HOW TO SAVE ON GROCERY

When we first arrived in the dam, we were spending a lot on grocery. About 80-100euros a week. It has since dropped to about 40-50euros. Believe it or not and we are eating much better than before.

HERE ARE SOME TIPS TO HELP YOU :

• Try not to follow recipes unless you really have to, like cooking for a special occasion. Cooking free-style (OK, you really have to have all those knowledge in your head already, what goes well with what...etc.) can save you a lot of time and money.
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  We always check for discounts. We are not being cheapskate here but discounts on meats and vegetables usually mean that they are in season and are fresher than the rest. Checking the site for discounts before the start of the week can help you to plan ahead.
• We like to shop on Mondays. Supermarkets are always clearing last week's produce on Mondays. So you do get extra discounts and sometimes very good meat which they want to get rid of for new stock. Those meats are in very good and fresh conditions, they just need space for newbies.
• We like to buy discounted meat to freeze. With the weather being so cold now, it is silly to go out of the house just to get that pack of minced beef for your ragu. Unless you are having a steak or any meats that should not be cooked through, you can always freeze your meats for a rainy day stew or a slow cook dish.
• Buy in bulk. Things you need are not always discounted when you need them. We do not mean to hoard, but buying some extra bits like toothpaste, dish washing liquids, shaving foam...etc., can always help to save a lot when you do need them. Just make sure that you keep note of the expiry date on food products.
• Try different supermarkets. Supermarkets have different discounts. Spread your grocery in a couple of markets if you may.
• Some things are always worth stocking up if they are discounted, canned tomatoes, purees, canned tuna, rice, pasta...etc.