Essential Fall Ingredients

Fall is here, and that means it’s time to warm up the kitchen with cozy, hearty meals! If you’re anything like me, the changing leaves and cooler temperatures bring a craving for all things comforting and nourishing. Whether you’re making a pot of stew, baking pumpkin bread, or roasting root vegetables, having the right ingredients on hand makes all the difference. Here are some of my must-have plant-based items for fall cooking to help you create delicious, seasonal meals with ease.

1. Plant-Based Butters

Let’s be real—plant-based butter is a staple in any kitchen, but during fall, it becomes even more essential for baking, roasting, and sautéing. These are my go-to brands:

• Miyoko’s Creamery European Style Cultured Vegan Butter – Made from cashews and coconut oil, this butter has a creamy texture that’s perfect for baking and spreading. It’s rich and slightly tangy, making it a fantastic choice for flaky pie crusts or drizzling over roasted squash. Available at Whole Foods, Sprouts, or online at Thrive Market.
• Earth Balance Original Buttery Spread – Earth Balance is my all-purpose butter substitute. It works well for sautéing fall veggies like Brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes, and is a great addition to cornbread or vegan biscuits. You can find it at most grocery stores, including Kroger, Target, and Harris Teeter.

2. Hearty Grains and Legumes

Fall meals often call for hearty grains and legumes that bring comfort and substance. These ingredients are not only filling but packed with nutrients:

• Farro – Farro is an ancient grain that’s perfect for salads, soups, or grain bowls. Its nutty flavor pairs beautifully with roasted fall vegetables like butternut squash or carrots. Bob’s Red Mill makes a great farro that’s available at most natural food stores or on Amazon.
• Lentils – Whether you’re making a comforting lentil stew or adding them to a plant-based shepherd’s pie, lentils are a fall must-have. Brown and green lentils hold up well in soups and stews, while red lentils break down for creamier dishes. Grab a bag at any local grocery store or order organic ones from Thrive Market.

3. Seasonal Vegetables

What’s fall cooking without seasonal produce? Stock your fridge with these staples for the ultimate autumn meals:

• Butternut Squash – Roast it, puree it into a soup, or add it to grain bowls. Butternut squash is a fall classic.
• Sweet Potatoes – Bake them whole or dice and roast them. They’re perfect for adding to salads, tacos, or even making sweet potato pie.
• Brussels Sprouts – Roast with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or toss them into a warm salad with farro or quinoa.

4. Herbs and Spices

Fall cooking calls for warming herbs and spices to elevate your dishes with cozy, comforting flavors:

• Sage and Thyme – These are the ultimate herbs for fall. Sage brings an earthy flavor that’s great in stuffing, and thyme is essential for soups and roasted vegetables. Fresh is always best, but dried versions work well too.
• Cinnamon, Nutmeg, and Cloves – These spices are essential for all your fall baking needs. From pumpkin bread to spiced oatmeal, they add that sweet warmth we all crave this time of year.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice – Save yourself the trouble of mixing these spices individually by grabbing a jar of pumpkin pie spice. It’s perfect for baked goods, smoothies, and even coffee! Look for McCormick or Trader Joe’s versions.

5. Flavorful Broths

A good broth is the base for so many fall recipes, from soups to stews to risotto. Here are my favorite plant-based broths:

• Pacific Foods Organic Vegetable Broth – This broth has a rich, savory flavor that adds depth to any soup or stew. You can find it at most grocery stores, including Whole Foods, Harris Teeter, and Target.
• Better Than Bouillon Vegetable Base – This concentrated paste can be mixed with water to create a quick broth or used as a flavor enhancer in sauces and gravies. Available at Walmart, Kroger, or Amazon.

6. Spice Blends

Keep things simple with these all-in-one spice blends that are perfect for fall:

• Trader Joe’s Everything But the Leftovers – This spice blend tastes like Thanksgiving in a jar. Sprinkle it on roasted veggies or use it to season your tofu. Available exclusively at Trader Joe’s during the fall season.
• Simply Organic Tuscan Herb Seasoning – Perfect for hearty soups, pasta dishes, and roasted vegetables, this blend of basil, oregano, and rosemary brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your fall meals. Available at most health food stores or online at Simply Organic’s website.

7. Nutritional Yeast

This cheesy, nutty flavor bomb is perfect for adding depth to soups, sauces, and even popcorn. I always keep nutritional yeast on hand for my fall cooking. Brands like Anthony’s and Bob’s Red Mill offer great options and can be found at most grocery stores or online at Amazon.

With these plant-based essentials stocked in your pantry, fridge, and spice cabinet, you’ll be ready to whip up cozy, hearty fall meals that will keep you and your family satisfied. From comforting soups to rich baked goods, these staples will help you create delicious plant-based dishes all season long.

Happy fall cooking—and don’t forget to enjoy a kitchen dance party while you’re at it!