Preparing Your Pantry for Winter

— Written By
en Español / em Português
Español

El inglés es el idioma de control de esta página. En la medida en que haya algún conflicto entre la traducción al inglés y la traducción, el inglés prevalece.

Al hacer clic en el enlace de traducción se activa un servicio de traducción gratuito para convertir la página al español. Al igual que con cualquier traducción por Internet, la conversión no es sensible al contexto y puede que no traduzca el texto en su significado original. NC State Extension no garantiza la exactitud del texto traducido. Por favor, tenga en cuenta que algunas aplicaciones y/o servicios pueden no funcionar como se espera cuando se traducen.


Português

Inglês é o idioma de controle desta página. Na medida que haja algum conflito entre o texto original em Inglês e a tradução, o Inglês prevalece.

Ao clicar no link de tradução, um serviço gratuito de tradução será ativado para converter a página para o Português. Como em qualquer tradução pela internet, a conversão não é sensivel ao contexto e pode não ocorrer a tradução para o significado orginal. O serviço de Extensão da Carolina do Norte (NC State Extension) não garante a exatidão do texto traduzido. Por favor, observe que algumas funções ou serviços podem não funcionar como esperado após a tradução.


English

English is the controlling language of this page. To the extent there is any conflict between the English text and the translation, English controls.

Clicking on the translation link activates a free translation service to convert the page to Spanish. As with any Internet translation, the conversion is not context-sensitive and may not translate the text to its original meaning. NC State Extension does not guarantee the accuracy of the translated text. Please note that some applications and/or services may not function as expected when translated.

Collapse ▲

As communities recover from the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, many of us will rely on donated, shelf-stable food supplies to get through the upcoming winter. With the roads destroyed by flooding and still impassable, access to fresh ingredients may be limited for months. It’s important to stock up on canned goods and dried foods to prepare for winter as a precautionary measure. Even if you don’t think you’ll need it now, having an emergency pantry ready can make all the difference in a crisis. 

Key Canned and Dried Goods to Stock:

  • Proteins: Canned meats (chicken, tuna, salmon, beef), beans (black beans, kidney beans, chickpeas)
  • Vegetables: Canned corn, carrots, green beans, peas
  • Carbohydrates: Instant rice, canned potatoes, pasta
  • Fats: Cooking oil, butter, shelf-stable cheese products
  • Other Essentials: Salt, pepper, dried spices, crackers, peanut butter

These ingredients can be combined to create filling meals using simple cooking techniques and a propane stove. Below is a featured recipe using common canned ingredients that can be prepared on a propane stove or a single-burner grill option.

Recipe: Chicken and Potato Hash
This recipe is simple to make, only requires one pan and burner (perfect for a propane stove or single-burner option), and can be customized based on what’s available in your pantry.

canned chicken and potato hash recipe

Why This Recipe Works

  • Canned Potatoes: Pre-cooked, so they don’t require a long cooking time and are easy to crisp up.
  • Canned Chicken: A quick protein source that doesn’t need refrigeration.
  • Mixed Vegetables: Adds vitamins and variety to the dish while using up what you already have.
  • Single Pan Cooking: Keeps it simple and saves on fuel.

Tips for Using a Propane Stove Safely
When using a propane stove or a grill burner, it’s important to follow a few safety precautions to ensure both efficient cooking and safe operation:

  • Set Up on a Flat, Stable Surface: Always place your propane stove or burner on a sturdy, level surface to prevent tipping or accidents.
  • Protect the Flame: Use wind guards or position your stove in a sheltered spot to prevent the flame from blowing out.
  • Adjust the Flame: Most propane stoves have adjustable heat settings. Use a low to medium flame to prevent burning your food and conserve fuel.
  • Use Proper Ventilation: If you’re cooking indoors or in an enclosed area, make sure you have proper ventilation to avoid carbon monoxide buildup. A cracked window or door can make a big difference.
  • Keep a Fire Extinguisher Nearby: Safety first! Always have a fire extinguisher within reach in case of emergencies.

In challenging times, creativity in the kitchen can help stretch resources and feed more people with limited supplies. Combining simple ingredients into hearty meals can boost morale and sustain energy through cold winter days. Using a propane stove and the canned goods donated or stocked up for the winter can guarantee your family stays well-fed even when access to fresh foods is limited.