The Ayurvedic pantry

Local foods, fresh from the farm or garden (including quality dairy), are always welcome on the plate, but these are not the only foods that deliver energy and nutrition. The following Ayurvedic pantry list sets out all the ingredients you can keep in the cupboard ready to accompany and complement your meals. Most of the ingredients are available at large supermarkets, but you could also try popping into your local Asian shops to learn even more about these foods from the people who eat them daily. Buy the best quality you can afford, avoid precooked or refined versions of these foods, and just because many of these have a long shelf-life, don’t leave them hanging around for a lifetime – fresh is best!