What kitchens would be complete without the essentials? The most important aspect of cooking has the Kitchen ingredients, and the next most vital ingredient you’ll need is these five things.

1. Milk and White Sugar

Sugar is essential for more than just sweetening coffee and baking treats- it’s also a valuable ingredient in general cooking and can be used to add flavor and moisture, so keep some close at hand. Milk is another great staple: it may not give you much of a buzz, but it’s got your black tea covered or can transform an average dish into something that tastes delicious.

2. Salt & Pepper

Salt and pepper are such common condiments they’re easy to forget about. If you’re cooking away from home, though, they’re always available – and they’re almost always cheap! These two work just about anywhere, too. If ever something tastes bland, give it a generous sprinkle of one or both to liven things up.

3. Butter

Butter is, of course, the secret behind delicious baked goods. It’s also great for general savory cooking and can be used for pan frying if you don’t have oil on hand. Keep butter around to make your dishes tasty and prevent them from sticking to pans.

4. Oil

Oil is another indispensable kitchen item that can be used in everything from delicate pastries (for flakiness), to frying (so foods don’t stick). It’s even great as an ingredient by itself – try drizzling roasted vegetables with oil, salt, and pepper for a tasty side dish.

5. Honey

Honey is an excellent all-purpose sweetener, but it’s also got some uses outside the kitchen. Use honey to mask odors in your home, or try it as a natural face wash! Being versatile means you’re more likely to keep it around the kitchen – so grab a jar when you shop.

In conclusion, these five things should be kept in your kitchen so you can cook and bake.