Tips & Tricks for Planning & Building a Year Long Pantry

[@ginco5203]

I started years ago when we were struggling financially with 3 small kids. I strictly purchased the sale items from the store ad and clipped coupons. I made menus for the week from the loss leaders BUT I bought enough for 2 dinners and stocked the 2nd dinner. In 6 months we didn't have to deal with skimpy meals, meals with missing ingredients, etc. My pantry was finally able to round out meals and now it's at least a years worth in my storage.

[@SuttonsDaze]

It’s amazing how a little planning can make such a big difference!

[@MichelleJones-p4e]

I like this idea. I think it’s a good idea to stock a pantry with specific meals in mind. That way, when you go to make the meal, you’ve got everything you need. Thanks for sharing! ❤️🌹

[@getinthekitchen64]

I just started canning 1/5/25 after doing months of research and I've canned 32 jars of food thus far on my days off from work. I've already planned out what I'm canning tomorrow and I can't wait! ❤

[@SuttonsDaze]

It sounds like you are off to a great start!

[@getinthekitchen64]

I'm having so much fun learning a new, important, and life changing skill.

[@dottiebittinger4943]

Be careful, canning can be addictive lol.​@@getinthekitchen64

[@SpecialK8]

You will never regret it! Congratulations you are a prepper! It really makes you feel good to know you’re prepared for the future! Good luck, may God bless you! You know you are on the right path!

[@MissouriPrepper64052]

I love putting pie filling in my oatmeal! It just takes it to a whole new level and pie filling is shelfstable! Two worlds collide when you have oats and pie filling!

[@SarahS1214]

That sounds SO good!

[@MaryWehmeier]

Great idea!

[@ASaltyGurl]

Absolutely

[@christines2787]

Plain yogurt and a tablespoon or homemade jelly, slightly warmed.

[@danielmacneal6177]

Long comment... because you asked! Last year we sat down with our big stack of recipes and took the calendar down off the wall. We started filling in dates with meals and when we were done we had 13 weeks of supper with no repeats, except for two or three nights of our absolute favorites that we really *wanted* to repeat. Next, we made a list of all the ingredients in our stack of recipes. Yes, this part was easy. And yes, this part was *very* time consuming. We did it in small chunks over the span of a month or two. Now, we have a meal plan that we repeat (more or less) 4 times a year and a bill of goods that we stock the pantry from. We don't get bored, we don't get fatigued, and we never have to ask the dreaded "What's for..." question. We also don't treat the plan as a law. When we want to do something different, we just do. We're old; we're allowed. 😂

[@SuttonsDaze]

You're a rock star!! Great plan!

[@MaryWehmeier]

Same here.

[@robihawley368]

I love it! "We're Old, We're Allowed!!"🤣 I love the organized plan too. I've been working on something similar - it's time consuming so I'm glad you shared that it's worth the effort!

[@do-it-yourself-skills]

I started stocking my pantry when I got my first tiny apartment in the late 70s by buying 2 or 3 each of the stuff I used and bought during sales. Today, I keep about a year's worth of food stocked and only shop once a month. I cook just about everything from scratch and most of what I stock up on are very versatile ingredients. I never menu plan and cook whatever I feel like eating - because I always have all the ingredients on hand.

[@makalapuamegs1056]

Your advice on mixing it up with staples made me think of my nomadic days living out of a 72 square foot van turned RV! Bought tortillas instead of bread and have made “tacos” out of canned meats (😂 Spam included) fish and veggies all of which would last off grid in the wilderness for 14+ days! Dried fruit and oats kept my stomach full! Powdered electrolytes kept me hydrated when added to my water filtered by a Berkey! Multiple use for everything owned and my motto was if you buy something you need to get rid of something to save room! This included food! Spices can literally spice up any meal!

[@mariacampbell581]

After a hurricane, there was a woman standing on the side of the road. The news crews were there and they were interviewing the governor and this woman. She looked at the governor and said "When is the government going to bring me some food. I'm hungry." They fed her once on camera with a sandwich. One time she had food.. Our pantries should feed us 24/7. Good video. I've been working on deepening and broadening my pantry for us and the animals.

[@debbiemaxwellallen5631]

I love that you normalize preparedness without panic. I think my food storage could keep us a couple of months so far, but I have a few holes to fill in. Thanks for the kick in the pants!

[@SuttonsDaze]

That is awesome to hear you are working on it!

[@janicepritchard4871]

I'm on a low income, had flu and too poor to go out but I've been grateful of stocked cupboards after following your enthusiasm in your videos! Thank you Leesa ❤

[@LindaEdwards-x3n]

Ms. Leisa! I have to tell you a story! My step daughter taught me how to make and can jelly. Before that I hadnt thought about canning. Then I found you while looking up a recipe and have followed you since. Thats been about a year ago and I have learnt so much from you! I've canned everything from all kinds of meats and vegetables and my new husband of 2 years has gotten on board with the pantry preparedness and we have gathered so much that we have cleared out a spare bedroom and this next weekend, he will be building shelves from 2×4's that will go all around the room! We are both 68 and he was my high school sweetheart and 2 years ago i moved from Oklahoma to Mississippi to marry him and thought I wouldn't have to worry any winter weather anymore! Low and behold, yesterday Mississippi got 6 inches of snow in an unprecedented event! And we DID NOT have to worry with last shopping because we have everything we need !! We're just sitting here today watching the sun slowly melt the snow and LOVING our preparedness!! And its all due to you! I wish I'd done this when my kuds where young! You can bet, I'm pushing them to start doing the same also! Thank you so much!!

