Creating authentic global dishes doesn’t require a professional kitchen or exotic ingredients flown in from overseas. With a well-stocked pantry, you can recreate flavors from around the world any night of the week. Whether you’re experimenting with Thai curries, Moroccan tagines, or Japanese stir-fries, having the right essentials on hand streamlines prep and elevates your dishes.
This ultimate pantry guide breaks down the core ingredients across key global cuisines, where to find them, and how to save on them using cashback apps like Fluz.
Global Pantry Staples by Region
- Asian Pantry Essentials
From umami-packed soy sauce to fragrant sesame oil, a few ingredients go a long way in replicating flavors from East and Southeast Asia.
- Soy sauce (light and dark)
- Fish sauce
- Oyster sauce
- Rice vinegar
- Miso paste
- Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- Coconut milk
- Jasmine or sticky rice
- Sesame oil
- Dried shiitake mushrooms
- Nori or other seaweed
Where to shop: H Mart, 99 Ranch, or your local Asian grocer. For delivery, try Weee! or Instacart.
Save with Fluz at stores like Walmart or Target by purchasing gift cards for online grocery shopping: Fluz Walmart
- Mediterranean and Middle Eastern Pantry
Mediterranean and Levantine cuisines are built on herbs, spices, and bright acidic ingredients.
- Olive oil
- Canned tomatoes
- Tahini
- Couscous, bulgur, or farro
- Za’atar
- Sumac
- Canned chickpeas or dried lentils
- Harissa paste
- Preserved lemons
- Pomegranate molasses
Tip: Many of these are available at Whole Foods or Sprouts—both supported by Fluz for cashback savings.
- Latin American Pantry Must-Haves
Latin cuisines are driven by earthy chilies, hearty beans, and aromatic spices.
- Dried or canned black beans, pinto beans
- Cumin, coriander, Mexican oregano
- Chipotle in adobo
- Achiote paste
- Cornmeal or masa harina
- Canned green chilies
- Hot sauces (Valentina, Cholula, etc.)
- Plantain chips or yucca flour (for snacking or baking)
Where to shop: Latin American grocery stores, Aldi, or Walmart. Fluz offers cashback at Walmart and other mainstream stores carrying many Latin staples.
- Indian Pantry Essentials
Building Indian flavors starts with a core set of spices and legumes.
- Cumin seeds, coriander, turmeric
- Garam masala, curry powder, mustard seeds
- Basmati rice
- Lentils (dal), chickpeas
- Ghee or vegetable oil
- Coconut milk
- Tamarind paste
- Green cardamom pods, cloves, cinnamon sticks
Pro tip: Many Indian stores like Patel Brothers offer affordable bulk options. You can also find Indian brands at iShopIndian for online orders.
- African Pantry Essentials
From North African harissa to West African peanut sauces, Africa’s pantry is rich in spice and depth.
- Berbere spice mix
- Harissa paste
- Ground peanuts or peanut butter (natural)
- Red palm oil (use in moderation)
- Fonio, millet, or couscous
- Tomato paste
- Dried fish or stock cubes
Where to shop: Specialty African markets or international aisles in larger grocers like Kroger or Publix.
Pantry Power Tools: Herbs, Grains, and Sauces to Bridge Cuisines
These crossover staples help you flex across regional cuisines.
- Garlic, ginger, onions – base aromatics for almost every cuisine
- Lemons, limes, vinegar – acidity brings brightness
- Rice (white, jasmine, basmati, arborio) – each suits different regional uses
- Canned beans, tomatoes, and coconut milk – shelf-stable and versatile
Organizing Your Global Pantry
- Categorize by region: Use labeled bins or baskets for easy access.
- Rotate stock: Keep expiration dates visible and use FIFO (first-in, first-out) to reduce waste.
- Store spices in airtight jars: Spices lose potency over time; refill from bulk stores when possible.
Save Money While Stocking Up
Pantry-building doesn’t have to break the bank. Cashback apps like Fluz can help you earn money back when shopping for groceries, kitchenware, and cooking subscriptions.
Popular Fluz Partners for Pantry Shopping:
Download the Fluz app here to start saving: https://fluz.app/referred-by/INFO10044577
Final Thoughts
A global pantry is your passport to more flavorful, exciting meals without leaving home. With just a few thoughtful purchases and a little organization, you can bring world cuisines into your kitchen on any weeknight—and stretch your grocery budget with smart tools like cashback apps. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home cook, this pantry guide sets the foundation for culinary adventures right at home.
