Earlier I made a post about what you need in your kitchen to cook for yourself as an independent adult. This is the only beginning. When you get your first place, you quickly realize there were certain things you took for granted. Your mom isn’t there to buy the groceries, and isn’t it a weird concept to think of buying ketchup?

Here’s my ideal basic list to stock up a decent beginner’s kitchen. Please keep in mind that this does not account for allergies or alternative diets. Vegetarians, vegans, and those with allergies may need to alter this to reflect those dietary needs.

Meat & Dairy

• Milk
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese (without cellulose)
• Unsalted Butter
• Cream cheese
• Chicken Stock (or vegetable stock)

Vegetables & Fruit

• Lemons
• Garlic
• Potatoes
• Onions (I like yellow)
• Canned tomato paste
• Canned diced tomatoes
• Canned tomato sauce
• Extra-virgin olive oil

Grains

• Pasta
• Rice
• Rolled oats

Spices

• Salt & Pepper
• Garlic powder
• Cinnamon
• Dried thyme
• Dried oregano
• Chili powder or cayenne

Baking Needs

• All-Purpose Flour
• Granulated Sugar
• Brown Sugar
• Powdered Sugar
• Cornstarch
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Vegetable oil
• Cocoa powder
• Vanilla extract

Condiments:

• Ketchup
• Mustard (please don’t buy the bright yellow stuff)
• Hot sauce
• Vinegar (white or cider)
• Honey
• Peanut butter
• Maple Syrup
• Soy Sauce

Some extras:

• Plain yogurt
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Canned chickpeas
• Sour cream
• Chocolate chips (semisweet)
• Shallots
• Fresh herbs

I think that covers everything for simple, easy meals. As you figure out what you enjoy cooking, things will change to reflect what you need and what you use most often.

Did I miss anything? What are your essential groceries?