Lower Your Grocery Bill

Do you feel like you spend too much on groceries?  We all know that the cost of food is constantly on the rise.  How can we combat this?  I've got 3 simple tips.

1 - Before you buy lots of groceries, look in your freezer and cupboard and use what you already have!  That sounds simplistic, but I know plenty of people who have lots of cans and containers of food that just sit.  It may take some creativity and patience, but you can find a way to use those cans sitting in the back of the cupboard, or that leftover ham in the freezer.  If you have a computer, just type into the Google bar: "How can I cook pork and mushrooms?" or "beef and black beans?"  I guarantee you that dozens of recipe ideas will appear before you and you'll be inspired.  I bet some of the chefs on Food Network's "Chopped" do this on a regular basis to prepare for that cooking challenge!

2 - If you have leftovers - EAT THEM!!  Just tell everybody that it's the rule - leftovers must be eaten before new meals are cooked.  I've seen some really creative families make sure they eat all leftover food.  One family I know wraps meal-sized portions of leftovers in plastic wrap and then foil and freezes each "Mystery Plate."  When they have enough plates for a meal, everyone gets one, defrosts it, and has dinner. The foil hides the contents so nobody can cheat and only take certain foods.

3 - Instead of planning meals around cookbooks or fancy recipes, see what is on sale at your grocery store.  Plan your week's meals on the meat and vegetables that are lower in cost.  Again, this sounds too simple, but I'm surprised at how many people don't take advantage of this.  If I find Roasting Chickens or London Broil Steaks on sale, I buy several and freeze them.

So...if you are cooking for your family - pat yourself on the back!  That's always healthier and cheaper than eating out.  You are saving a bundle right there.  And if you try to use your staples, eat leftovers, and "shop the sales" then you'll lower your grocery bill for sure!

How do you use your leftovers?