Perusing People's Pantries

One of the websites I have to be careful with is The Perfect Pantry. As soon as I start perusing the Other People's Pantries column, I'm a goner -- sifting through the many pantries, gathering ideas, and sometimes just drooling with jealousy. Oh, the lucky ones who have the space to indulge in every foodie whim!

There's just something about looking through someone's shelves (if out in the open or by invite, of course) that says so much. Any time I find myself waiting at a friend's place, I'll scour their books and CDs, and would probably check out their pantry too, if it was out in the open. It's part curiosity and part organizational fiendishness. Shelves of goodies share secrets that sound bland in conversation. ("So, I just bought a new garlic powder...") They offer tips for your own organization, and camaraderie over similar products and styles. It's just plain revealing -- the unmentionables drawer of the foodie world.

As for my own organization, I must admit that much of it comes from a terrible meal moth infestation that lasted over a year. After losing all of my baking goods, dozens of teas, and most of my pantry, I had to invest in a myriad of containers and make use of all the jars I never recycled. Merge that with a space much too small for me, and my "pantry" is a collection of spots strewn not only through my kitchen, but also my closet -- beer fridge, booze, onions, and taters nestled right next to my fancy dresses and wrapping paper.

In the interest of sharing, you can check out everything but the closet in the gallery below. And please, feed my pantry curiosity and share your own as well!