MY FAVOURITE ORGANIC PANTRY STAPLES
Happy Organic September! Organic September is an initiative from the Soil Association, who work to raise awareness of the many benefits of consuming organic, whether that be food, farming, fashion or beauty. Supporting organic products goes a long way towards the long-term health of the planet and of our bodies, so I try to buy organic foods wherever I can, especially for the ingredients that I use the most in my kitchen. These are my faves.
I need to have basmati rice in the pantry at all times — it’s the basis of kitchari, my absolute go-to meal for breakfast, lunch or dinner, and plenty of other fave recipes too. White rice is much more digestible than brown rice, but Duchy’s do a brown basmati as well if that’s more your speed. Both are grown without artificial chemicals and fertilisers, and part of the sales benefit The Prince of Wales's Charitable Foundation.
SUPERMARKET OWN-BRAND OR FARMERS’ MARKET ORGANIC EGGS
A few years ago, I judged the eggs for the Soil Association’s annual BOOM Awards. While there were definitely some winners, I would say that organic eggs taste, feel and are better. Your local shop should have own-brand organic eggs, or try a farmers’ market.
As you may have noticed if you’ve ever followed any of my recipes, ghee is my absolute favourite cooking fat. This golden oil, which is actually clarified butter, has a high smoke point, is safe for those with lactose intolerance, is shelf-stable and tastes just as good in cooking as it does lathered onto warm banana bread or toast.
BUY WHOLEFOODS ONLINE MUNG BEANS
I love the Buy Wholefoods Online website for pantry staples that last months for the simple reason that you can order in bulk, thus saving on packaging. Since I use mung beans in many recipes as well, I know I can get through large quantities, but these organic ones come in various sizes adapted to all kitchens, from 500g to 25kg.
Made from organic coconuts, this high-quality dairy-free, vegan and wheat-free product is perfect for dal or veg masala. You can also dilute it with water and use it instead of coconut milk.
STEENBERGS ORGANIC SPICES (most of them)
I always default to Steenbergs because I know they make fairtrade, organic spices and are committed to sustainable and ethical practices. They are easily found in organic shops and larger supermarkets, or online.
Tamari is a great gluten-free alternative to soy sauce, and I like to get organic as well because it’s non-GMO, which can be an issue with soy products. Clearspring’s tamari is made in Japan using traditional methods.