Learning to be a
frugal cook will benefit you and your family all year round. It will
allow you to spend money in other areas of your life where you may need
it. Your family will also be much healthier! A thrifty cook doesn't
waste money on processed TV Dinners and prepared foods. Sure, there are
some things that are too good to pass up, but for the most part meals
are easy and taste better when you do it yourself.
I would like to talk about the warehouse stores,
like Sam's Club. You can save money IF you are very selective about what
you buy. I have found the following are always good buys:
*All types of Cheese *Pepperoni *Sausage *Butter
or Margarine *Noodles and Pasta *Canned Vegetables *Tuna *Milk and eggs
*Unbranded Salad Dressings *Spices
There are other good buys, but you have to be
cautious. We have a family of four, and some things are just too large
for us to use before they spoil. You have to look at what your family
uses the most and buy based on that, not on "the deal" of the
big package.
The cheese, pepperoni, sausage, and butter can all
be frozen. I use quart freezer bags for this purpose and I only have a
refrigerator freezer. If you pack tightly you can store what you will
need.
You cannot do all of your grocery shopping at the
warehouse stores. I find I can get most things, except the above items,
cheaper by shopping the sales at the local stores.
Being prepared is one thing a thrifty cook should
always be. Those last minute trips to the store are killers to your
budget. Plan out your spending and know which stores have the best deals
for your family, then stick with it. Here are some resources I have
found to be helpful.
I had read so much about this site, that I visited
and signed up. It is nice, but be careful about the more expensive
recipes if you are on a tight budget. It is definitely a place to spend
some time, and the set up is very user friendly, and fun!
I have been a member at this site for a year now.
I receive a polite email once in a awhile; no spam. It's very well done
and a very nice site. You can order free brochures, and sign up for the
meal planner. Your information is stored online. It really is great, and
I like the fact that even though it is commercial they didn't bombard me
with emails or advertisements. This site will also help you with
organization!
