The Usual Shopping Tips

There are some interesting considerations you need to keep in mind when you are shopping. A lot of these tips are pretty basic, but worth repeating any way. So, without any farther ado:

Cards: You want at least one club card, such as for Costco or Sam’s Club; this is for re-stocking purposes and other bulk purchases. You also want as many cards for any grocery stores in the vicinity; different stores have different specials and sometimes it’s a good to have options.

The List: Always compile your list with the needs and desires of everyone that you are shopping for. If someone has needs that should be addressed but didn’t tell you, then it’s their fault. Also learn to tell the difference between real needs and fake ones; if someone has a problem with vegetables just glare at him. Also, allow for about $50-$75 per person per week; it may sound expensive, but it will work out in the end, especially you are dealing with people that have any kind of appetite. If they don’t have an appetite, then they will be making it up with more expensive ingredients.

Menus: Don’t plan meals ahead; just stock up. It’s fine to plan one or two meals a week, but don’t get too organized. It may sound like a good idea to plan everything in advance, but too many small things can trip up the planning, such as neighbors borrowing things, roommates may eat the food, or ninety-nine other things may happen that throw the menu plans off. Just make that there is food, and you should do okay.

Cheese: You should consider block cheese before sliced, and sliced before shredded. The logic here is pretty basic:: The block version allows you to do almost anything with it, and sliced cheese gives you more options than shredded.

Vegetables: Always go for variety. Not only does it keep things interesting, but there are other considerations. For example, too much corn in the diet can lead to niacin poisoning. I prefer a good Normandy and Oriental mixes for my frozen vegetables, as well as a variety of canned vegetables. One of the problems with canned vegetables is that the nutrients may have leaked into the water; however, keep in mind that every six ounces of canned vegetables counts as a half a cup of water for rice purposes. Raw vegetables are great things as well.

Meat: Although hamburger will most likely be the most prevalent meat, throw in some brats and chicken.  Eggs are also a good light protein, great for salads. Tofu also works. If you need steak and lots of it, do some research; there are always places that do meat packages for reasonable cost.  Canned tuna fish is nicely versatile. Tofu and fish fillets are not bad ideas. A little variety is always a good things.

Pre-packaged foods: Ramen and mac & cheese are always good things. Keep in mind that one box will feed two adults. Otherwise, go with sales whenever possible.

You will find your own neat little tricks. However, this list should get you started. Just have fun, and you should do okay.