Making the Most of Shelf-Stable Foods: Delicious and Nutritious Meals for Hurricane Helene Recovery
Hurricane Helene left many of us facing food insecurity, and here at the Foscoe Home Team, we're committed to helping our community rebuild. Our no-cost store is stocked with shelf-stable foods—those non-perishable items that can be stored at room temperature—that can be used to create delicious and nutritious meals. But what can you actually do with all those cans and boxes? This post is designed to give you some ideas for simple, satisfying, and healthy meals using the items you'll find in our store.
Understanding Your Pantry Staples:
The great thing about shelf-stable food is its versatility. You're likely to find items like:
Canned goods: Beans (kidney, black, pinto), tuna, chicken, beef, corned beef, vegetables (corn, green beans, peas), tomatoes (diced, whole), fruit (peaches, pears).
Grains: Rice (white, brown), pasta, oats.
Protein sources: Peanut butter, canned lentils.
Other essentials: Dried fruits, nuts, spices.
Simple Meal Ideas:
With these staples, the possibilities are endless. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
One-Pot Pasta Primavera: Combine pasta, canned diced tomatoes, canned vegetables (peas, corn, green beans), and some dried herbs for a simple, hearty meal. Add a can of chicken or lentils for extra protein.
Hearty Bean Soup: Combine beans, diced tomatoes, broth (if available), and your favorite spices for a warming and nutritious soup. Add rice or pasta for extra substance.
Quick Tuna Salad: Mix canned tuna with mayonnaise (if available), celery (if available), and seasonings. Serve on crackers or bread (if available).
Peanut Butter & Banana "Nice" Cream: Blend frozen bananas with peanut butter for a surprisingly delicious and healthy treat. Add a dash of cinnamon or cocoa powder for extra flavor.
Oatmeal Power Bowl: Prepare oatmeal according to package directions. Top with dried fruit, nuts, and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup (if available) for a nutritious and energy-boosting breakfast or snack.
Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole: Combine one can of drained chicken with one cup of cooked rice. Stir in one can of cream of mushroom soup (if available), a half cup of milk (if available), and salt and pepper to taste. Pour into a greased casserole dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until heated through and bubbly. You can add frozen or canned vegetables for extra nutrients and flavor.
Chicken and Black Bean Burrito Bowls: Combine one can of drained chicken with one can of black beans, one can of diced tomatoes, and your favorite taco seasoning. Serve over rice or quinoa (if available). Top with salsa, avocado (if available), and shredded cheese (if available).
Beef and Bean Chili: In a pot, brown one pound of ground beef (if available, otherwise, use one can of drained beef). Add one can of diced tomatoes, one can of kidney beans, one can of pinto beans, and one can of corn, drained. Stir in a packet of chili seasoning (or your own blend of chili powder, cumin, oregano, etc.) and a cup of water or broth (if available). Simmer for at least 30 minutes or until flavors have melded. Serve with crackers or cornbread (if available).
Corned Beef Hash: Drain one can of corned beef and roughly chop it. Sauté in a pan with one chopped onion (if available) and one diced potato (if available, otherwise use one can of diced potatoes). Season with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. Serve hot. You can add a fried egg on top (if you have eggs available) for extra protein.
Tips for Making the Most of Shelf-Stable Foods:
Read labels: Pay attention to expiration dates and nutritional information.
Get creative: Don't be afraid to experiment with different flavor combinations.
Plan your meals: Before you shop, think about what kinds of meals you'd like to make. This will help you choose the right ingredients.
Store properly: Keep your shelf-stable foods in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness.
Remember: The Foscoe Home Team is here to help you through this challenging time. We’re committed to providing the resources you need to get back on your feet. Visit our no-cost store today to see what's available. We're all in this together!
