Save Money on Food

Can't afford to eat out as much as before? Tired of frozen meals that end up all tasting the same? Try cooking. No, don't look at me like that. It can be fun. It is healthier. And, it can save you lots of money.

First, gather the family. The more you can get the family involved, the easier it is on you. Get them to list all of their favorite dishes. This way everyone feels included and has a voice. Second, make a menu for the week using the list. If you are new to cooking, start with only a few meals for a week and limit the menu to easy to prepare items. Third, make a grocery list of things you need to make the dishes that are on the menu. When I was 16 and and got my driving license, I started doing the grocery shopping for Mom. She gave me the list and the money and away I went. I loved it because I could flirt with the bag-boys at the store. They would even "help" me load the groceries in the car.

Here are a few tips to make cooking easier:

1. You DO NOT have to peel potatoes. I never do, even if I am going to mash them. Everyone gets used to it and you are saving valuable vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
2. Cook everything in the oven (except noodles). Bake a meatloaf, burgers, chicken, pork chops, roast, whatever. Put rice and water in a COVERED (use a lid or foil) baking dish. Put veggies in a COVERED baking dish with some butter or cheese (You won't believe the flavor!). Most rice and veggies take about an hour. Heat sauces in a covered baking dish (1/2 hour). Put potatoes right on the oven rack. I always bake extra and fry the leftovers the next night.
3. Use last night's leftovers for tonight's meal. Make a soup with chicken or roast. Make a casserole with chopped up burgers or pork chops. Use your imagination.
4. Get the family involved. Little kids can wash veggies. Older kids can chop and mix. Someone can set the table. The point is to make it family time. Everyone eats, so everyone can help prepare. This is also a great learning experience for the kids (and maybe you too).
5. Everyone needs to help with the clean up too. One can clear and wipe the table while one puts leftovers away. Everyone can take turns washing the dishes. "Many hands make light work."

Cooking at home has many advantages. It is less expensive. It is healthier. It is good family time. Everyone learns something. And, it is fun.