It's that time of year again when Meal Planning hits our radar. Perhaps it's the changing season or simply a head start on the New Years "healthy eating" Resolution.
Any way you shake it, it's a big topic of conversation lately. And inevitably the question always comes up about Meal Planning on a Budget.
I recently joined a panel of Foodies for a Video Chat on Frugal Meal Planning. The panel came from all parts of the country and conformed to a host of different diets (Vegan, Paleo, Standard American Diet).
While our food choices varied considerably, the underlying tips for meal planning were very consistent.
3 common themes for meal planning on a budget:
1. Buy in Bulk.
This applies to more than just nuts and grains. In-season produce is great to buy in bulk.
Local apples are a big find right now. One box can produce 6-8 jars of applesauce. Yes, it takes a little more work, but you save money (and it's healthier than anything purchased in the store).
You can also load up on meats when they're on sale.
For those into healthy grass-fed meats, now is the time to place your order with your local farmer. Over the course of a year, it is much cheaper to buy in bulk from your farmer, and stock up your freezer with local grass fed beef, than to buy meats from the grocery store.
Any chance that you get, stock up.
2. Order your Groceries Online
My girlfriend swears by online grocery shopping. She orders all of her groceries through Harris Teeter online. It saves her a lot of money each week because she orders only what she needs.
She never steps foot in the grocery store, preventing her from a lot of impulse buying.
So many healthy foods can be ordered online now too. Amazon is an great place for the online food shopper.
3. Make a List and Stick to It
Regardless of what foods you put on your list each week, most will agree that making a list and sticking to it is the one surefire way to eat on a budget.
If you're looking for a way to compile your weekly meal ideas and grocery list into one sheet, give this tool a try.
This is a simple spreadsheet that the HKI team has been using for years to make that Sunday organization a little easier.
Once your shopping is done, simply tear off the bottom and post your meal planner in a visible place to guide your family through the week.
The Easiest $1 Snack
Speaking of very inexpensive shopping, this snack can be made for just a buck. They are delicious Plantains (the large banana-like item in the produce section).
Here's a simple video to prepare Plantain chips. Enjoy!