Tips and recipes to help students survive their first term

Tips and recipes to help students survive their first term

THE STRATEGY

Savvy planning and smart shopping are the key to good cooking on a budget. So save yourself cash, time and grief by getting a strategy.

Here are some top tips – ways to make the most of every meal without emptying your bank account...

Make a Plan

  • Write a list. Don't turn up at the supermarket without one – and try to stick to it.
  • Base your list on a strategy. Plan what to eat at least a couple of days at a time and you can factor in big money-saving strategies.
  • Key top tip – plan food that will last for more than the one meal. A roast chicken costs more than a fillet but can make four other meals (risotto, salad, sarnie, soup). A curry or tart lasts for days. Saves major cash, time, waste, effort.
  • Check individual recipes so you won’t forget key ingredients.
  • Check the cupboard/fridge so you don’t overstock.
  • Build your basic needs into a mantra – i.e. eggs, butter, milk/soy, juice, garlic… Q Split the costs for shared meals like roast dinners – everyone’s a winner.
  • Consider sharing all food bills.
  • Plan to use leftovers.

Source: The Times Online
For the full article including savvy shopping tips, please visit http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/food_and_drink/real_food/article4854187.ece


March 2, 2009, 1:42 pm