More Cheap Food Substitutions

by Sherry Holetzky | More from this Blogger

18 May 2006 06:28 AM

Here are a few more ways to save on groceries by making simple substitutions:

Cookies for Breakfast?

It might sound crazy, but those inexpensive store-brand oatmeal cookies, frequently even the frosted ones, typically have less sugar in them than one toaster pastry does (and most kids eat two pastries). The cookies also happen to be far less expensive. So, if serving cookies for breakfast sounds like a wild idea, simply compare the price tag and the sugar content to other breakfast items your children like to eat.

Bread Instead of Buns

Serving sandwich sliced bread is far more economical that using hamburger or hot dog buns. Replacing hot dog buns with a slice of bread is simple, but what if you are serving something more substantial or something messier?

If you're serving larger items such as smoked sausage, or if you're making chili dogs, simply split the sausage down the center and serve it on open faced bread. It can be eaten with a knife and fork instead of being picked up.

To replace hamburger buns, try lightly toasting sandwich bread. Toasted bread works perfectly with cheeseburgers. If you're serving sloppy Joe's or barbequed beef, serve it open faced and it with a knife and fork.

Fruits and Vegetables

Certain fruits and vegetables are cheaper when you buy them prepackaged. For example, a bag of apples usually costs less than individual apples by the pound. The same is usually true of oranges, lemons, potatoes, and onions.

Don't Buy Instant

Products that must be fully cooked are cheaper than instant versions, such as items like rice and mashed potatoes. That doesn't mean you have to completely sacrifice convenience. When you prepare these items, make extra and freeze the remainder. You'll have a handy batch ready to go the next time you need it.

Learn more about Sherry Holetzky

Sherry Holetzky is a work at home mom and freelance writer. Married to her best friend, Sherry and her husband are raising their family in a quiet rural setting in the beautiful Ozark Mountains.

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