Useful food all year round!

Heading off to uni means a lot of new experiences... and one of those is usually figuring out how to feed yourself without breaking the bank. Having a well-stocked food cupboard is a game-changer. It can save you from those late-night cravings, last-minute meal panics, and most importantly, it can help you stick to a budget. Here are the essentials we'd recommend you buy first.

Pasta and rice

Let’s start with the real MVPs - pasta and rice are absolute lifesavers. They’re cheap, filling, and you can make a ton of different meals with them. Whether it’s a quick saucy pasta dish or a stir-fry with rice, these staples will be the foundation of many of your meals. Plus, they last ages, so you can stock up and not worry about them going off.

Tinned tomatoes

Tinned tomatoes are the secret weapon in any student’s kitchen. They’re the base for so many dishes such as pasta sauces, curries and soups. Keep a few tins on hand, and you’ll always have the foundation of a decent meal. They’re also super affordable, so you can grab a few whenever you do your shop.

Tinned goods (beans and lentils)

Tinned beans, sweet corn, kidney beans, chickpeas, and lentils are not only packed with protein but are also incredibly versatile. You can toss them into a chilli, make a hearty stew, or even add them to salads meaning they're a great way to bulk out a meal.

Bread

Bread is a must-have in any student cupboard. It’s perfect for toast, sandwiches, or even a quick snack. Wholemeal bread is a healthier option, but white bread does the trick too. If you’re worried about it going stale, you can always freeze it and take out slices as and when you need them.

Cooking oil

A bottle of cooking oil is essential, whether you’re frying up some eggs, roasting veggies, or just dressing a salad. Olive oil is great for its health benefits and taste, but vegetable or sunflower oil works well too and is often cheaper. If you're feeling fancy, you could even get a chilli-infused oil to spice up your food.

Herbs and spices

A few key herbs and spices can turn a bland dish into something delicious. Start with the basics: salt, pepper, mixed herbs, chilli powder, and garlic granules. As you get more comfortable in the kitchen, you can expand your collection and experiment with different flavours.

Stock cubes

Stock cubes are a cheap and easy way to add flavour to your cooking. Whether you’re making soup, a stew, or just want to jazz up your rice, having chicken, beef, or vegetable stock cubes (or all three!) on hand will make a big difference.

Cereal

Having a box of cereal in your cupboard is a no-brainer. It’s a quick breakfast option or even a late-night snack when you’re craving something sweet. Porridge oats are also a great choice – they’re cheap, filling, and can be dressed up with fruits or honey.

Tea and coffee

Whether you’re a tea lover or a coffee enthusiast, having a stash of your favourite brew is essential. It’s a great way to start the day or keep you going during those late-night study sessions. Plus, having a hot drink on hand is always comforting and it's an easy communal item to share with your flat.

Snacks

Let’s be honest, snacks are important. Whether it’s crisps, nuts, biscuits, or dried fruit, having some go-to snacks in your cupboard is key. They’re perfect for when you need a quick energy boost or just something to munch on while. you're chilling. Just make sure to check the expiration date as some snacks don't last as long as you'd expect them to...

Condiments

Ketchup, mayonnaise, soy sauce, and hot sauce – these little extras can make a big difference to your meals. Having a few condiments in your cupboard means you can add a bit of flavour to whatever you’re cooking, without having to do much extra work. If in doubt, cover it in sauce.

Stocking your cupboard with these essentials will set you up for success in the kitchen. You’ll be able to whip up quick, tasty, and budget-friendly meals without too much hassle. So next time you’re at the shop, grab these basics!