you may think about growing some red peppers in a pot. i think they are fairly easy to grow.
Goals: 1. Stop thinking like a chronic dieter and start living to inspire. 2. HALT (hungry, anxious, lonely, tired) I will stop and tune in with myself should I experience these things, and respond with something healthy. 3. One word 2008: courage 4. Eat slow and mindfully.
Sheri, I always have a bag of frozen, sliced bell peppers and onions (store brand!) in the freezer. If I just need a few for something, I can open it and take out just green, or a few yellows and some onions, whatever.
They are atrociously expensive a lot of the time. Don't know if it interests you, but bell peppers are pretty easy to grow, and grow well in containers. They go from (I think, working from memory here) green to yellow to red and eventually to a purple color--all the same plant, just different stages of ripening.
Challenge Goals: *10 minutes of unplanned exercise five times a week *Gym time twice a week *Socialize at least once every two weeks.
yes sheri, 14 K gold is cheaper than red bell peppers here in north carolina.
i buy them once in a while now. if you go to whole foods, you can get a pack of 3-4 , i think they are from mexico, at a decent price. sams clubs also has them in a package but i have found them not to be terribly fresh in the past.
i love them but cannot afford them regularly. but if they are one of only a handful of veggies you like, i would go for it.
Goals: 1. Stop thinking like a chronic dieter and start living to inspire. 2. HALT (hungry, anxious, lonely, tired) I will stop and tune in with myself should I experience these things, and respond with something healthy. 3. One word 2008: courage 4. Eat slow and mindfully.
I was grocery shopping yesterday and saved $20 on that one trip because I was fortunate that a lot of things I use were on a 2-fer or 3-fer sale. My shopping trip reminded me of a question I wanted to post on this thread.
As most of you know, I am a picky eater and there aren't a LOT of fresh veggies I like. One of my favorite things is bell pepper--I don't care for the green ones, but love the red, orange and yellow ones. There are (and have been for some time) atrociously expensive here. I tend to buy 1 small red, orange or yellow bell pepper a week or maybe every other week. As I am about to retire and have to learn to live on not only a smaller paycheck but only get paid once a month vs. twice and have to learn to budget it differently, I am questioning whether buying even 1 small but atrociously expensive pepper per week is a necessary expense.
Which brings me to my questions. Are red, yellow and orange bell peppers expensive where you live as well? If so, and if you enjoy eating them, do you buy them or do you only buy the green ones because they are cheaper?
Posts: 7096 | Location: Rehoboth Beach, DE | Registered: March 12, 2004
On that topic...if you CAN afford a little more, there's an event coming up on May 10 that requires precious little effort:
quote:
Letter carriers, with help from their sisters and brothers in the other postal crafts and thousands of other volunteers, will stage a blitz on Saturday, May 10, to combat hunger in America, conducting NALC’s annual “Stamp Out Hunger” Food Drive in every U.S. state and jurisdiction.
You probably got a little note about it in your mailbox.
I know in our hurricane supplies, we have a lot of canned fruits and vegetables. As good as fresh? No, not always. But when mandarin oranges canned in water are cheap and fresh oranges are not, then the canned ones make sense. This week, a package of frozen vegetables is $1.00. You can bet I'm stocking up, because those will keep, and the fresh stuff won't.
Challenge Goals: *10 minutes of unplanned exercise five times a week *Gym time twice a week *Socialize at least once every two weeks.
Originally posted by Brie: My sil has Celiac's and I don't know for sure, but my guess would be that she doesn't spend more at the market because of it.
I'm cooking tomorrow for a friend and her daughter has Celiac's and I think that MY initial reaction is she needs so many "special" foods and the list of what she can't eat seems long to me.
But OTOH, I'm making chicken, potatoes and brocolli... and the list of perfectly "normal" foods that she CAN eat is HUGE.
I think that I initially was thinking of the special breads and pastas and things.
* * * * * * * Also, Cathy... I was thinking... for SOME people... an analogy might be somebody asking, "I have a budget of $800 a month and a down payment of $5,000. How can I buy a home in San Francisco?" Really, the answer is... You probably can not.