[@SuttonsDaze]

Fantastic! I loved this story. ♥️

[@11Aradia11]

Grab a cuppa, this is a long one. I used to be the person who had just enough food etc to get through the fortnight. The prepper channels were going off in early 2020 about this unknown illness, saying grow a garden. My child is prone to respiratory illnesses so over a few weekends in February I had filled my tiny pantry plus my tiny freezer and brought PPE from the hardware store which was in short supply. I thought worst case scenario we'd eat though it all in the coming months. i tried to fill a Ventolin/Flixotide prescription which was extremely difficult as people were stocking up even if they didn't have asthma. We were blessed and secured the last Ventolin in my city. 2 days before lockdown I ordered my usual 1 years toilet paper which was only honoured because I was a pre-existing customer. This was the time Australia made international news for a punch up at the supermarkets over loo paper. In March Australia went into lockdown and because I'd prepared as best as new prepper could we didn't have to leave the house for a month. It wasn't until I returned to the grocery store to maintain our food levels that I noticed only the expensive food was available and there was limited fresh produce. I was forever thankful I listened to the preppers. Having a stocked pantry does takes some pressure off this solo parent. Over the last 4 years, I have upgraded my freezers as my budget allows... Got creative about where I store my extended pantry and supplies plus have a thriving courtyard garden. Yep, I have limited space to work with. I've learnt to be a savvy shopper and my sister has admitted she wished she had done what I had done cause I beat the big inflation hike if 2022. In our family we say things once or over conversation so we don't push our ideas onto each other. I will never go back to having just enough - having an extended pantry has come in very handy on tight budget months or when we are sick. I am still learning, just this week we ran out of milk cause I can't find one without Bovaer in it. We are also having to adjust our supplies as our preferences and lifestyle changes. Honestly, give it a go ... start where you are ... bit by bit it adds up....

[@SuttonsDaze]

Brilliant!

[@blackrock5749]

I’m in the process of closing my small business with my husband. We have owned it for ten years and it’s just not worth signing another 3 year lease. We are in the process of getting guardianship of our disabled 5 year old grandson. I won’t be able to work (maybe from home) my husband will have to find a job. I’m not worried about what we are going to eat because you’ve taught me how to build my pantry. Thank you so much!

[@valeriekhall]

Wishing you luck, peace, & ease in this time of MASSIVE transition for your family. You’re doing a wonderful thing for your grandbaby.

[@SuttonsDaze]

I'm so glad that your pantry is helping you through this transition!

[@debbywelchel3893]

I live in the country I learned through snowstorms about stocking up. Ready to stay at home for a long time. Thanks Leisa. Stay warm be safe.

[@SuttonsDaze]

That’s great to hear! You’re ready for anything now.

[@barbarawinter3736]

You are never too old to start a well stocked pantry. I grow a garden and can/freeze/preserve/eat fresh all of produce. I learned as a child from my mother had to can, cook, bake and enjoy it all. So far in Canuary my family have eaten mainly from our pantry/freezer but I have learned many new recipes from the contributors to the Canuary pantry challenge that I will be trying that will expand our meals into the future.

[@natasha_32404]

I just want to say thank you for all the knowledge you provide. I live in Panama City FL and we got snow yesterday, 5” of snow! We lost power last night and it’s still out. Because of your videos I had bought a Coleman stove and have diversity with all that I have canned. It is because of you my family can enjoy warm meals! Also, coffee, I had2 cups of coffee because I bought a pour over coffee filter. Despite the cold, we have comfort. Thank you

[@SuttonsDaze]

I’m so glad I could help!

[@SarahS1214]

I’ve been working on mine for a little while-still need canned meats, but I use the things I have. My 24 yr old granddaughter thinks I’m crazy for buying extra things beyond tonight’s dinner. I tell her I stock up to have a variety available. I’ve done the whole 2 weeks menu when my kids were little. Now I could live off left overs! So I’ll look through my pantry for something that sounds good that night. Have not had the whole weather, job loss etc conversation with her yet. She hasn’t experienced those things yet to really understand. Thank you for the video!

[@justjoanish]

It is hard for young people to grasp it when they don't have enough life behind them to understand what could be in front of them.

[@paaitje]

I started years ago with buying more than I needed for one meal, but it stayed with that. About a year and a half ago, I purchased myself a pressure canner and have been canning ever since. First, just a little, because I wasn't familiar with the process yet. But after that, in the last half year or so, I shifted my priorities and am now mainly funding canning and other prepping projects. Thank you for being a source of good advice and motivation in my journey!

[@jerryglass6513]

I stated stocking up on food when my husband went back to school at 48yr old. There was a group calld the grocery game. The main thing i got out of it was NEVER stock up on a staple at regular price. Only when its on sale. The group watched store sales and realized they rotated items about every 3 to 5 weeks. They also matched manufacturers coupons with sale items. They put out a list every week showing the current sale but would indicate if it normally ( in a nother week or so) be on sale at a lower percentage. It changed how i shop.

