Cooking like a Chef: Kitchen Essentials with SLICE

At Salt Lake Culinary Education a well-stocked kitchen isn’t about having everything, it’s about having the right things . A thoughtfully stocked pantry gives you the freedom to cook confidently, get creative, and build flavor without overthinking it. Whether you’re just getting started or leveling up your skills, these are the essentials our chefs reach for again and again.

Start with what you love, keep it practical, and let your kitchen grow with you.

PANTRY / DRY GOODS — Your Flavor Foundation

These simple ingredients bring balance, depth, and versatility to everything you cook.

• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Powdered sugar
• Pure vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour (or preferred alternative)
• Baking powder & baking soda
• Cornstarch
• Honey or agave
• Maple syrup
• Olive oil (extra virgin + everyday)
• Neutral oil (canola, avocado, or vegetable)
• Vinegars (red wine, white, apple cider, balsamic, rice vinegar)
• Soy sauce or tamari
• Worcestershire sauce
• Dijon mustard
• Nut butter (peanut, almond, etc.)

GRAINS & STARCHES

These staples turn ingredients into something substantial. Keep a variety on hand so you’re always one step away from a complete dish.

• Pasta (a few shapes for flexibility)
• Rice (jasmine, basmati, brown, Arborio)
• Quinoa or farro
• Oats
• Polenta or grits
• Breadcrumbs or panko
• Tortillas (corn or flour)

CANNED & JARRED 

There’s no shame in a shortcut, especially when it saves time and still delivers big flavor.

• Beans (black, chickpeas, cannellini)
• Lentils
• Tomatoes (whole, crushed, paste)
• Coconut milk
•  Canned tuna or salmon
• Olives or capers
• Broths & stocks cartons/pastes/powders (chicken, vegetable, beef)

REFRIGERATOR : Your Everyday MVPs

These are the ingredients you’ll reach for daily,the ones that bring richness, brightness, and balance to your cooking.

• Butter (salted & unsalted)
• Eggs
• Milk or plant-based alternative
• Cream or half & half
• Cheeses (Parmesan, cheddar, soft cheeses)
• Mayonnaise
• Mustards (Dijon, whole grain)
• Hot sauces (Sriracha, chili crisp, etc.)
• Fresh citrus (lemons, limes)
• Garlic & ginger (Fresh or paste)
• Fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, basil)
• Condiments (pesto, hoisin, miso paste)

HERBS & SPICES : Where Flavor Comes to Life

This is where your cooking becomes yours. A well-rounded spice cabinet lets you explore, experiment, and elevate even the simplest dishes.

• Kosher salt + finishing salt
• Black peppercorns (freshly ground)
• Garlic powder or granulated garlic
• Onion powder
• Paprika (smoked + sweet)
• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Dried oregano & basil
• Ground cumin & coriander
• Turmeric
• Cinnamon
• Bay leaves
• Chili powder or spice blends
• Optional: za’atar, curry powder, everything bagel seasoning