This is what is happening on a global level. People have a budget of 2 cents for a serving of rice... and it is now costing 3 or 4 cents for a serving of rice. And it is causing riots.
And sadly, for some Americans... the question, "How can I eat healthy on $10 or $15 a week?" is answered... you probably can't. You probably can't eat enough fruits and vegs on that tight of a budget.
Forturnately, MOST Americans CAN find a food budget large enough to eat healthy. Not all, but most can. A person doesn't have to be well off to eat healthy. MOST Americans can find $25 or $30 or $40, per person, a week, to eat healthy. It may take some doing, for some families... but for MOST American families, it can be done.
My sil has Celiac's and I don't know for sure, but my guess would be that she doesn't spend more at the market because of it. If anything, she probably spends less because she makes tons from scratch. Bottled and canned foods are a no-no as are most of the contained ingredients she can't eat. She's become an amazing gf baker and makes great breads as well as all kinds of dessert items.
summer 7 challenge goals: - Meditate every day - Start the day with positive imagery and self talk Out of our beliefs are born deeds; out of our deeds we form habits; out of our habits grows our character; and on our character we build our destiny.
Alrighty. I did my weekly sit-down with the coupons, sales, and recipes. The boyfriend's out of town, but if he were here, this is how the upcoming week would go. I'm starting on Tuesday night dinner, because I grocery shop on Tuesday afternoons. Lunches for the week would be a combination of salad, fruit, leftovers, and pantry staples (tuna, Healthy Choice soup).
If something is marked (pantry), I have it already, and it's something I buy regularly enough to know to stock up on. Meats are either from the meat market and purchased in bulk, or from the Illinois pig (also purchased in bulk).
Saturday and Sundays we either eat out or buy something fresh--these are budgeted for. There are definitely places to cut back in the list--the blueberries (they're in season here and just SO good) are not necessary; heads of lettuce could replace the bagged; the dog doesn't NEED treats; we can skip ice cream; catfish fillets are good, but could easily be replaced by a less expensive chicken option; goodness knows I don't really NEED another body wash.
Menu Tuesday: Southwestern Stew: rotisserie chicken ($6.59), 2 bell peppers ($1.98), canned tomatoes ($1.19), fresh corn ($1.00), onion/garlic/chicken broth/pinto beans (pantry) This would feed us both that night, plus give four lunches.
Wednesday: Catfish fillets ($4.50), corn ($1.00), bacon (freezer), grape tomatoes ($2.00) in green beans ($1.00)
Thursday: Beef Enchiladas: tortillas ($1.29), shredded cheese ($2.00), orange wedges ($ .50), canned tomatoes (free!), carnitas (freezer, made last month from on-sale stew meat), onion/garlic (pantry), green bell pepper ($ .99), brown rice as a side (pantry) Two lunches are left over from this.
Grocery List total: ~$105 C = Coupon, S = sale (S) Rotisserie chicken, $6.59 (S) Mangoes, 4/$3.00 (S) Grape tomatoes, 2 pkgs/$4.00 (S) Green bell peppers, $ .99/lb (S) Corn on the cob, 6/$2.00 (S) Blueberries, 2 pkgs/$5.00 (S) Oranges, 4-lb bag/$2.00 (C) Dole salad, $2.99 + $1.00/2 coupon = 2/$5.00 (S) Skinless chicken thighs, $1.79/lb (for freezer) (S) Catfish fillets, $3.99/lb (S) Publix brand shredded cheese, 2/$4.00 (S/C) Dannon yogurt, 10/$6.00 + $1.00 coupon = 10/$5.00 Milk, $2.99 Eggs, $2.19 (C) Claritin, $14.99 + $4.00 coupon = $10.99 (S/C) Dove body wash, $4.99 + $1.00 coupon = $3.99 (C) Saline solution, $6.99 + $2.00 coupon = $4.99 (S) Azteca flour tortillas, 2/$1.29 (buy one get one free) (C) Bumble Bee flavored tuna, $2.99 + $1.00 coupon = $1.99 (S) Cascadian Farms cereal, 2/$4.00 (S) Ro-tel tomatoes, 2/$1.19 (buy one get one free) (C) Dog treats, $5.99 + $1.00 coupon = $4.99 (S) Publix brand whole-wheat English muffins, 2 pkgs /$4.00 (1 pkg for freezer) (S) Breyers Light ice cream, 2/$7.00 (S/C) Green Giant frozen vegetables, $1.00 each + $ .50/2 coupon = 4/$3.00
Edited to add: I don't know enough about gluten intolerance to know what on my list, other than the flour tortillas, would be a no-no. I do know there's not much changing needed for a diabetic, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol patient--if I were to change anything, it would be making ground chicken or turkey enchiladas rather than pork.
