Important Drop-Off Information
- Donation Deadline: Tuesday, November 21st
- Drop-Off Location:Inntirety Healing Center
- Address: 233 S 102nd St, Edwardsville, KS 66111
1. Jar Requirements & Needs
The goal is to create a complete, shelf-stable meal that can be prepared with minimal additional ingredients (ideally just water).
- Jar Size: Jars similar in size to a standard spaghetti sauce jar (e.g., salsa jars, large pickle jars, quart-sized Mason jars).
- Volume Requirement: Aim for 24 oz (3 cups) up to 32 oz (quart). A quart-size jar is perfect for a multi-serving meal.
- Lids: Must have tight-fitting, secure lids. This is crucial for keeping the contents dry, safe, and bug-free.
- Safety Note: All ingredients must be dry, shelf-stable, and sealed (no refrigeration needed).
2. Recipe Ideas: Dried Food Meals in a Jar
You can be creative with the following shelf-stable ingredients! Layering the ingredients makes for a nice visual presentation. Use a clean, new, or well-washed jar.
| Meal Type | Key Ingredients to Include (All Dried) | Seasoning Base |
| Hearty Beef & Bean Chili | Instant/Quick-Cook Pinto Beans, Dried Ground Beef (or TVP), Quick-Cook Rice, Dried Onion Flakes | Chili Powder, Cumin, Beef Bouillon (powder/granules), Garlic Powder, Dried Oregano, Salt/Pepper |
| Chicken & Rice Soup Mix | Instant White Rice, Dried Pasta (small shapes), Chicken Bouillon (powder/granules), Dried Minced Onion | Parsley, Thyme, Dried Celery Flakes, Garlic Powder, Black Pepper |
| Savory Lentil & Barley Mix | Red or Green Lentils (or quick-cook lentils), Barley, Dried Vegetable Flakes (carrots, celery) | Vegetable Bouillon (powder/granules), Cumin, Dried Bay Leaf (on top), Turmeric, Salt |
| Oatmeal Breakfast Jar | Rolled Oats (not instant), Brown Sugar, Cinnamon, Raisins, Dried Apples | Pinch of Salt, Optional: Nutmeg |
3. Featured Recipe: Beef Taco Rice Meal in a Jar
This recipe is hearty, flavorful, and uses many of the requested ingredients. It makes a multi-serving meal.
| Ingredient | Amount (Layering Order is Recommended) |
| Quick-Cook White Rice | 1 1/2 cups |
| Dried Ground Beef (or TVP*) | 1 cup |
| Dried Onion Flakes | 2 Tablespoons |
| Taco Seasoning Mix | 3 Tablespoons |
| Beef Bouillon (Powder/Granules) | 2 Teaspoons |
| Tomato Powder | 1/4 cup |
| Dried Black or Pinto Beans** | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | 1 1/2 Teaspoons |
| Black Pepper | 1/2 Teaspoon |
- *TVP (Textured Vegetable Protein) is an inexpensive, shelf-stable vegetarian substitute for ground meat.
- **If using regular dried beans (not quick-cook), include a note on the cooking instructions that the beans may need to be soaked overnight or cooked separately for a longer time.
Instructions for Gifting (To be included on a tag/label):
- Combine the contents of the jar into a large pot.
- Add 6 cups of water or broth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Cover and cook for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the rice and beans are tender. Stir occasionally.
- Remove bay leaf (if used) and serve.
4. 🌟 The Extra Mile: Dehydrated Veggie Section
If members have access to a dehydrator, this adds significant nutritional value and flavor! Please use commercially dried or professionally home-dehydrated foods to ensure safety and shelf-life.
| Extra Mile Ingredient | Suggested Amount (for a Quart Jar) | Tip |
| Dehydrated Mixed Vegetables (Carrots, Peas, Corn, Green Beans) | 1/2 to 3/4 cup | Great for adding to any soup or stew base. |
| Dehydrated Bell Peppers (Red, Green, or Mixed) | 1/4 cup | Perfect for the Taco Rice or Chili recipe. |
| Dehydrated Diced Potatoes | 1/2 cup | Add to the Beef & Bean Chili for a hearty stew. |
| Dried Mushrooms (sliced or powdered) | 1-2 Tablespoons | Adds a rich, earthy flavor to a Chicken or Beef soup/stew. |
5. 🛒 Shopping Guide: Cheap Bulk Ingredients
To help keep costs low for the drive, here are general types of stores in the 66111 area (Edwardsville, KS) and surrounding 15 miles where bulk, inexpensive rice and beans are typically found:
| Store Type | Example Locations (Check your local area within 15 miles of 66111) | Notes on Savings |
| Discount/Bulk Stores | Walmart Supercenter, Sam’s Club (Membership), Aldi | Excellent for large bags of rice, dried beans, and oats. Look for store brands for the best price per ounce. |
| Ethnic/International Markets | Asian Supermarkets, Mexican/Latino Grocers | Often carry the best prices on bulk rice (e.g., 20-50 lb bags) and a variety of dried beans, spices, and seasonings. |
| Warehouse/Club Stores | Costco (Membership) | Best for very large quantities of dried goods and spices if making many jars. |
| General Grocers (Large Chain) | Kroger/Dillons (Smith’s Food and Drug in the search results is part of the Kroger family) | Look for their weekly sales flyers and generic/store-brand products. |
💖 A Word on Community and Gratitude
“In a world that often feels rushed and segmented, the act of giving a simple, lovingly prepared meal is a profound declaration of community. Every bean, every grain of rice, is packed with more than just nourishment—it’s packed with the quiet, powerful reminder that we are all connected. This Thanksgiving, may your hands be a vessel for the boundless gratitude we have for one another.”
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