[@rebeccapritchard6084]

My advice would be to most people is Start where you are! Food security is Important, but realistically at my age I don’t need food to last 25 years although I have that for my kids and grandkids! Teaching my grands is more important for me than stocking long term! We need to teach the younger generation how to preserve through canning, dehydrating,freeze drying whatever methods we can! Really canning has just come back I’ve noticed in last 5 or so years! I have always canned growing up and I am amazed at how few kids my grandkids’s ages have never had home canned foods Ever! Thank You for sharing all you know and putting your videos out for people To learn! I’ve just started dehydrating foods so Love the information! Canning is still my go to as that’s how I’ve grown up! Good info!

[@karenwigton7345]

Lisa its hard to name one thing I've learned here im 71 have 18 grandkids 4 grown kids 13 great grandkids lov them all I can for my shelves long ago there were very tough times. I'm on a farm 1/4 mile driveway in minnesota have been snowed in surgeries walked my driveway in snow to meet boss to get to work my ex left as new woman who was more fun but my family stays close by me my full pantries can feed me them and have holiday meals so what I learned by your videos is everything I've done is not ridicules as I have been told before I'm mostly prepared for along time all though my enfatory says I need to can more tomato juice so my heart thanks you I've followed you since 2019 into 2020. I'm not a stalker lol I just follow honest people so again thankyou sorry this is so long been on the farm 20 years here and still learning

[@SuttonsDaze]

You have done an amazing job of preparing! Sounds like you lost the biggest problem. Big hugs!

[@bronzegonnagy]

I'm a Minnesota chick too. Keep your pantry stocked and your family close by. Grandma power!

[@nancywest1926]

Now that ive stopped giggling about fuzzy watermelon...it wasnt something in my own prepping, but seeing how many apartment dwellers, such as myself, are discouraged by some channels due to space. It's been a learning curve here, but its doable. Ive learned to do what others here do as well and encourage folks that are just starting out and feel overwhelmed.

[@SuttonsDaze]

It’s amazing how much you can do in a small space!

[@victoriamarx1886]

My pantry which I started in August of 2022 now contains enough to sustain me for at least 1 year. My favorite tip is to buy food when it's in season or on sale and then can it during the winter. Saves money by helping me heat my home during the cold times. I also use my pantry items to make ready to eat meals in jars so that all I need to do is open and heat.

[@KillerSmurfy]

We have an additional full bathroom in our apartment that we hardly use. So, we decided to repurpose the bathtub as a storage space for items like toilet paper, paper towels, and our WaterBOB. We placed a piece of plywood over the tub and tucked the WaterBOB underneath. On top, we organized all the items I mentioned earlier. We also keep our cat litter in there. This clever solution has freed up space in other areas for us to stock up on more food. We conceal everything behind a shower curtain.

[@janetnunn210]

I have been feeling under the weather this last few days so I decided to do a pantry inventory.just seeing what I have and what I might need is making me feel better..I dont need much.what a blessing.

[@SuttonsDaze]

That is great to hear that you are taking care of yourself!

[@JoaneyPatton]

Instead of paying $15 for large gallon glass jars, get a gallon of pickles in a glass jar for around $8. Once you eat the pickles, you have a nice glass jar

[@bbrhody831]

Those Pickles can also be turned into relish with a food processor

[@robinm2457]

Powdered milk can make do many things. From milk to drink bake with in breads muffins cakes cream cheese sour cream gravies, yogurt ect. This replaces a lot of things to buy. I just figured out if I make a loaf of sourdough bread every week for 15 months I am spending $1.85 a loaf using my storage. 60 lb of high protein flour will make 71 loafs. What a saving and I know what is in my food and I can pronounce every ingredient( all 6 items in the recipe). Thank you sweetie for your knowledge and inspiration

[@fourdayhomestead2839]

It just makes sense to have a minimum of 1 yr supply. A little every month adds up so fast. It's always been my lifestyle, so I'm not one for excuses. 😊

[@SuttonsDaze]

I agree! It's definitely a great feeling to have that peace of mind.

[@maracusumano4820]

It sure does! I was a single mom with 3 kids and I still managed to have a backup supply of food.

[@debbiesykes5491]

I started years ago getting my pantry and foods up up so I believe in a years supply it only takes planning setting goals

[@LurkerSmurf]

Since we're talking about a one-year pantry, one thing you can do for the big, expensive annual feasts is take note of what you serve every year and buy it on clearance (checking for dates, quality, & package integrity) for 11 months down the road.

[@SuttonsDaze]

Love it!

[@OnaMuir]

I “cheated” last week. I used canned mushroom soup with pork chops. PANTRY CHALLENGE!I did serve taters and green beans also. Clear those shelves and freezers! 🥰

[@SuttonsDaze]

It’s always good to use what you have on hand!

[@Gina-de8gb]

Just keep getting one extra can at a time , you'll get there , slow but steady , THANK YOU LEISA

[@SuttonsDaze]

That's a great way to build a pantry!

[@Mrs.CreeksideMaples]

💯 AGREED… milk and Eggs grocery runs….. trying to convince my mom of the importance of PLANNING!!!!

[@JanetsAppalachianKitchen]

You inspired me a few days ago to start organizing and inventorying my pantries and I am so thankful. I found things I had no idea I had on hand and way too many of other things. I also realized I don't need any more pickles, have way too many I need to eat on. I also put all my pasta in airtight containers, wow the room I have now to move things around. Thank you for keeping us on our toes!

