In my kitchen, I've got a stash of ingredients that are like my kitchen superheroes. They're the everyday essentials that can turn ordinary meals into something special. With these trusty staples on hand, it's easy to add a pop of flavor or a twist to your dishes.

In my kitchen cupboard I always have:

• lemon or lime: For that tangy zing to liven up any dish.
• garlic: It brings a combination of pungent, aromatic, and slightly sweet notes to your food
• red onions: They're like the sweet and colorful backbone of many meals.
• olive oil: A kitchen workhorse that adds a Mediterranean touch to everything.
• fresh or dry herbs: From thyme and rosemary to coriander and basil, these fresh or dried herbs are kitchen game-changers.
• spices: cumin, curry, coriander, cardamom, cinnamon, smoked paprika, za’atar, sumac, black pepper etc. They can definitely change your dish.
• chili paste or sauce, crushed red pepper flakes: If you like a bit of heat, these are your friends.
• soy sauce: Adds a unique and savory umami flavor to dishes
• some seeds: Whether it's sesame or pumpkin seeds, they add that special crunch.
• some canned food: Tomatoes, chickpeas, and tuna – these pantry saviors are always ready to save the day and time.

Having these ingredients in your kitchen is like having a trusty toolkit at your disposal. They can enhance an ordinary meal, make it more exciting, and bring out the flavors.