Dry staples form the foundation of the galley. They’re light, calorie-dense, and endlessly adaptable; perfect for calm weather cooking or quick meals under sail. They’re also some of the easiest items to buy in bulk, store efficiently, and rotate without waste.
Grains & Starches
- White Rice (Long- & Short-Grain): Quick energy, cooks evenly, pairs with anything.
- Brown Rice: More fiber; vacuum-seal to extend shelf life.
- Couscous, Bulgur, and Quinoa: Fast-cooking, great for salads or warm sides.
- Pasta: Stock varied shapes for versatility (spaghetti, penne, elbows, shells).
- Instant Rice / Minute Rice: Perfect for no-fuss meals or night watches.
- Crackers, Flatbreads, & Crispbreads: Long-lasting lunch bases.
- Tortillas: Excellent for wraps and breakfast burritos; store flat and rotate weekly.
- Instant Mashed Potatoes: Great thickener or comfort food standby.
Baking Essentials
- All-Purpose Flour: Use for breads, sauces, and coatings; buy unbleached when possible.
- Whole Wheat Flour: Heavier but adds nutrition; mix 50/50 with all-purpose for bread.
- Cornmeal or Polenta: Great for cornbread, breading fish, or porridge.
- Yeast (Instant & Active Dry): Keep sealed in a small jar in the fridge or vacuum pack.
- Baking Powder & Baking Soda: Store airtight; humidity ruins potency quickly.
- Sugar: White, brown, and powdered for baking and drinks.
- Salt & Sea Salt Flakes: Both for cooking and finishing meals.
- Oil Sprays or Shortening: Use in baking or for greasing pans when low on butter..
Storage Best Practices
- Use airtight containers (square preferred for space efficiency) like OXO Pop or Lock & Lock.
- Label everything with contents, cook time, and expiry date.
- Add bay leaves or oxygen absorbers to grains and beans to deter pests.
- Keep heavier goods low and close to the centerline for better weight balance.
- Store flour, sugar, and oats in separate bins to prevent cross-contamination or moisture issues.
Eco-Friendly & Minimal Waste Tips
- Buy bulk staples at local co-ops or markets and refill existing containers.
- Store dry goods in stainless steel or glass jars with silicone seals (if motion-safe).
- Avoid single-use bags — reusable food-grade silicone or heavy-duty pouches are safer and greener.
Climate Variations
- Tropical Climates: Choose faster-cooking grains (couscous, red lentils) to save fuel; add desiccant packets to bins.
- Cold or Northern Waters: Carry hearty grains (barley, oats, brown rice) for warmth and sustained energy.
- Dry or Arid Regions: Double-seal flours and sugars to prevent drying out and insect contamination.
Jen's Favorites:
- Bob’s Red Mill Lentils & Steel-Cut Oats — excellent shelf life and quality.
- King Arthur All-Purpose Flour — unbleached and consistent for baking aboard.
- Lotus Foods Rice Ramen — cooks fast, minimal fuel use.
- Annie’s Organic Mac & Cheese Cups — easy comfort food for rough days.
- Trader Joe’s 10-Minute Barley — great for soups and salads.