[@SuttonsDaze]

That is great that you are getting organized!

[@Hikingdogmama]

I’m working to get meals made up in jars or in the freezer, as I’ll find out next week if I’ll need rotator cuff surgery. Hubby just doesn’t cook like I do, that’s why he does the dishes! Make it easier on him to fix meals if I do need surgery, potentially being one-handed for 5-6 weeks.

[@JuneLewis-u8u]

It’s hard to stock a yr for just me.. 75 yr old widow. I think I’m up to 8 months food & full stocked meds toiletries pew pew etc…. I’m concerned about spoilage before I can use. Love ur videos ❣️💗

[@SuttonsDaze]

You are doing an amazing job! Keep up the good work!

[@gloriachambers3272]

I am 75 years old. Quit canning years ago. With all the turmoil politically I felt a huge push to arm myself food wise. I have a freezer full of meat I always buy on sale. I went out in a matter of months and put up rice 110 pounds, pasta 96 pounds, beans 3 kinds total 90 pounds, canning salt etc. the one big expense was the all American canner and cases of jars, rings. Many of the goods are in cans with absorbers. I am ready to can everything I can to finish my stock. I also purchased cases of veggies, soups, as well as spices. I can thank the new administration for putting the fear in me of higher prices, and less availability of food. At 75 my time may be limited but my food will remain to feed my family. We all need to prepare for all types of problems, loss of jobs, illness, etc. God blessings to all.

[@SuttonsDaze]

Sounds like you have a great plan in place!

[@karimuis9048]

We have had really hard times financially in the last 3 months. I don’t have a years worth of food, but we have had enough, that I can get “needed” items weekly, to get us by until things start moving forward again. Now with the cold, ice-rain, and snow, causing us to be “on lockdown basically, it’s been good to have. “Comfort” foods and special treats in the pantry, during financial and weather related struggles. One bite at a time, it’s also caused me to see gaps, and weak areas that need to be worked on.

[@belindadunne4312]

My biggest pleasant surprise over the past year stocking my pantry was just how much my family loved the home canned ugly chicken, beef cubes, and ground beef. They love it, and I get the benefit of easy meal prep using my stores. Never thought it would be so convenient. On another note, you are my favorite content creator because you tell it how it is with humor and unpretentious. Your ideas and recommendations are top shelf. Thank you! 😊❤️

[@SuttonsDaze]

Thank you 😊

[@trish237]

You will never go wrong by starting with the basics. My advice is to keep it that way until you have 1 years' worth stocked up. After that, branch out into items that "go with" the basics. In most cases, depending on if you stored them properly, those basics can now be the backbone of your successful plan for the future. No matter what may come your way, you will be able to conquer life's challenges,... one bite at a time.

[@darleneneumann5182]

I've been following you this year and the last part of last year. It's amazing how fast my pantry has grown. Thanks for trying to help us

[@SuttonsDaze]

It's great to hear you are making progress!

[@justjoanish]

For people who are trying to avoid things like cream of mushroom soup, you can either look into making your own dry mix or make a recipe different, such as the pasta one. Some olive oil or butter or butter powder. Some vegetables and the meat and pasta, and you still have a great skillet or casserole dish.

[@trudyhoffmann6405]

Once I did my inventory this month .. I realized that I need to can much more of hamburger and sausage. We helped out family that was in a tough spot, and now we're low enough that I want to replenish it. The canned food we have is what we eat, very little from the store. My next goal is to clean out the huge deep freeze. Lol that's a huge task, I've been able to fill it with sale items, leftovers or bulk meals, now need to be eaten or into jars.

[@abclblair1]

I love this kind of talk because I don't want to be a hoarder either. I want to put on my shelves what we will use. One thing that you said before was to stock up on fun things as well. This made so much sense to me because we all have those cravings and it nice to just go and get it off your shelf. I took that to heart and I started vacuum sealing fun stuff and a lot of dried goods. Not long ago my wife said she wanted to make spaghetti but couldn't see any spaghetti pasta. It just so happened that I vacuum sealed a hole bunch and was able to get it for her. She is getting more use to my stocking and is now looking at what we have and is helping me to organize. It's working. Thanks Alvin Blair

[@lilvalentine545]

Not really a pantry tip but I got really good with my freezer. A single mum of three and working shift work. We had a large chest freezer. I would spend one day a week cooking. I'd cook up 5 or 6 family size dinners all at once and pack them all into single serve containers. I had a white board on the wall above the freezer divided into sections the same as the freezer lay out. This was 'the menu' and worked a bit like a map with a tally of how many serves of each meal was in stock. The kids could then look at the board and see what meals were in each section of the freezer. They would grab out the one they wanted ( without having to dig) , cross it off the board and go warm it up for their dinner. A couple of times I got ill with the flu and the kids were all well fed for up to two weeks with the meals I had prepared ahead of time. The kids also helped me decide what to cook and helped out on cooking day. They're all grown up now and wonderfully confident in the kitchen and I think this worked really well for us.

[@jenniferharris3989]

My sister in law drinks wine in big bottles. i clean them out, dry them in the oven on 300° cool them down and fill them with beans rice and lots more stuff free rat proof storage.😊

[@SuttonsDaze]

It's always good to find creative storage solutions.

