With the cost of living continuing to go up, feeding a family well is harder than ever. But the good news is that with a few simple steps, you can still put healthy, filling meals on the table.
Plan before you shop
This is the first step and, in many ways, the most important. Take a few minutes each week to plan your meals. And why not make it a fun family activity? Getting everyone involved means better buy in to the menu.
Look at what you already have at home and build meals around that; this reduces what you need to spend that week. When you have decided on the week’s meals, write a shopping list - and stick to it. This will avoid both impulse buys and over-buying, which often leads to wasted food and hence wasted money – which you can’t afford right now!
Keep meals simple
You don’t need fancy ingredients to eat well. Simple meals like pasta, stir-fries, soups, and casseroles are inexpensive, tasty, and filling. The basics like rice, potatoes, beans, and seasonal vegetables are affordable and have many uses. Simple meals also take less time to cook, leaving you more time to do other things.
Buy in bulk when is makes sense
Staples like rice, oats, pasta, and frozen vegetables are often cheaper in larger packs. And frozen vegetables are at least as nutritious as fresh vegetables with the added bonus of no waste.
Use cheaper cuts of meat (or less meat)
Meat can be one of the most expensive parts of a meal. Make it go further by adding lentils, beans, or extra vegetables. Slow-cooked meals like stews make cheaper cuts tender and tasty. Consider going meatless sometimes – there are lots of delicious vegetarian options, such as tofu or eggs – or just vegetables. With a nice sauce you will wonder why you want meat!
Cook once, eat twice
Make extra portions and use leftovers for lunch or another dinner. For example, roast chicken can become sandwiches, wraps, or a soup the next day.
Don't throw leftovers away, freeze any you don’t want to use immediately. Just make sure you label them clearly!
Choose seasonal and local produce
Fruit and vegetables are usually cheaper when they are in season. If possible, grow your own, and freeze/bottle/pickle any excess.
Limit takeaway and convenience foods
This is where a lot of money can be saved. It’s easy to grab takeaways when life is busy, but they are expensive and less healthy than home-cooked meals. Keep takeaways as a treat or make your own version at home – cheaper and tastier.
And finally...
Be kind to yourself
Times are tough, and you can only do your best. Even small changes will make a big difference over time; don’t feel you have to change everything at once. Look at the suggestions above and implement them in a timeframe that works for you and your family.
And remember – we are here to help.
