In Case of Quarantine: Cook the Pantry

by Robin Robertson on March 10, 2020

With a possible pandemic on the horizon, I’ve stocked up on toilet paper and hand sanitizer — just in case. But I’ve also stocked up on enough food supplies to get us through the next couple of months, in case of quarantine.

I’ve been using the tips and recipes in my book, Cook the Pantry, to dictate my grocery list and keep my pantry full if the situation worsens. The quick and easy recipes in Cook the Pantry use mostly items from your pantry and freezer (along with some optional fresh produce, if you have it on hand).

One of my favorite recipes from the book is the Artichoke Muffaleta Po Boys. It’s the best of two popular New Orleans culinary icons joining forces to create the ultimate sandwich made with artichokes and a piquant olive relish. Here’s the recipe:

Artichoke Muffaleta Po’ Boys

Makes 2 servings

3 scallions, chopped
1 garlic clove, crushed
1/3 cup pickled vegetables, well-drained
1/3 cup pimiento-stuffed green olives, well-drained
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 (14-ounce) can artichoke hearts, well-drained and halved
1/2 teaspoon Cajun spice blend
3 tablespoons Creole mustard
3 tablespoons vegan mayonnaise
2 small sub rolls
1 cup shredded lettuce
1 large tomato, thinly sliced
Pickled sliced jalapeños
Tabasco or other hot sauce, to serve

1. In a food processor, combine the scallion and garlic and process until finely minced. Add the pickled vegetables, olives, and pulse to make a relish. Set aside.

2. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the artichoke hearts, season with the spice blend, and cook until nicely browned, about 5 minutes per side.

3. To assemble the sandwiches, spread the mayonnaise and mustard on the inside top and bottom of the bread. Spread the lettuce onto the bottom of each sandwich, followed by tomato slices. Top with the relish mixture, a few slices of jalapeños, and the artichokes. Serve at once with Tabasco.

In case you don’t already own Cook the Pantry, below is a list of the 100 recipes in the book. Check it out — you don’t need to be quarantined to enjoy these easy and delicious recipes.

Cook the Pantry: Vegan Pantry-to-Plate Recipes in 20 minutes or Less

Soup, Stew, Chili