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Other countries have already started their second lockdowns, which is leading many people to wonder if the United States is headed to another one as well.
With that in mind, it’s a good idea to start stocking up on everyday pantry essentials to make sure you’ll be prepared for whatever happens.
One of the best pantry staples to buy now is rice.
Rice is a versatile food that you can add to almost any meal to make it more filling. Brown rice (and other whole grains) in particular can be a healthy addition to your diet; likewise, it makes sense to start stocking up now.
According to the New York Post, "Don’t skip the whole grains, dried legumes and other dehydrated foods, including dried milk. They may require a few more steps to prepare, but their yearslong (in some cases 10 or more) shelf life and low cost make them a staple of domesticity. Heller suggests loading up on dried beans, white and brown rice, quinoa, couscous, polenta and, of course, pasta."
Although it might not seem urgent to stock your pantry, it is a good idea to start now.
Moneycrashers explains, "Many of these foods will likely be hard to find if a second wave hits, so it’s smart to start stocking up on them now as they become available. Do what you can to start building a long-term food pantry for your family and stock up on what you need."
Besides having brown rice as a side, you can also make it the focal point of your meal with some creative recipes.
Try out this homemade Spanish rice recipe or this southwest rice salad recipe for a more flavorful dish.
With this in mind, if you are concerned about a second lockdown and want to start preparing now, it's a good idea to start by stocking up your pantry with some food essentials that won't go bad. Plus, buying now means you won't have to worry if they start selling out later.