[@tinamcclure7984]

I hit up a used store here in Mexico. I got 40 assorted sized jars. I paid about 7 buck for them. Which is cheap down here. I now have 6 jarsof soup in my freezer

[@tinamcclure7984]

I make soup at least 3 times a week. I eat it for 2 meals and then freeze the rest in jars. Trying to get away from plastics. As they wear out I am replacing with glass.

[@Jordan.M.-qb6ky]

I saved my marinara store bought jars for a while. Great for beans, rice, lentils. I used the sauce, washed the labels off and repurposed. As I got more money I changed up storage. My point is use what you have.

[@lovelight9164]

I had a friend give me several of those bottles mine currently have water in them but you just helped me to decide what to do with several things I still have in my freezer taking up space. Thank you.

[@ceruleanraccoon7058]

My one tip is to get a calendar and just write down what you eat for dinner every day for a year. At the end of the year, add it all up, and that's approximately what you need for a year. If you want to do all your meals for the day you can do that too. It helped me nail down how much of everything we actually eat

[@susandrwiega4342]

Very great idea to do. Never thought of that. I'm going to try and remember to do it. Thanks for your help.😊

[@michelelindsley812]

I was upset when I first wrote a comment on here, but since the first week in November I have came a LONG way to be prepared , TYSM!

[@SuttonsDaze]

That is great to hear, and I'm glad this video helped!

[@reginabecker17]

Thank you so much. This is such a helpful video in soooo many ways, you are such a great teacher and inspirarer

[@Gabrielle499]

I live in Canada and 4 times/year we get a tax rebate cheque from the government. It’s around $100 and I use that extra money to go through the flyers & stock up on what’s on sale at that time. 👍 Love this channel, thank you. ❤️

[@SuttonsDaze]

That's a great strategy, and you are so smart to use that extra money to stock up on sales!

[@jeannieknudsen7516]

TY much for reminder to do pantry check👍. I wz moving jars around & found a jar of meat today that had come unsealed 😕.

[@SuttonsDaze]

Oh no, that's always a bummer!

[@bmit04jessesue72]

"Throwing a vegetable in there for giggles, cause it has to have something green." .... Is my new saying to the family! LOL I make poor man's stew for my family (my grandma's title for it)- ground beef, can of vegetable soup, a few extra frozen veggies, squirts of Ketchup and some pasta. One of our fav meals. I emptied my linen closet, put the bedding for each person's bed in their own closet, each child has their own set of towels in their room to wash and blankets were sorted as well. I use that closet to store - toilet paper, some paper towels, tissues, soap/body wash, shampoo, toothpaste, deodorant, new toothbrushes, Qtips, feminine products...you get the idea. One easy spot to grab what you need. I did this because I have one shower bathroom so small you have just enough room to walk in, turn and close the door.

[@SuttonsDaze]

You've got this!

[@theresagoodwin6518]

When I first started I started stocking what I used most. (Flour sugar, beans etc. when I felt I had a good start I moved to other areas of the pantry. I felt that helped me build my pantry up a little quicker.

[@carolyns1131]

I absolutely love,love,love Spam (especially maple flavor or bacon flavor or teriyaki flavor)!!!

[@greatlakescanary3237]

My tip is to buy shelving sooner than later.

[@MELINDASSIMPLEBLESSINGS]

Absolutely

[@robihawley368]

Thanks for all of your hard work making these videos. When I start getting overwhelmed or discouraged with my prepping I watch a few videos and feel re-invigorated!

[@yvonnekilbyhoward9929]

Again you hit the nail on the head. I grew up eating canned goods salted hams frozen food from the garden.

[@leeperkins963]

Oh gosh Leisa you made me laugh. Last month there was a great deal on canned tuna. I ended up with 54 cans of tuna under my bed! We eat a lot of tuna so for my daughter and I this isn’t going to last but a few months. Not 100 cans, but it sure makes me smile 😊

[@danielleterry2331]

I started canning , buying 50 lbs of rice, beans, canned beans, I canned stew meat and pork loin( I didn’t care for the pork loin ) canned chicken in freezer when it was time to raise meat chics, growing my garden I learned to dehydrate and can , looked for frozen veggies and fruit going on sale and canned that up in jams, preserves, fuit. Before I realized I kinda went over board having fun . It’s just hubby and me, we took stock of everything we have and he said baby you need to turn it down we have way more than a years worth of food, I said ok and been fixing dinners from pantry once I get 100 empty jars I will see what we ate from pantry and can everything back up rotating is the key right? We have been only buying milk, his vitamins, coffee beans ( I am guilty I have been vacuum sealing those and hid them in the closet lol) I think my over stocking came from times when it was just me and my 2 girls I went hungry for days waiting on that paycheck to hit, never my girls as I would make sure they could eat but seeing we were getting low I would do my refrigerator casserole and that got the girls through till I got paid sometimes it was day 3 or 4, you can fill your belly with hot water with ketchup taste like crap but when you force yourself to drink down 2 cups your full. Once I got a better job I started stocking and the older I have gotten yeah I stock my pantry ,but that’s where it ends except when I see a tool hubby didn’t have, yeah he now has 4 large rolling tool cabinets full lol I don’t buy him anymore, although I did buy a log splitter, we have a wood stove now so I felt we needed it much to his anger but my paycheck I can do what I want and tonight we are enjoying a wonderful fire because we used that log splitter 😊

[@SuttonsDaze]

Sounds like you are doing amazing with your pantry!

