Build your own heirloom pantry, one wholesome ingredient at a time

New year, new trends and newer ways of turning the same old food into a novel gourmet classic. However, this time instead of diving head first into bottles of fermented drinks and how to make plant-based food tastier, we are stopping to take a moment and look back at history.

In the world of food, it comes as no surprise that innovation often takes center stage. A show of immaculate creativity, often based on the historical lore of certain other recipes or ingredients. There’s a quiet, meaningful change in lifestyle that is reshaping how we eat. Amid this storytelling transcending each ingredient, chop, and dish, the use of heirloom ingredients is a movement rooted in history, sustainability and the quest for authentic flavours. With roots that stretch back generations, these gems bring authenticity, flavour, and history to the kitchen, whether it’s just a bowl of rice, a sprig of herb, or a sprinkle of spice.

What Exactly Are Heirloom Ingredients?

At their core, heirloom ingredients are foods that have been cultivated in a specific region for generations—often more than two! They haven’t been subjected to genetic modification or hybridisation, which makes them a rare treasure in today’s agricultural landscape. Think of them as the culinary equivalent of vintage fashion: unique, full of character, and guaranteed to stand out.

Kailash Karel, head of Heirloom Essentials at Eleved, explains, “These foods are deeply tied to a region's cultural and agricultural history. For example, heirloom varieties of rice, pulses, and even spices have been passed down from one generation of farmers to the next, preserving not only the flavour but also the biodiversity of the land.”

Building Your Heirloom Pantry

“With recent developments in food recipes, we are essentially losing the original taste of food. We believe that the authentic flavour of food comes out best when heirloom ingredients are used in cooking. Chefs are increasingly recognising this fact and are requesting heirloom ingredients to achieve the authentic taste in the new recipes they develop,” says Karel. Building your heirloom pantry entails an amalgamation of history, culture, and, of course, flavour. And if you do plan on setting up your own heirloom pantry, then let’s start at the very beginning. Grains like wheat and rice constitute a large part of our diet. “These days, health and nutrition experts are leaning towards consuming locally grown food ingredients, as these are considered healthier and more fitness-friendly. We are witnessing a growing shift towards cultivating and consuming heirloom food varieties due to their multiple benefits, such as superior nutrition and taste,” added Karel, explaining how heirloom varieties of these ingredients offer a depth of flavour and nutrition that’s hard to beat. 

Pulses and legumes are another must-have in your heirloom pantry. “In a typical diet, staples like pulses and beans constitute a major portion of our diet,” Karel emphasises. These should be the primary choices when opting for heirloom variants. From heirloom chickpeas to lentils and kidney beans, try a comforting dal or a hearty chickpea stew, and you’ll immediately taste the difference.

Another addition every heirloom pantry must include, as Kailash Karel mentions, are heirloom spices. One should also include heirloom spices and herbs like pepper, cumin, cardamom, and turmeric to add a layer of complexity to any dish. Heirloom turmeric, for instance, offers a deeper, more vibrant colour and an earthy flavour that you won't find in its more commercial counterparts. But how do you spot the difference between heirloom spices and mass produced spices? Karel explains, “When sourcing heirloom items, one should carefully verify with suppliers to ensure the products are neither hybrid nor genetically modified (GMO). It is worth noting that many Indian farmers today use hybrid seed varieties for higher yields or other benefits offered by these modern strains.”

Additionally, don't forget the importance of quality oils and ghee. Heirloom oils, like cold-pressed mustard oil or traditional ghee, are more than just fat—they’re the base of a flavourful dish. These oils are typically less processed and preserve more of their natural flavour, making them perfect for cooking or drizzling over a finished dish. 

Where to Find Heirloom Ingredients?

So, how do you go about sourcing these treasures? Fortunately, there’s been a rise in the availability of heirloom products in both local markets and online. According to Kailash, “Working directly with small farming collectives is key to sourcing heirloom ingredients while ensuring sustainability. When sourcing, be sure to ask questions about the ingredients’ origins—are they truly native to the region? Have they been passed down through generations? The more you know, the better!”

Why Heirloom Ingredients Matter

Aside from their rich flavours, heirloom ingredients are also an eco-friendly choice. These ingredients are often grown with minimal industrial inputs, which means they’re better for the soil, the environment, and your health. Plus, by supporting small farmer communities and preserving biodiversity, you’re contributing to a more sustainable and mindful food system.

Cooking with Heirloom Ingredients

The beauty of heirloom ingredients lies in their versatility. Start small—swap your regular rice for an heirloom variety, or use heirloom lentils in your next stew. These ingredients don’t need much to shine—sometimes, just a touch of heat and a few simple seasonings are all it takes to let them reveal their full potential.

For those looking to expand their repertoire, try experimenting with traditional recipes from the regions where these ingredients have been grown. Setting up your own heirloom pantry is one way to celebrate our tradition, culture, and, most importantly, flavour. In the next five years, this lifestyle is set to grow, fueled by a rising demand for nutrient-dense, environmentally mindful choices. For those looking to join the movement, Eleved’s retail corner boasts a coveted list of essentials for your pantry. So, the next time you’re stocking up, consider adding a few of these treasures to your shelf. After all, food is about more than just sustenance—it’s a way to connect with the past and nourish the present.

Lead image: Eleved

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