Did you know that 25% of the food bought in Australia goes in the bin? This blog is going to help you to make the most of the food you buy, reduce waste, and save money at the same time.
Buy in Season: This will save you money and you can freeze any extras to maintain freshness longer. Some vegetables don’t freeze well, for example salad lettuce, celery, cucumber and radish are not great produce to freeze. Avocado can be frozen, simply mash and add a squeeze of lemon then add to an air-tight container before freezing.
Washing: Do not wash your fruit and vegetables immediately after bringing them home from the supermarket. This can cause your fresh produce to become moldy more quickly. Try to wash each piece just before you use it.
Separate Garlic and Onions: These produce ethylene which can cause your other fresh produce to ripen and go bad more quickly. Store these separately in the pantry and cover with a tea towel to keep dark.
Herbs: Place your herbs in an ice cube tray. Add stock and pour on top of herbs. If you do not have stock extra virgin olive oil works just as well. When you make a meal pop a cube into the pan and this gives your meal a delicious, flavorful, and nutritious base to your meal.
Plant Based Proteins: Pre-made marinated tofu is a great way to add a non-meat alternative to your meal. You can buy these from your supermarket already ready to go to reduce prepping time. Other great plant-based alternatives to meat are eggs, nuts, and legumes (yes baked beans count). Opt for the no added sugar and low sodium varieties.
Greens Storage: If you have a package of greens if you put a paper towel in with the leaves this will help make your lettuce last longer.
Dried Beans: Pour the dried beans into a bowl and pour the water in the bowl. Pour in more water than you think as the beans dissolve the water. Cover with a tea towel and leave overnight. If possible, change the water one to two times. In the morning bring the beans to boil, reduce to a simmer and leave for an hour. Your beans will then be ready to use.
Good news is you can freeze your beans. If you do not want to use the whole portion in one go separate what you do not want to use in an airtight container, add some warm water on top and freeze for later.
Try adding beans into casseroles, bolognaise, minces as they save you money by using less meat and adding more fiber and vegetables to the meal too.
Take home message: Try these tips to save money, time and reduce waste of the food you buy.
