Food costs have been on the rise over the last few years, and many of us are looking for ways to save money wherever possible. The kitchen is no exception—we all have to eat, but figuring out where to cut corners on something so essential can be seriously overwhelming. Fortunately, it doesn’t have to be so complicated. With the right knowledge, it’s possible to save money on your food bill without sacrificing the flavors you love. Read on for some of our go-to tricks.
Try Meal Planning
Planning your meals in advance will help you to save money and avoid expensive, last-minute grocery store runs. Take some time at the beginning of each week to figure out what you’d like to make, and then create a grocery list to stay accountable to while shopping. Buy your most frequently used ingredients in bulk, keeping an eye out for sales and discounts whenever possible. Choosing seasonal produce is also a great way to cut costs, as the reduced storage and transportation that these fruits and vegetables require is often reflected in their price.
Minimize Food Waste
Throwing away food is like throwing away money, so get creative with your leftovers by incorporating them into delicious new dishes. Transform any random veggies you may have in the fridge into a savory soup, or pulse stale bread in a food processor to make breadcrumbs that you can mix into burger patties. Store leftovers in airtight containers, and organize your fridge so that older items are easiest to access. Remember the acronym FIFO—First In, First Out.
Choose Homemade
Pre-packaged foods and ready-made meals may save you time, but this convenience comes at a cost. Preparing your own meals as well as pantry staples like salad dressings, sauces, and snacks has the potential to seriously slash your grocery bill over time, not to mention the multitude of benefits that avoiding processed food can have on your health. If you have the space, you may even want to consider growing your own herbs or vegetables for additional savings.
