COOKING ON A BUDGET

Follow these tips when shopping and cooking on a budget

Tip #1 - Shop seasonally

Look at our seasonal fruit and veg info sheets!

Tip #2 - Plan your meals

Sit down and write down what you want to eat for dinner for the week (left over for lunches?) and write down your grocery list. This will help you not turn to buy takeaway food when it comes 5 pm and you’re hungry.

Tip #3 - Take a list to the grocery store and include snacks on it!

" Before planning your weekly meals, go through your pantry, fridge, and freezer and make a “to use” list. Try to find recipes with these items. "

Tip #4 - Bulk cook and put in the fridge or freezer for future meals

Make a big batch of something like meat or lentil Bolognese, a chicken or tofu stew, or meat or veg burgers.

Tip #5 - Enjoy more vegetarian meals

Meat is expensive! Beans and lentils are nutritious and affordable alternatives.

Tip #6 - Plan meals around items in your pantry

Before planning your weekly meals, go through your pantry, fridge, and freezer and make a “to use” list. Try to find recipes with these items.

Tip #7 - Strategically plan your recipes

If you choose one recipe that uses half a head of cauliflower, choose another recipe for that week that also uses half a head of cauliflower

Tip #8 - Have a leftovers night or two

Tip #9 - Purchase bulk items and share them with a friend

Tip #10 - Be smart with sales

Look out for a sale for items that are on your list but don’t buy an item just because it’s on sale