If you are going to have an adventure in home cooking, you need to have a well-stocked pantry. This will empower you to be creative in the kitchen and greatly increase your social capital. The more comfortable you become with using the different ingredients the more you may find you are coming up with your own delicious dishes!
Here is a basic list to ensure your cupboards are full and happy and the loved ones around your table are well-fed.
Grains
Basmati rice
Long grain white rice
Couscous
Oats
Flours
All-purpose baking flour (I like King Arthur’s)
Self-rising flour (for scones!)
Whole wheat flour
Corn meal
Baking supplies
Baking powder
Baking soda
Cornstartch
Cream of Tartar
Sea salt
Vanilla
Cocoa powder
Sugars
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar (light and dark)
Maple syrup
Molasses
Honey
Corn syrup
Oils
Extra-virgin olive oil (check the label that the olives are all from one country, ensures better quality)
Vegetable or canola oil
Cooking spray
Vinegars
Cider vinegar
Balsamic vinegar
Red wine vinegar
Rice vinegar
Pastas
Spaghetti (whole wheat, spinach)
Penne
Angel hair
Farfelle
Dried fruits and nuts
Raisins
Currants
Prunes
Cranberries
Apricots
Peanut butter
Slivered almonds
Cashews
Pine nuts
Soy nuts
Walnuts
Beans (dried or canned)
Black beans
Navy beans
Kidney beans
Lentils
Sauces
Soy sauce
Worcestershire Sauce
Teriyaki
Thai curry paste
Seasonings
All spice
Basil
Black pepper
Cinnamon
Curry powder
Dill
Garam masala (Indian spice)
Garlic
Marjoram
Mustard
Nutmeg
Oregano
Paprika
Parsley
Pumpkin pie spice
Red pepper flakes
Rosemary
Sage
Powdered bullion, chicken and beef
Thyme
Kitchen Report 
My favorite Indian spice is garam masala. I add it to all my curry dishes whether it’s called for or not. Available at Indian spice markets.
Oo! Good point, Julia. I’ll add it to the list.