"odd food choices" news and stories

Last night I was sitting around with some friends, having just finished a terrific dinner, when we stumbled upon the subject of our quirky pantry staples. Those things that you always have to have on hand that are a little out of the ordinary, in case you have a particular craving that must be sated. My friend Fran and her husband always have soba noodles in their cupboards. My parents always have honey toasted wheat germ in the fridge. I don't feel comfortable without a bottle of fish sauce, a vast backup supply of pepper corns and at least three different kinds of mustard.

What are those things that you need to have in your kitchen in order to feel comfortable and well-stocked?