If the lockdown has taught us anything, it's that instead of stocking up on toilet paper - we really should have been thinking about the cupboards.
Store cupboards essentials are the food items we can keep in our pantries for a while, without them perishing. During these uncertain times, it's best to keep certain foods around that are versatile, quickly prepared and even better stored.
With a lot of empty shelves in our big chain supermarkets, it's time to start thinking a little bit more sustainable, by at least filling your cupboards with things that will last you a while. Keeping things stocked up at home also doesn't mean stockpiling either, buying enough to last you will save food wastage and probably save you some extra pennies in the long run.
Not sure what bits to keep stocked in the cupboard? We've rounded up some of the best essential buys worth keeping topped up.
Best store cupboard essentials to stock up on during lockdown
1. The Snack Organisation Sweet Chilli Rice Crackers 100g
For a tasty snack that's low on the calories and pretty versatile too, these sweet chilli flavoured rice crackers from The Snack Organisation are a complete steal at £1 a packet.
The treats are gluten free, suitable for vegetarians and contain just 107 per quarter serving. What's more, the rice cracker are baked instead of fried, making them a healthy alternative to other snacks.
Price: £1, Sainsburys - buy here now
2. Nairns Coconut & Chia Oat Biscuits
Looking for a store cupboard essential you can snack away on without the guilt? Nairns Coconut & Chia Oat Biscuits are ideal for the snackers among us and are a healthy option for those who just can't resist biscuits.
There's 55% less sugar than the average sweet treat, they're also completely vegan friendly and high in fibre - what more could you want for £1?
Price: £1, Waitrose - buy here now
3. Tesco Tuna Chunks In Brine Pack of 4
Whether it's mixed up in a sarnie or a salad, tuna chunks are another essential to keep in the cupboards for simple and effortless meals.
It can also be served warm or cold making it super versatile depending on your preferences.
Price: £2.83, Tesco - buy here now
4. Smiths Savoury Snacks 24 Pack Scampi and Lemon Fries
As the pubs are closed, why not bring your favourite pub snack home?
This pack of scampi and lemon fries features 24 in the pack of the popular and nostalgic treat. Enough to tide you over, at least for a little while.
Price: £10.79, Amazon - buy here now
5. Caterers Pride Fruit Cocktail in Light Syrup 2.5kg
Tinned fruit is always a good one to keep at home, whether it be as a breakfast starter or as a healthy dessert or snack.
At an impressive £3.29 you'll get 2.5kg worth of chopped up fruit cocktail in a light syrup.
Price: £3.29, Iceland - buy here now
6. Uncle Bens Microwave Rice Mixed Selection Pack of 12
Rice is another must have for the cupboards. If you struggle with getting the perfect rice at times, this mixed selection pack from Uncle Ben's is one to consider.
In each box you'll get six packets of long grain rice and six packets of wholegrain rice. There's no added preservatives or colours in the ingredients and the rice cooks in the microwave in just two minutes.
Price: £10.99, Amazon - buy here now
7. The Skinny Food Co Best Selling Sauces Bundle
A burger is only as good as the sauce to go with it, this sauce bundle from the Skinny Food Co gives you great tasting sauces, without the guilt.
In this trio you'll have tomato sauce, garlic mayo and smokey bbq sauces, all are free from fat, sugar and gluten among other things; allowing you to enjoy pretty much as much saucy goodness as you like.
Price: £11.79, The Skinny Food Co - buy here now
8. KP Nuts 10 Pack Box of Original Salted Peanut Share Bags
Peanuts are a staple snack to keep at home thanks to being high in proteins. Add some to your shakes, sprinkle a few on your desserts or enjoy on their own with this pack of 10 share bags from KP Nuts.
Price: £34.90, Amazon - buy here now
9. KTC Chopped Tomatoes 12 Pack
If there's anything you cant add flavour too with some chopped tomatoes, we'd like to hear it.
Keeping stocked up on chopped tomatoes is always a good idea to add the flavour and texture to a wide range of homely dishes.
Price: £3.60, Sainsburys - buy here now
10. Great Scot Red Split Lentils 500g
Lentils are from the pulse family, making them a good source of vitamins, minerals and protein. They're also super simple to prepare, simply soak them and you're good to go.
If you're stuck on meal ideas the options are plentiful, whether it's a soup or curry. At £1.50 per pack, it's an affordable essential to keep stocked in the cupboard for quick lunch and dinner ideas.
Price: £1.50, Tesco - buy here now
11. Chefs Larder Penne Pasta 3kg
Dried pasta is a store cupboard essential everyone should keep stocked. This 3kg bag of penne pasta from Chef's Larder is pretty good bargain for under £20.
Make a range of versatile and easily prepared meals in minutes.
Price: £16.90, Amazon - buy here now
From food to your favourite tipples for storing, check out the best box wine deals you can buy now for delivery to your door.