This message has been edited. Last edited by: D in St Pete,
Challenge Goals: *10 minutes of unplanned exercise five times a week *Gym time twice a week *Socialize at least once every two weeks.
Originally posted by cobismom: Is this for a meal or a week? I can't believe that a person could spend $60 a meal at McD's. Are prices different across the country.
I think that I wasn't clear enough. I've heard (or read posts) that people feel that that they NEED to eat at McDonald's (or other fast food places) because it is too expensive to eat foods from the grocery store. The McDonald's Dollar menu looks very tempting to people who are very tight for money... because it seems nearly impossible to buy a meal at the grocery store for $1.
My point was that IF a couple (or two people) ate four times a day from the Dollar Menu... with tax (which is (Edit) 8.5% 8.75% here) it would cost them $60+ a week to eat.
While $60 a week for a couple would be one VERY, VERY tight budget and wouldn't allow for organic food or extras... a couple probably could eek out a fairly healthy diet shopping at the grocery store and cooking at home on $60.
quote:
What do you order?????
Me personally? I have an egg mcmuffin and a large coffee with 3 creams about once a month, if I am driving for 5 hours and happen to be driving in the morning. It is usually more than $4 and less than $5... can't remember exactly.
Ummmm... and I had one of their ice coffees (while driving) last month.
quote:
Originally posted by cobismom: There is a problem across the country for people who are on special diets, diabetics, gluten intolerant, children, etc. in being able to purchase the foods that they need and not break their budgets. Normally these people are not on public assistance such as food stamps. Along with this topic, I am working with a lot of these people and parents to provide ideas for shopping and how they can get the foods they need without not paying other bills. Any ideas?
This is a really good article on feeding a family a healthy diet on $21 dollars per person per week.
People who are gluten intolerant would have some big challenges. But, I’ve lived and cooked for children and diabetics and they generally need a good, healthy diet… but, I’m not sure I would call it a “special” diet. Children and diabetics can eat “normal” foods.
But, a food budget of $20-25 dollars a week per person is a real challenge. If a person, has a budget of less than that… I would say that is VERY severe poverty… and it is nearly impossible to eat really healthy or be on any kind of special diet.
However, one good point that the articles make is that MOST people are paid in such a way that it is possible to take advantage of buying in larger packages or buying in bulk.
But if a person has a budget of less than about $20... We are talking about people who are probably not able to meet their nutritional needs or are physically hungry… both are very, very sad.
On the other hand, some American families are sort of in need of financial education on what is a “necessity”. I know some families that claim that they have trouble buying healthy food… yet spend $40, $50, or $60 a month on TV channels. I also know that in the past… we have not been able to afford things like cable TV or video rentals… but we were able to buy healthy food.
And then there are other families who have cut their budgets down to the very, very bare bones… and there is just not enough money to keep up with rising rent, electricity, fuel, health care and food prices. And that is not their fault at all.
PS... there are also people (especially the elderly) who ARE eligable for assistance... but don't think that they are... or don't know HOW to apply for it or get it.
This message has been edited. Last edited by: GoingSkiing,
There is a problem across the country for people who are on special diets, diabetics, gluten intolerant, children, etc. in being able to purchase the foods that they need and not break their budgets. Normally these people are not on public assistance such as food stamps. Along with this topic, I am working with a lot of these people and parents to provide ideas for shopping and how they can get the foods they need without not paying other bills. Any ideas?
