By Billy Jack Gramm
Beacon Columnist
Since the pandemic, we have seen price increases in almost everything. The one department that is the most difficult to navigate is food. I think in the hearts of all, shopping locally is our goal, but sometimes prices simply make it way too enticing and economical to shop elsewhere.
I do caution people who believe there are a ton of savings commuting for their groceries. It requires discipline. If you’re like me, any trip to Marquette involves eating out at least once. There are fuel costs, and, most of all, your time. If you’re honest with yourself, you must incorporate all those factors when you put your groceries away.
I am as guilty as they come. I am quick to look at all my receipts and give myself a pat on the back for the money I saved at the big box store on groceries. Then I also find my restaurant bill, my gas bill, my bill for the stuff I purchased that I did not really need and, most of all, my time in transit.
In my household, I cook about 80% of the meals. I am on a first-name basis with just about everyone at our local grocery store in town. I normally go there daily, if not for my business, then simply for supplies to cook dinner for my family. Here are some tips and tricks for preparing meals locally on a budget.
Flexibility — When I go to the store for dinner, I rarely know what I am going to make for dinner. I let the store’s daily sales dictate what I make. I first head to the meat aisle and select a protein that is best priced. Many times, there is something on clearance or sale. Once the main course is decided, I take a trip to the produce aisle where again I look for deals. I think things like salad kits are extremely overpriced unless you can buy them on sale, so don’t take the easier way versus just getting a head of lettuce and cutting it yourself.
Substitutions — Your heart is set on making meatloaf, but the ground beef price is set at a point that is changing your appetite. Consider other ground meats like pork, chicken or turkey. Many times, those ground offerings are considerably cheaper. I often will go 50/50 with a mixture of ground meats to bring the overall price per pound down. The results are often fantastic. It’s a new take on a familiar dish that you may prefer at a cheaper price.
Brand loyalty — Skip the loyalty. Almost all store brand condiments, canned goods and freezer selections are cheaper. The reality is that, in many cases, the brand you prefer is the producer of the store brand. With a little label reading or quick Google search, you can often find out who makes the store brand.
Meal prepping — Shop for three days of meals and go home and prep them all at the same time. You will find many of your dishes include similar ingredients. This will cut out waste. You will only have to clean up after yourself once. I also believe you will enjoy knowing that the next two days of dinner prep is done. You only have to go home and pop it in the oven.
Using these strategies will not only save you money, but it will save you time and your meals will get more creative. It also feels good contributing to the local economy when you can afford to.