[@deannakunz3257]

I started about 4-5 years ago….but only started canning in 2022. But I’m proud to know my family won’t starve as well as all the other incidentals needed for daily life. I will say this…I truly recommend getting Leisa’s Pantry Preparedness book! Really, get it! We all need guidance and direction to give us the pantry that gives us peace of mind.

[@SuttonsDaze]

It’s so nice to hear about your progress!

[@wvnanaskitchenandgarden]

My son in law is having a plate replacement in his ankle this Thursday, so out of the pantry I made both chicken (ugly) and beef enchiladas for them. He’s the main cook since he usually is the first one home in the evening. I plan on doing a lasagna tomorrow for them as well. All out of the pantry.

[@SuttonsDaze]

That's so thoughtful of you!

[@wvnanaskitchenandgarden]

@ just trying to make it a little easier for them.

[@CharleneWoods-e4d]

My goal this year is to can a lot more veggies. My special needs son eats my home canned applesauce and it took 3 years for him to go thru the entie stash, down to 12 quarts. I can it without sugar for him. Otherwise, i have corn, green beans, beets. That is pretty much it. This year, i focused on meats to FILL my shelves. So, i have my plan!

[@MaggieSchrock-q4h]

I live in a 500 sq ft apartment. My kitchen is 8 ft wide and one wall is a closet. Two feet is for the vacuum, broom, etc and the rest is all shelves for food storage. I have solo much room for my preps.

[@Jordan.M.-qb6ky]

I learned that some grocery stores keep your receipts online (assoc w phone number / reward program) it’s fun to go into app and see what you bought. Make an envelope and save the receipts.

[@Mrs.CreeksideMaples]

Such VALUABLE info… SO GLAD I’ve found you my new friend!!! ❤❤

[@SuttonsDaze]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@Bernadine_1111]

So much more than a bowl of oatmeal. Pumpkin or Zucchini Baked Oats, Overnight Oats, Oat Flour sheet pan Pancakes, Savory oats, Fruit crisp with a thick Oat & Nut layer..... I love oats.

[@amymorales4622]

I haven’t quite reached the stage of my life where I won’t buy green bananas, but I focus a lot less on bulk purchases for long term storage these days. Now I focus more on variety. Food fatigue is real! Having a lot of choices in seasonings and add-ins makes all the difference. Pioneer makes some great gluten free gravy packets. Yes, I know that gravy isn’t that hard to make, but sometimes it’s nice for it to be easy. Same with spice blends like lemon-pepper or Cajun or taco seasoning. Comfort food is super important in stressful times, so having hot cocoa packets and canned soups on hand is good. Recently, I purchased some raisin brown bread in cans and some dehydrated cream cheese powder so that my husband can have a substitute for his bagels, should we not be able to get them.

[@SuttonsDaze]

I hear ya! It's about that balance. Variety is key.

[@nancyduval4742]

It is really helpful to get the rest if the family on board with stocking a pantry. My husband is going along with me, as if it is 'just a phase', but really doesn't see the need. However, I continue to increase what I plant in the garden each year, find more places to create mini 'pantry spaces', and purchase more canning jars every month so I can fill them with nutritious food. Grateful for all of your tips.

[@SuttonsDaze]

You're doing great! Keep going!

[@jsbarto1]

I started canning using your videos as a guide in August 2019. After a trauma injury in October 2019 that put me in the hospital and rehab until mid-December 2019, I was able to use my canned "Ugly Chicken" and "Ugly Beef" and "Bean Medley" I had canned earlier, to make healthy, protein-rich meals that kept me fed and helped the wound on my lower left shin heal well. Ugly Chicken is still my go-to protein to can, and this video reminds me that I could can a few more pint jars now...besides putting more shelf-stable food on my shelf, canning warms up my apartment without running the heat pump!

[@SuttonsDaze]

We've been hanging out together a hot minute havent we......LOL

[@henrycooks1883]

I watched a lady make a pizza with boxed mac and cheese as the crust, it actually looked pretty good. I have to say I am really well stocked when I decide I want to make something out of the usual wheelhouse I always have what I need in the freezer/pantry.

[@TinaGale-e6r]

I hI'm not a big fan of melons myself. Both of my grandparents were farmers in South Dakota and they both had huge melon patches along with their regular garden. But, I have a friend that grows a variety of melons and most of them she runs through the dehydrated and they actually are very tasty that way. (in my opinion)

[@Votethepower]

My father and I easily go through about 10 to 12 pounds of rice a year. He looooves rice and wants to have it with every dinner. Thanks for the video and the great reminders to be more resourceful with our pantries.

[@maracusumano4820]

When I buy meat I portion it out. It cuts down on waste & helps put a little back. There's only 2 of us now so even the smallest roast is too much. Instead of cooking it and eating what we can till it goes bad I cut a chunk off & freeze it. Even if its too small for a full meal I can add to it later for beef cubes in gravy. Or get a big roast & turn it into 3 or 4 meals. Roast, cubes & burgers. same with chicken, if you only need 1 breast don't cook them both cause its 2 in a package unless you have a plan on how you're going to use it.

