12 Canned Foods Chefs Always Keep on Hand

For both busy home cooks and professional chefs, canned foods are a pantry staple. With the convenience of ready-to-use ingredients and the benefit of a longer shelf life, canned foods allow for creative, tasty meals even when fresh produce is scarce. But what canned foods do chefs always have on hand, and why?

This list is based on real-world culinary trends, expert insights from chefs, and data from food industry surveys. We’re about to reveal the top 12 canned foods that professional chefs always keep within reach, and we’ll discuss why these items are so valuable in the kitchen. Expect to discover a wealth of ideas for your next grocery shopping list.

1. Canned Tomatoes

Canned tomatoes are a versatile ingredient in a chef’s kitchen. They are picked at their ripest and then canned, making them a great alternative to fresh tomatoes, especially during off-season. They are often used in sauces, stews, and soups. Despite their simplicity, many people overlook canned tomatoes, opting for fresh ones instead.

Now, as people are cooking more at home and looking for ways to reduce food waste, canned tomatoes are seeing a resurgence in popularity. They offer a practical, cost-effective solution for adding flavor and nutrition to dishes. Leading chefs, like James Beard Award-Winner Michael Solomonov, even consider them a pantry must-have.

2. Chickpeas

Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are a nutritious, protein-packed legume. They can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads and stews to hummus and falafel. While dried chickpeas require soaking and cooking, canned chickpeas are ready to use, making them a time-saving alternative.

As plant-based diets gain popularity, chickpeas have emerged as a go-to ingredient for their versatility and nutritional benefits. According to a report by the Eat This, Not That!, chickpeas are expected to be one of the most popular foods of the year, making them a staple in every chef’s pantry.

3. Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is a creamy, rich ingredient often used in Asian and tropical cuisines. It’s a key component in dishes like curry, soup, and dessert. Some people might overlook coconut milk due to its high fat content, but it’s that richness that makes it so valuable in cooking.

Nowadays, with the rise of vegan and dairy-free diets, coconut milk is being recognized for its versatility and health benefits. In a recent Healthline article, nutritionists highlighted coconut milk as a great source of several vitamins and minerals, making it a popular choice among chefs.

4. Canned Fish

Canned fish, including tuna, salmon, and sardines, is a quick and easy source of protein. It has a long shelf life and doesn’t require cooking, making it a great option for quick meals. Some people might avoid canned fish due to misconceptions about its quality compared to fresh fish.

The recent trend of cooking at home has prompted many to rediscover the value of canned fish. It’s a convenient, nutritious, and sustainable choice, as per a report by Time Magazine. Leading chefs are also using canned fish creatively in their dishes.

5. Black Beans

Black beans are a nutritious and versatile ingredient. They can be used in a variety of dishes, including soups, salads, and tacos. While dried beans require soaking and cooking, canned black beans are ready to use, making them a time-saving alternative.

As more people embrace plant-based diets and look for protein-rich alternatives to meat, black beans are gaining popularity. According to a report by the Eat This, Not That!, black beans are expected to become increasingly popular in the coming year, making them a staple in every chef’s pantry.

6. Canned Corn

Canned corn is a convenient and versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads and salsas to soups and casseroles. It maintains its sweet flavor and crisp texture, making it a great alternative to fresh corn, especially during off-season.

With the trend of home cooking and meal prepping, canned corn is becoming increasingly popular. Its long shelf life and versatility make it a practical ingredient, and according to Cooking Light, it can be used in a multitude of creative ways to add color and sweetness to your meals.

7. Canned Pumpkin

Canned pumpkin is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to pies and breads. It’s packed with nutrients like fiber, vitamin A, and antioxidants. Many people overlook canned pumpkin, opting for fresh pumpkin instead.

Today, as people are looking for easy and nutritious meal options, canned pumpkin is gaining popularity. It’s a convenient and healthy choice, and according to a Healthline article, it’s associated with several health benefits, making it a staple in every chef’s pantry.

8. Canned Green Chiles

Canned green chiles are a convenient and versatile ingredient that can add a spicy kick to your dishes. They can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and sauces to casseroles and dips. Despite their versatility, many people overlook canned green chiles, opting for fresh chiles instead.

The recent trend of cooking at home and exploring international cuisines has led to an increase in the popularity of canned green chiles. They offer a quick and easy way to add flavor to your dishes, and according to Bon Appétit, they’re a pantry staple for many chefs.

9. Canned Olives

Canned olives are a versatile ingredient that can add a salty, savory flavor to your dishes. They can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads and pastas to sauces and pizzas. Despite their versatility, many people overlook canned olives, opting for fresh olives instead.

Today, as people are looking for quick and easy meal options, canned olives are gaining popularity. They offer a convenient way to add flavor to your dishes, and according to a Olive Central article, they’re a pantry staple for many chefs.

10. Canned Artichoke Hearts

Canned artichoke hearts are a convenient and versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads and pastas to dips and pizzas. Many people overlook canned artichoke hearts, opting for fresh artichokes instead, which can be time-consuming to prepare.

Today, as people are looking for quick and easy meal options, canned artichoke hearts are gaining popularity. They offer a convenient way to add flavor and nutrition to your dishes, and according to a Serious Eats article, they’re a pantry staple for many chefs.