. You want foods that not only have a long shelf life but can also be used in a variety of ways to keep meals interesting. After all, food fatigue is a real challenge.
Pinto Beans
Pinto beans are high in protein and can go a long way in satisfying hunger. Their versatility makes them an excellent addition to any prepper’s pantry.
- Serve cooked beans over crackers, toast, or biscuits for a hearty meal
- Fry them to make refried beans
- Add them to a stew for extra bulk
- Make a bean soup by combining them with canned meat or veggies
Oats
Steel-cut oats are a long-lasting staple, and oat groats offer even more shelf life.
- Eat them plain for a quick meal
- Make overnight oats for convenience
- Use them as a thickener for stews
- Eat them raw or mix them with nuts and dried fruit for a trail mix
- Mix with peanut butter for an easy snack
- Add to smoothies or yogurt for a nutritious boost
Rice
You can do just about anything with rice. It’s amazing in several dishes—or even by itself. But only store white rice, as brown rice can go rancid.
- Make fried rice for a flavorful dish
- Serve plain rice as a side
- Add rice to soups or stews for added bulk
- Create rice pudding for a sweet treat
- Grind into rice flour for baking
Pasta
Dried pasta in various shapes is essential for food storage.
- Cook and top with butter, cheese, or your favorite sauce
- Add pasta to stews for a filling meal
- Mix into soups for extra texture
- Serve cold in pasta salads
Lentils
Lentils are high in protein and can be dressed up in multiple ways, making them a valuable addition to your stockpile.
- Add to soups for extra heartiness
- Mix into stews
- Cook and cool them for a lentil salad
- Mash them to form lentil patties
- Add to chili for a protein boost
- Use in casseroles for Variety
Quinoa
Quinoa is a protein-packed grain that will keep you full and energized.
- Cook and chill to use in salads
- Serve as a seasoned side dish
- Grind quinoa into flour for baking
- Add cooked or canned veggies to a quinoa bowl
Canned Meat
Though not gourmet, canned meat can be used in countless ways.
- Eat straight from the can for a quick protein snack
- Add to stews for more substance
- Stir into soups for added flavor and nutrition
- Fry it up to make a quick taco filling
Peanut Butter
A prepper favorite, peanut butter lasts a long time when stored in a cool, dark area.
- Eat raw for a protein-rich snack
- Use in sauces for a savory dish
- Make energy balls for a quick boost
- Spread on waffles or pancakes
- Use in cookies for a sweet treat
Dried Veggies
Dehydrated or freeze-dried veggies are lightweight and nutrient-dense.
- Add to stews for extra flavor
- Stir into soups for a hearty meal
- Rehydrate and eat them plain
- Add to casseroles
- Use to make a flavorful vegetable broth
Honey
Though not filling, honey offers an energy boost and has medicinal properties.
- Use as a natural sweetener for drinks
- Substitute for sugar in recipes
- Add to energy balls or bars
- Incorporate into sauces
Bouillon Cubes
Flavor is key in survival situations, and bouillon cubes can make even the simplest dishes taste better.
- Add to pots of beans for extra seasoning
- Stir into rice for more flavor
- Dissolve in water for an instant broth
- Use to flavor soups and stews
Flour
Flour is a must-have in any food stockpile for its versatility.
- Use to make bread, tortillas, or biscuits
- Thicken soups and stews for a heartier meal
Canned Beans
Though heavy, canned beans are a nutritious necessity.
- Combine different types to create a hearty bean soup
- Add to stews for extra protein
- Make a quick chili
- Eat directly from the can if needed
Canned Tomatoes
Stock various types of canned tomatoes, including whole, diced, sauce, and paste.
- Add chunky tomatoes to soups and stews
- Mix into bean dishes for acidity and flavor
- Serve over pasta for a quick meal
- Eat cold as part of a salad or side
Get the Recipe: Canned Tomatoes
Instant Potatoes
When stored properly, instant potatoes can last a long time and offer versatility.
- Simply add water to make mashed potatoes
- Use as a base for breads and other baked goods
- Thicken stews by stirring in instant potatoes
- Make potato pancakes or waffles
- Whip up a comforting potato soup in no time
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