[@sherryankers5004]

I buy in bulk from a farm. We are able to get a much better quality of food at a great price. I break the food down into smaller packages, freeze, dehydrate, freeze dry, vacuum seal and now thanks to your channel - I am starting to can also. It's a different way of buying but it is saving us a lot of money overall and our food storage is slowly growing.

[@RhodaJayne]

I started stocking food and supplies in the fall of 2022. I did a little each month and would like to share a way that helped me. I started subscriptions from Walmart and Amazon for paper and plastic goods and batteries. I then set up subscriptions for canned goods based on things we would eat. I have wish lists for supplies on Amazon and try to catch lightning deals when possible. I save all my gallon water jugs and refill them and have water stored various places. I make regular dollar tree runs for items to stock up on also. I bought the grain mill from Leisa’s video and have been stocking up on wheat berries and grains now. Just do a little each month and you will be surprised at what you an accomplish.

[@CarmenRice-m2b]

I bought metal shelves through marketplace. It saved money and shelves work great.

[@31platinum]

Thanks for all your great advice, Leisa. One idea I'd suggest that I've started to do when I've done a batch of canning is to write how to process the contents ie, do I just heat it up, or do I need to have an extra recipe step, etc. I attach the note with an elastic band to one of the jars and then I'm ready to go without trying to remember where I got the original recipe or trying to hunt it down on KZbin or in my sub-standard filing system! This may not suit everyone but it suits my personality as I have ADD and struggle to be organised, it may help others similarly afflicted too. Even if you are super organised it is a really quick way to get dinner ready until you reach Grand Master level of knowing what to do with everything like Leisa!

[@mistycarter9809]

We live in a 1000 sq ft rental, I use one of the bedrooms for my pantry. I started with mentality of 1 for now 2 or 3 for later on the things I bought. It slowly started adding up.

[@regib422]

One thing that really helped in my house planning was separation by personal tastes. It's only me and my preteen son here, and our tastes couldn't be more different. We converted 2 closets and stocked them each for ourselves. Even divided the freezer. Whatever we like in common is split between. Really helped us to see what everybody's happy foods were and make sure no one got overlooked. Also with a growing boy its really helpful to see how much his appetite is increasing (a lot) to adjust accordingly. And it has helped with his picky phase as he's starting to nose into my side a bit to see what I have that is interesting. Except mushrooms, he still says he'd rather starve. Lol.

[@SuttonsDaze]

That is a great idea for dealing with picky eaters!

[@cathecavalle1016]

I think this is a brilliant idea ❤

[@iwanttobelieve5970]

I’m allergic to cinnamon and oats but I’m stocking up on as much as possible the things I can eat.

[@SuttonsDaze]

Perfect!

[@carmenroupp653]

Oat meal with jams of your choice. Food is a tool . Soup my favorite, ill lately. T' paper needed in stock with 12 yr old cat , who hates everything. Colds , flu , ugh . Yup hit all the buttons last year into this year. Can not wait till growing season to get here. Been a long , long winter . Need warm sun shine and walks in the woods - ok hobbles in the woods. Peace 😊 . Thank you Leisa , canuary 2025 and forjars .

[@wildrosetreasuresva1837]

Thanks a bunch Leisa! 😊

[@SuttonsDaze]

You’re welcome!

[@hairtiecoocoo]

I put a comfy chair in my prepper room and routinely sit for a spell and look for holes in my inventory. It also gives me inspiration to cook something maybe I hadn't thought about recently. I also have a special rack on wheels where I put items I need to use next as they are more past the best by date than others. So I look at that area first to see what I can use up.

[@SuttonsDaze]

You are so smart to use a special rack for items you need to use up first.

[@carolverbeerst2348]

I have found that I really need snacks. So now I stock popcorn, raisins, nuts, and peanut butter. Homemade cookies are always a treat. Cico for a chocolate coffee is so satisfying. There are ways. Thank you aleisa for helping me to think about my food. Not just reach for the easiest thing.

[@4themotherload]

Your Tips and Ticks are 💯 Don't worry about what other people's pantry's look like, focus on your own. I consider myself a foodie and making my own cream of mushroom soup from scratch is amazing but on a Tuesday night if I need that ingredient (because we keep it , because we like it) I am pulling a can off the shelf to make my life easier and I don't feel bad about stalking it. Do I can my own stock yes, but I also keep certain store bought stocks in my pantry as-well. Build what you want and what you need and Lesia's tips will get you to the pantry of your dreams 🥂

[@SuttonsDaze]

I agree, building a pantry for your own needs is essential!

[@SusanHakola]

Excellent video, Leisa!

[@Nita-b1s]

We have now had snow twice here in Atlanta. We can’t drive on snow and ice. I don’t need to get out because I’m prepared, thank goodness.

[@karenprice7357]

I learned to can from my mom. In the 1980's I started to can my own. I thought Canning was a lost art. Until I started watch KZbin. Wow!... So many recipes I would do that my husband thought that he was next. :o

[@carmenroupp653]

Thank you for this refresher coarse for me . 😆 life has sucked for a 8 months now and counting. Moved 3 timed in less then 8 month and counting , hubby hospital , kitties , more then a few. My Belongings in fla. Tried very tried. Life goes on. Thank you Leisa, canuray, and forjars .

