Kitchen tips: Stock your kitchen pantry with gourmet essentials to create DIY treats

With a few versatile essentials, you can transform everyday moments into gourmet experiences. Karan Ahuja, Business Head at Marche Retail, believes that gourmet cooking starts with thoughtful pantry choices. He says, “Add a touch of indulgence with pesto, apricot jam, berry reduction, or hot honey and transform every bite into a gourmet experience. For example, pesto is a true multitasker — spread it on warm toast, pair it with crackers, or create a delicious mushroom bruschetta. Alongside, hummus always makes a reliable classic, and when paired with bold flavours like Korean gochujang, it brings a unique twist to your table.”

A fine collection of cheese:  

Few things elevate a kitchen like good cheese. Ahuja recommends always keeping cream cheese on hand, and says, “No pantry is complete without cheese. Keep cream cheese handy – one can whip it with garlic powder, almonds, and a dash of black pepper to turn a simple garlic toast into a gourmet delight. For something refreshing, a feta and cherry tomato salad drizzled with balsamic vinegar and a touch of sea salt makes for the perfect light indulgence. Pair creamy brie with hot honey, walnuts, and a hint of paprika for a decadent bite. Add a crusty baguette or artisanal crackers to your shelf, and you’ll always have the perfect base for spreads and toppings.”

To take it up a notch, consider artisanal cheeses. From truffle pistachio to red pesto and mixed herbs, handcrafted varieties add unique character to your dishes. They not only diversify your snacking options but also give you a head start when entertaining guests.

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Sauces, spreads, and snacks:

Spreads and sauces are the unsung heroes of a gourmet pantry. Keep jars of basil pesto, garlic hummus, and tzatziki for quick, flavour-packed snacks. Versatile pasta sauces like arrabbiata and pomodoro can turn simple noodles into comforting meals in minutes. Even a drizzle of hot honey, berry reduction, or apricot jam can elevate a plain cracker into something extraordinary. Ahuja suggests experimenting with combinations that surprise the palate. He mentions, “Think brie with berry jam, sourdough with goat’s cheese, or a crusty baguette with bocconcini. Pair pepper crackers with gouda, or enjoy sourdough toast, garlic toast, and black pepper crackers with classics like cheddar, brie, bocconcini, and Manchego.”

The key lies in stocking mindfully. Choose versatile ingredients that work across snacks, small bites, and full meals, and keep a balance of flavours like something creamy, something bold, something sweet, and something fresh.