In our busy and hectic lives, it is important to save time and energy where we can. To do this, preparation is essential. Try planning out a menu for the whole week and make a shopping list accordingly.

Stock your pantry

• The following spices are a must for every pantry: Cumin seeds, hing, coriander, turmeric, whole red pepper, crushed red peppers, paprika, black pepper, salt, black salt, amchoor, bay leaves, cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, garam masala, black mustard seeds, and fennel seeds.
• Dry goods: whole-wheat flour or atta, besan, sooji, all-purpose flour, basmati rice, moong dal, toor dal, kidney beans, and chickpeas.
• Often, chopping vegetables is the most time-consuming part of preparing meals. To save time, you can keep frozen vegetables of your liking on hand, or cut some fresh vegetables in advance, place in a plastic bag and freeze or refrigerate them. I like to keep canned items such as kidney beans, chickpeas and chopped tomatoes in my pantry.