[@SuttonsDaze]

Life is a roller coaster, keep your chin up!

[@dahnerodriguez]

Thank you for this fabulous video. Getting everything ready to hopefully start canning this weekend. Can I just put uncooked rice in my half gallon jars? Thanks 💜

[@SuttonsDaze]

Yes you can!

[@shirleygeer5376]

Hey Leisa, I started my stock up going to different food drops through out my city. I would get way more produce than I could eat before it went bad. So I learned to preserve what I could and gave the rest to my neihgbors. There are apps that people can get that will tell you where and when there are food drops in your area. You just put in your zip code. It is also a good place to stock up on legumes, rice, pasta and oatmeal. Would like to also add do not think you have to be out of work or homeless. If you are struggling to feed yourself and or your family it is for you too.

[@shirleygeer5376]

P.s. didn't necessarily mean you personally for that last part🙂

[@SuttonsDaze]

I'm so glad you shared this great information!

[@louanngraham185]

If you have any type of over the counter benefits, USE them. I stocked up on all vitamins, supplements, body washes, shampoos for a year! Im so happy that i wont run out for a year. I have friends that dont even bother with the otc benefits, they also dont have a pantry.

[@SuttonsDaze]

You are so smart to take advantage of those benefits!

[@mojoflyingsolo639]

Love me some oat meal with bacon bits mixed in. That is the only way my mother could get us to eat oat meal. Thank You Mom. lol

[@SuttonsDaze]

Oatmeal and bacon bits, classic!

[@robertfoster3114]

Love your channel! 🙏

[@SuttonsDaze]

I appreciate that!

[@aprilmcleish8319]

I don't get any $ for saying this, just trying to help others, but I found that investing in a FoodSaver has helped me loads with not wasting food. Reusable bags I keep for the fridge veggies. I use the airtight bags to divide and keep my dry, bulk goods in manageable portions, so there's less throw away.

[@Dian-mt1hy]

Tip: One of that things about canning is that it saves time. You spend almost the same amount of time to make a large pot of soup, stew, etc as a serving for two. I can the extras and have easy meals in my pantry. Open. Heat. Serve.

[@MissouriPrepper64052]

My major tip is if you use it and consume it replace it if you eat one can replace it with too and if you eat two cans, replace it with three! Same thing with anything else that you eat in store

[@virginiabirkett4980]

Right now I'm taking advantage of the freezing temperatures and using outside for my cooler/freezer. Im able to freeze gel packs for a cooler and freeze leftovers. 😅

[@SuttonsDaze]

That is such a great idea for using your outdoor space!

[@msblackwolf67]

I just started this year. Thank you for sharing how to do this.

[@SuttonsDaze]

You are welcome!

[@SCMTNGALFOREVER]

I dont panic. Buy a little at a time. I stock up here and there. The hurricane coming thru SC , I got a notepad to qrite down what else to do to stock up more. We could go 30 days without a grocery store. Bigger garden this year to preserve more food

[@SuttonsDaze]

Sounds like you’ve got a great plan in place!

[@ursamajor1936]

Just started watching and am happy to learn. Building up extra in the pantry is something I haven't figured out yet. Thanks a bunch. I enjoy all that you teach but dont get time to watch every day. Suffering in this icebox we call Wisconsin. 😊

[@SuttonsDaze]

I am so glad you are enjoying the channel!

[@denisewilson8367]

To build your pantry: What do you like to eat? For breakfast? For lunch? For supper? Make your lists. Now go down your lists and figure out what you need to buy to make that meal. When you grocery shop that week buy enough for two meals and that gives you one to eat and one to start your pantry with. If you can afford it, always buy enough for two meals or more. Do you use rice, beans, instant potatoes, powdered milk, pancake/biscuit mixes? Buy the biggest box and put some away in canning jars of 1/2 gallon or gallon jars to help build up your pantry. Just do it as you can afford it. Soon, your pantry will need more room. Good luck.

[@Jordan.M.-qb6ky]

I think in 12 months. Of If I want green beans 2 times a month that means X cans. I get 12 cake mixes. Brownies. 24 pasta sauce - that’s once a month for a year. I need 12 peas and carrots to do fried rice once a month. I buy 12 instant potatoes, stuffing, gratin potatoes etc when on super clearance.

[@denisewilson8367]

@Jordan.M.-qb6ky that's a good way if you have bigger dollars to spend. Usually when starting out. You either don't have extra dollars or don't want to buy that much bcuz you might want to only buy a little extra at a time.

[@Jordan.M.-qb6ky]

@ yes. But if green beans are on sale 39 cents a can I’d buy 12. I started w the $5 a week stock up plan. I set aside $5 a week solely for purpose of stocking. I’d buy only sale stuff. 5 pastas. A few pounds rice. Stuffing post thanksgiving on clearance. I highly recommend the $5 method to build it up. In one month, that $20 really can accumulate. Granted, not everyone has that $20. I appreciate that. Believe me I do.

[@freedombydesignwithstephanie]

Just start! Don't procrastinate! Your tips are all so good! You are right it is fun and very rewarding! I just finished dehydrating a lot of my garden garlic. It was going soft for some reason! Now I have beautiful garlic powder in vacuum sealed jars 😊