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These splurge-worthy pantry staples come in handy from breakfast to dinner.
Anthony Masterson Photography
As a food writer, I love experiencing a culture or a city through its cuisine.
Credit:Anthony Masterson Photography
Still, Ive been trying to be more deliberate with my spending asinflation ratescontinue to rise.
Bureau for Labor Statistics.
Diving into food prices specifically, this category rose 2.2% during the same timespan.
Youre probably thinking, Wait, I thought you were trying to save money?
Chia Smash Jam
Admittedly, my main use for this is more for assembly than cooking.
But I couldnt resist shouting out the item that helps me start every day: chia jam.
Cherry-pomegranate is my favorite, but you also can’t go wrong with strawberry, blueberry, and raspberry.
Its basically how Id make ahomemade jam recipeif I trusted myself to can it successfully.
When Im traveling, I love to tote along a few of their handy squeeze packets.
), fast-food tacos (Yo Quiero Taco Blend), and ranch dressing (Nothing Hidden Ranch).
As acondiment fiend, though, one kind of mustard isnt enough.
Childhood snack references aside, this completescheese boards, deli andbreakfast sandwiches, sausages, andsoft pretzels.
It also acts as incredibly flavorful glue for breading on chicken or fish.
Balsamic glazes are dreamy inhomemade salad dressings, of course.
Ive also used this to elevate pan andpasta sauces, bruschetta, and marinades.
My favorite unexpected use: Drizzling overgrilled fruitand whipped cream.
I consider this money well spent to support Mother Natureand mymeal plan.
Maldon Sea Salt
If itsgood enough for Ina Garten, its definitely good enough for me!
(It beautifully accentuates and balances the sweetness!)
True, its much pricier than classic table salt.