Summer Challenge Goals:
1. Get out of the house and in the pool four days a week. 2. Schedule meals a week at a time. 3. five fruits and vegetables a day, along with water.
Posts: 3420 | Location: Central USA | Registered: March 11, 2004
"To feed 2 people on the McDonald's Dollar menu would be over $60. "
Is this for a meal or a week? I can't believe that a person could spend $60 a meal at McD's. What do you order????? Are prices different across the country.
Summer Challenge Goals:
1. Get out of the house and in the pool four days a week. 2. Schedule meals a week at a time. 3. five fruits and vegetables a day, along with water.
Posts: 3420 | Location: Central USA | Registered: March 11, 2004
I have definitely noticed a difference in my grocery bill. I don't budget and spend a certain amount, I just make a list and buy what we need. I try to go organic with fruits/veggies because they always taste better and I'll pay the extra for that. I normally spend about $150/week but the last time I went it was $225! Increased prices coupled with the fact that we needed all kinds of household stuff like shampoo, conditioner, toilet paper, dog food, etc meant a higher bill. I try to buy generic brands but there are just some things where brand name is just better.
I do spend more now that we are eating healthier. But it's worth it. I buy way more fruits and veggies now, less packaged stuff so that increases the price. Eating out is slowly getting less and less because it is so expensive, not to mention that except for one or two places, we can make better tasting meals at home. I really hate when we go out for dinner, spend a lot of $$ and the meal is mediocre. When I really pay is when I don't plan and make a list. Nothing costs more than going to Giant every night before dinner to buy what we need. When we do that it ends up costing about $30-50 a trip because we always pick up some extras. So for six nights a week times $50(I'm figuring in a night out) that is $300!!! I am bummed that oranges are so expensive right now. I love oranges but refuse to pay $1 for two oranges.
Cathy-I'm so sorry to hear about Chip and send you big hugs. Outside our local humane society they have a stone with The Rainbow Bridge writing on it. Your baby is in a good place and is at peace now.
Sandy-I have the same problem with brown rice. Actually any rice-never turns out right. I've even tried KD's microwave rice recipe and there is either water left over or it gets super dry. I'm going to try Denise's recipe and see what happens.
Jill
Summer Challenge Goals: 1) Walk 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week 2) Plan weekly menus
Originally posted by MaryJo: I guess I almost feel embarressed to say that I often have to go back during the week for stuff I run out of, so I guess I spend more than 300.
That amount does not seem excessive to me. I did not count pet food/treats in my total. I also did not count any Ziplock bags or paper products- stuff like that. Plus, my dd is still at a stage where she does not eat much. A gallon of milk lasts us nearly a week. No teens here. Plus, our portions are controlled.
Edited to add that I also make improptu trips when I run out of stuff. I am sure those totals add up too. At some point I might really see where I am at for a week rather then guess that I am in the 100-140 range. Kinda like looking at calories for real. Might be eye opening.
1. Eat per plan each day 2. Give myself credit each day 3. Exercise 45 minutes/day 5 days/week
I will just say that we are a family of five and we have two dogs and two cats. I spend at least $300 a week in groceries.
I never was very good about a budget. I just make a list of what we need each week. I don't buy fancy ingredients for fancy recipies. I do, however spend more for certain organics like I had mentioned, particularly meats and milk.
My kids drink so much milk that I almost feel like I have to buy organic because I fear all of the junk that will go into their developing bodies if I don't.
I guess I almost feel embarressed to say that I often have to go back during the week for stuff I run out of, so I guess I spend more than 300.
Posts: 1363 | Location: West Florida | Registered: March 12, 2004
Thanks Denise and Iz. I'm gonna try both of your suggestions.
And I agree, Denise---It seems way more reasonable to pay 5 cents per serving. I saw Uncle Bens "in a pounch" brown rice (at Target) for $1.99 for maybe (?) 2 servings. I guess I'd buy it on a day I was working and needed dinner NOW and was tempted to go to Dominos, but on most days I can make ahead.
