How to Stock Your Kitchen on a Budget

For anyone moving into a new home, having to stock or restock your kitchen may feel overwhelming. According to the nonprofit organization Feeding America, the country wastes 70 billion pounds of food every year.

Every kitchen at Arbor Parc by Lennar has upgraded cabinetry, counters and appliances thanks to Lennar’s Everything’s Included^® promise. This means higher-end fixtures and finishes are built right into the base price, and won’t cost extra. So if you’re searching for a new home in South Florida, consider Arbor Parc, where every owner can enjoy upgraded living, and cooking!

Whether you’re a casual cook or a diehard foodie, knowing how to properly stock your kitchen with staples and appliances is the best way to save money and eat well.

Spices and herbs can turn any meal around. Along with your classic salt and pepper, some recommended basics to keep on hand are all-purpose seasoning, Italian seasoning, and cumin. Mixed seasonings can help save you money and space, as they combine many of the spices you would’ve had to purchase separately.

Cooking basics are required for just about any dish. Have a small stock of items like cooking oil, cooking spray, sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder and molasses. Depending on what kind of dishes you’re making regularly, you might need to supplement this list with your own everyday items.

Rice is one of the most versatile foods out there. Keep your favorite type of rice on hand for when you need to whip up a quick and filling meal. How often you cook rice can dictate if buying a rice cooker would be a good investment, so you can prepare it quickly and easily whenever you need it.

Butter, eggs and milk are part of most cooking and baking. There are also healthier alternatives for those who are vegan or lactose intolerant. Look up recipes that substitute regular milk for almond milk when trying to recreate your favorite dishes.

Kitchen tools can be overwhelming if you don’t know what you really need. If you’re lost or your kitchen feels cluttered, stick to the basics: a pot, skillet, casserole dish, spatula, baking sheet, plates and silverware. No need to grab a large knife set, either; a basic chef’s knife with a broad cutting blade, a bread knife with a serrated blade, and a basic paring knife for peeling and small jobs are all you really need.

Everyone has their own idea of what constitutes kitchen essentials. Some consider bread, pasta, peanut butter and potatoes must-haves as well. Whatever you require in your kitchen, be sure to keep your budget in mind, and check out available Lennar homes in the Palm Beach area!

Anna Young