November 28, 2010: What's in YOUR pantry?

I woke up at 5:20 a.m. to deal with a dog-related issue and, by the time I was done, it was almost six.  Rather than head back to bed, I elected to head downstairs and tackle that long overdue pantry cleaning.  I was amazed at some of the interest/weird/downright mysterious items I discovered including two packages of four year past their due date TimTams, an economy size tin of duck confit, a jar of nutella so old it had started to sport brown (albeit delicious-looking) moss, and the following items…

 

This is one of those items that only sees significant sales during a looming apocalypse when the panicked masses descend on their local supermarkets desperate for anything.  Yes, even hearts of palm.





I had no idea dried pasta had an expiration date. In this case = early 1999.  I was reluctant to throw it out given it had practically achieved family heirloom status.





File this one under "awesome": a jar of chestnut puree. Perfect for topping a bowl of ice cream, or a bowl of chestnut puree.





It's like some mystery goodie bags they give out at Chinese birthday parties. Can't read the label but my guess is it aint chocolate.





Another mystery something from Asian supermarket. I'm going to say wasabi-covered marbles, but it could actually be green tea.





Mix one part Jagermeister, one part rum, and one part squid juice and you've got yourself a Rusty Sailor. And, probably, vomit on your carpet.





The label ways "sweet, fruity and festive" but it was none of the aforementioned.  In fact, it was nowhere near as good as it smelled.  Still, far tastier than the hearts of palm.

Back in the office tomorrow to watch a couple of mixes, a visit to the neurologist (for Jelly, not me) on Tuesday, dentist on Wednesday, and then wrapping up the week with some Christmas shopping – unless I run out of time in which case I'll be doing my holiday shopping in Tokyo.  Wonder if mom would like a takoyaki maker?