P.S. Cathy-- great HW this weekend. I can't believe the amount of chatting and great information being shared. I guess food and $ are hot topics these days.
1. Eat per plan each day 2. Give myself credit each day 3. Exercise 45 minutes/day 5 days/week
i soak brown rice in water in the morning, so by the time i get home, it cooks just like regular rice. otherwise, it felt underdone.
Goals: 1. Stop thinking like a chronic dieter and start living to inspire. 2. HALT (hungry, anxious, lonely, tired) I will stop and tune in with myself should I experience these things, and respond with something healthy. 3. One word 2008: courage 4. Eat slow and mindfully.
Originally posted by Sandy: How do cook brown rice? I am using the stove top and it takes a long time and sometimes seems underdone.
The "instructions" seem worse than they really are.
I use a large thick bottomed pot... like a soup pot.
I put about 1 tsp of peanut oil in the bottom of the pan and get it really hot.
Then I add 1 pound of brown rice and "brown" it and stir it in the hot oil for 1-2 minutes. I do this until it smells "nutty" and is starting to make "snap, crackle, pop" rice crispy sounds.
Then I add cold water until it is about 1.5 inches over the rice. I stick my finger in the rice and from the tip to the first knuckle or crease is one inch... so I put in water between the first and second crease. That is the water above the rice... not above the bottom of the pot. (hope that makes sense).
Then I put it on high and when it is boiling... I set the timer for 5 mins and boil the cr@p out of it for 5 mins with no lid. (I believe that "boil the cr@p out of it" IS the official, technical cooking term. )
Then I turn down the heat to about 2-3 (simmer-like) on my stove and put the lid on and set timer for 35 mins.
Then when timer goes off... I turn off stove and just let it sit there with the lid on for 20 mins.
The whole thing takes about 65 mins... but only about 1-2 mins of "real" cook time with the hot oil and the rice.
After the rice is cooled to about room temp... I put it in baggies in indiv. servings and freeze them. I can defrost a lump of rice (I take it out of the baggie, first) all by its self in 2 mins in the microwave. For some reason... if I try to defrost the rice with 2 cups of frozen vegetables... it takes half the afternoon. So I defrost the rice and vegs separately.
According to the USDA Pyramid, "one serving" is one oz of dry rice... but I get 12 servings out of 16 oz... and that seems to be about the right amount of brown rice for me, a little more than 1/2 a cup of cooked rice, I think.
I have better luck with brown than with white. My white rice tends to be too mushy... probably because I use too much water. I have better luck with white rice with a rice cooker, but I don't make it very often.
Trader Joes sells frozen brown rice for $3.99. There are 6 cups of rice, and a 1/2 cup serving would be 33 cents a serving... which isn't too bad... but 5 cents a serving is better.
Please share with us some of the basics that you buy and what you pay for them. Also, include
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Oats: I buy the store brand and most days all three of us eat them for breakfast. There are 30 servings in my container that cost about $2.
WW pasta: I buy lots of it when it goes on sale. For 16 oz I generally can pay $1-$1.50. If I make this as a grain, all 3 of us eat it for dinner and for lunches the next day. So...maybe about 20 cents per meal.
Brown rice and white rice: Even though the prices have gone up, it is still super economical
My mega mart sells bananas for 79 cents per bag. The amount of banans per bag varies, but is generally about 15-20. A few of them are usually rotted in places, but most of them are perfectly fine. I buy the bag. We eat them fresh till they are too ripe. Then I cut them up, freeze them and use them for smoothies.
Frozen Berries: I just bought some today. (I try to eat berries at least a few times each week.) The non-organic ones were $1.50 for blackberries and $1.79 for raspberries. The packages are 10 oz each. This is a much cheaper option than fresh berries and they are perfectly fine for yogurt, oatmeal or smoothies.
1. Eat per plan each day 2. Give myself credit each day 3. Exercise 45 minutes/day 5 days/week
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