Money a little tighter than usual? I’ve been there. It’s hard, but over the years, I’ve learned a few strategies that really help.
REMEMBER, THIS IS TEMPORARY
If you find …
This item is available in full to subscribers.
Please log in to continue |
If you find yourself struggling, keep in mind this is not forever. A few years ago, my household was relying on food donations from Prodisee Pantry to get by. We don’t need that anymore, but budgeting wisely is still essential. Tough times don’t last forever, and making small, consistent choices now pays off later.
I get it — there are foods you just don’t like. But when money is tight, you have to make the most of what’s available. Don’t skip meals because something is more carb-heavy than you’re used to or you don't normally like it. And remember that foods do not have morals — they are not "good" or "bad." Your body, including your brain, needs fuel, and even natural sugars in moderation are helpful. Dark chocolate counts, too, so don’t feel guilty treating yourself.
I try to minimize trips, balancing time, gas and cost. For my household, Walmart has been the cheapest overall and convenient due to its large selection.
But, one trick we've learned is to shop around. If you want to cut extra costs, try the Publix app. Publix is pricier, but the weekly BOGO deals can be excellent. The key is to buy only items you were planning to purchase anyway and only make special trips if there are several items on sale, as gas costs money, too. On BOGO, each item is essentially half off, though limits apply.
For example, a $13.86 pack of pork chops recently cost us $6.93 plus tax. Other items like dumpling noodles, cereal and tortillas were on BOGO, too. The app also includes weekly coupons, which can save you a buck or two. Just compare prices — sometimes Walmart is still cheaper — but if several needed items are on sale at Publix, it can be worth a trip.
Club Publix offers extra perks, too. Members get a free bar cake or carton of ice cream on their birthday and half off halfway through the year to your birthday. Occasionally, there are offers like $5 or $10 off purchases.
When shopping at Walmart, off-brand products can save a few dollars. I splurge on some favorites, but for everyday items, store brands usually work fine.
Don't forget to check out Rouse's, ALDI, Dollar General and other stores for deals that may be best for your household. If you have time, looking at each store's coupons as well as manufacturer coupons can help save money as well.
Potatoes are surprisingly cost-effective and satiating. They have been named the most satiating food on the Satiety Index, when boiled. When we "bake" potatoes for our household of two (in the microwave), they are ready in 10-12 minutes and can be topped with cottage cheese, cheddar, bacon, sour cream, chili, Greek yogurt or leftovers like barbecue chicken, taco meat, etc. Then just add a side of salad or steamed broccoli. It’s a hearty, inexpensive meal that’s easy to prepare and clean up.
You can also make bread out of potatoes or homemade fries or even potato salad, etc. And while I don't believe you have to eat specific foods at certain mealtimes, potatoes have been traditionally used as breakfast, lunch, dinner and for snacks.
Bread or tortillas act as fillers, helping you feel full for less while also providing a bit of macronutrients. Opt for whole wheat or whole grain for added nutrition and more filling portions. You can also make your own bread. Pasta and rice are cheap, mild and versatile. Brown rice and whole grain pasta offer a healthier, more filling option. You can make different dishes by drizzling Italian dressing or a tasty vinaigrette, melting cream cheese with sautéed mushrooms or experimenting with herbs and spices.
Protein is important, but fiber is often overlooked and a key macronutrient in helping you fill up and keeping you full. Beans and lentils are inexpensive, nutritious and filling. Canned beans are convenient; dried beans are versatile and store well. Most beans provide 10-15 grams of protein per cup and 5-15 grams of fiber, making them a budget-friendly way to stay full.
For my household of two, butter beans with half a link of turkey sausage plus a piece of crusty bread is a simple, satisfying one-pot meal. Lentils are equally versatile — they work in soups, burgers, tacos, nachos, sloppy joes and more. I've even thrown in a few handfuls to my pot of spaghetti, which thickens the sauce and adds extra fiber and protein. You can also do the same thing with split peas. Adding fiber gradually is key, as too much too fast can cause digestive discomfort.
Soup is a lifesaver, especially now that the weather has cooled. Use fresh, canned or frozen vegetables, add potatoes or beans, and stretch it with water. A piece of bread or some crackers rounds out the meal. Soups are easy, one-pot and inexpensive.
Spices, oils, butter and sauces make simple meals enjoyable. Even a bowl of rice and green beans can be flavorful with a barbecue sauce, a salad dressing, hot sauce, herbs or citrus. Experiment with flavors you like — it doesn’t take fancy ingredients to make food taste good. Rice with a bit of Worcestershire sauce is pretty tasty and can be eaten with stir-fry, as a tangy chicken and rice variation and more.
Canned chicken lasts a long time and can be used in salads, burgers, soups or casseroles. Sautéing canned chicken briefly can improve texture. It’s a flexible, long-lasting protein option when fresh meat is expensive or unavailable.
Sometimes when you have to cut back on servings, you need to trick your mind a bit. Here are some simple ways to make servings feel bigger without actually adding more food, adapted from U.S. Foods:
Use smaller plates. Research shows people tend to underestimate portion sizes on larger plates, which can lead to overeating. A smaller plate can make your meal feel more generous.
Set expectations early. Present smaller portions as special treats, like a locally raised protein or seasonal vegetables, so diners feel satisfied rather than shortchanged.
Think tall and slim. Taller glasses or containers can make portions appear larger, helping you feel like you’re getting more.
Boost the flavor. Bold, smoky or spicy tastes encourage slower eating and make even modest portions feel satisfying.
Plate strategically. Surrounding food with a tight garnish or sauce — using the Delboeuf illusion — can make it look more substantial.
Stretch expensive ingredients. If pricey items like morel mushrooms are straining your budget, mix in a more affordable variety. You keep the flavor and balance costs without shrinking portions.
There are apps that pay small amounts for surveys, mobile games or shopping. The money isn’t huge, but a few extra dollars here and there helps stretch your budget.
Tight budgets are stressful, but with a little flexibility, planning and creativity, you can eat well, save money and even enjoy the process. Small changes add up and experimenting with what works for you can make the journey easier and more satisfying.
Do you have tips to share? I’d love to hear them and add to this list. Email me at whisper@gulfcoastmedia.com.
