Budge that Budget

In these uncertain economic times, one area that I seem to focus on when trying to stretch the household budget is food. Here's my Lower-the-Grocery-Budget Top 10 list:

1. Make a menu plan and a grocery list, then stick with it.
2. Plan a meatless meal at least once or twice a week.
3. Use fresh items that are in season, avoid out of season specialties. One place to find out what is in season in your area is The "eat seasonal" chart by Sustainable Table.
4. Avoid going to the grocery store any more often than necessary. If I can stretch out the time between shopping trips I tend to do without a few luxuries and make do with what I have on hand, ultimately lowering my grocery bill.
5. Grow your own food, or participate in co-op buying groups or CSA's (Community Supported Agriculture).
6. Cook from scratch as much as possible- it is almost always less expensive, and healthier, than the prepackaged or processed options. My time is valuable, but with practice and planning most dishes don't take much longer to make from scratch. If needed, the expense of a cooking class could pay for itself in a very short time.
7. Cook in large batches (or at least double) and freeze the extra portions to be used as a convenient meal later in the month. This is usually less expensive than the prepared items purchased in the store, and often a healthier alternative. It also reduces the temptation to spontaneously eat out.
8. Pre-portion meals and serve individual plates to the table rather than serving family style. You will reduce the temptation for unnecessary extra portions.
9. Make eating at the table as a family a priority, rather than eating at the counter or on the run. You will eat more slowly and have the priceless benefit of time spent together. (This tip is a "two-fer"- it is also one of my favorite parenting tips!)
10. Utilize leftovers. Leftovers served as-is are not popular in our home, but if they are used as ingredients for a "new" dish no one minds. This past weekend I had some black beans and mexican rice and a little bit of fresh salsa left over from an enchilada meal. I tossed them into a pot with some chicken stock, a chopped up chicken breast (also leftover from another meal) and some tomatoes with green chilis. We enjoyed a delicious Tortilla Soup. Use Big Oven Leftover Wizard for new recipes or inspiration.