Since the exchange student we are hosting is vegetarian and my brain is needing some new ideas, I checked out The Clueless Vegetarian from our local library. I liked the book from the dietary needs chart for vegetarians to the recipes. My husband likes his meat even if it is for flavoring and until this past week, only liked one meatless dish. That was the Eggplant Parmesan I make. That makes things interesting (translated to make-things-harder-for-me-in-the-kitchen). I tried a new dish from the book I checked out. My husband loves cashews and Chinese so I hoped that this dish would make his list. I am an optimist.
Cashew Noodle Stir-fry made his list enough so that he called me (I was donating blood with my oldest at the time) to tell that the dish was a keeper even without meat. YES! I love it when I have a hit with the family (as all the family loved it except the kid who hates nuts and just about everything else). I had some tweaks (I always seem to cook that way) which I included after the original recipe below.
CASHEW NOODLE STIR-FRY
12 oz package thin pre-cooked Chinese Noodles OR
8 oz very thin pasta, vermicelli or capellini
1 Tablespoon vegetable oil
1 cup cashew pieces
1 medium sweet green or red pepper, thinly sliced
2 stalks celery, sliced
1 (14 oz) can baby corn cobs, drained and halved lengthwise
2 cups fresh bean sprouts
4 green onions, slivered
2 Tablespoons soy sauce
1 Tablespoon Chinese chili paste (or less or none)
If you are using precooked Chinese noodles, open the package and place them in a strainer. Pour boiling water over them and fluff them up with a fork. That's all. They are now ready to use. If you are using regular pasta, cook it in plenty of boiling water until tender but not mushy, drain thoroughly, and set aside.
Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet. Add cashews, and stir-fry over high heat for 1 minute, until they are lightly golden. Now throw in the sliced green or red pepper, celery and baby corn, and stir-fry for about 3 minutes. Add the bean sprouts and the green onions, and cook for just one minute more, until the sprouts are beginning to wilt. Now stir in the noodles, and toss to combine.
In a small bowl, stir together the soy sauce and the shili paste (if using it), then add to the noodle mixure , tossing just until heated through. (If you're not using the chili paste, you may want to increase to amount of soy sauce.) Serve immediately. Makes 4 servings.
My changes:
I used vermicelli for my pasta as I already had that in my pantry. I used green and yellow pepper but not the baby corn (don't care for it). I couldn't find fresh sprouts at the stores I went to and did not want to drive all over for one item. I used canned sprouts, drained, for the recipe. Also I had doubled the recipe and just used one can. I sliced the green onions not slivered. I opted out of using the chili paste and did not increase the amount of soy sauce. I don't care for overly salty food.
I served the meal with egg drop soup and fresh fruit. As I said, it was a huge hit. I was lucky enough to have a little saved for me. I loved it as well. I like the bursts of color which make it a pretty dish to serve up.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Weekly Menu: September 28 - October 4
Monday
Breakfast: Donuts, Cantaloupe, Juice and Milk
Breakfast: Donuts, Cantaloupe, Juice and Milk
Snacks: Homemade Bread and Butter
Dinner: Beef Fajitas, Refried Beans, Spanish Rice
Tuesday
Breakfast: Breakfast Burritos, Orange Juice and Milk
Breakfast: Breakfast Burritos, Orange Juice and Milk
Snack: Pudding and Graham Crackers
Dinner: Barbecued Chicken, Ranch Potatoes, Picnic Beans, Coleslaw
Wednesday
Breakfast: Mixed Berry and Cream Muffins, Scrambled Eggs, Milk
Breakfast: Mixed Berry and Cream Muffins, Scrambled Eggs, Milk
Snack: Popcorn and Apple Juice
Dinner: BBQ Chicken Sandwiches, Chips, Coleslaw
Thursday
Breakfast: Rice Cereal, Juice and Milk
Breakfast: Rice Cereal, Juice and Milk
Snack: Cookies and Milk
Dinner: Chili, Cornbread, Fruit
Friday
Breakfast: Omelettes, Toast, Fruit, Juice or Milk
Breakfast: Omelettes, Toast, Fruit, Juice or Milk
Snack: Nachos
Dinner: Meatball Casserole, Steamed Broccoli, Cesar Salad, Breadsticks
Saturday
Breakfast: Pancakes, Bacon, Melon, Orange Juice and Milk
Breakfast: Pancakes, Bacon, Melon, Orange Juice and Milk
Snacks: Available Snacks
Lunch: Leftovers
Dinner: Salsa Pork Over Rice, Tossed Salad, Peaches
Sunday
Breakfast: Cold Cereal/Granola, Milk
Snack: Available Snacks
Dinner: Chicken Tenders, Mashed Potatoes, Broccoli and Cheese, Carrot Sticks
Friday, September 25, 2009
$75 Challenge Week 4
Yeah, well ... I am not sure I am going to make the challenge goal. I think I did well though. One good thing about keeping track of my groceries is realizing how much this horde of locusts eats! I still think feeding 10 people (ages 2, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 17 + two adults) with the 2 year having the special dietary needs on what I have this past month is great. We have tried new dishes and had plenty of fresh fruit and veggies to munch not to mention yummy homemade bread. I know I could have cut costs even more. I didn't want to though. I was comfortable where I was. I didn't start with a stocked pantry like I usually have as I have been cutting costs back all year. I have used the items but not been able to replace them.
I ran out of some staples and also bought some juice pouches for field trips as everything taken needs to be thrown away. I splurge on some chips too. So now let's see the damage done this week (shopping done 3 different days) ...
What was bought:
-- Day 1 --
Super Wal-Mart
Soy Milk (2 half gallons) - $5.52
Caprisun (10 pk) - $1.88
Cashews - $4.48
Flour (5 lb) - $1.88
Sugar (5 lb) - $2.14
Bananas (1.87 lb) - $1.08
Grapes (2.25 lb) - $3.11
Peaches (1.28 lb) - $1.28
American Sliced Cheese, 2% - $2.98
Baby Carrots (1 lb) - $1.78
Cinnamon - $.50
Green Onions - $1.00
Eggs (dzn) - $1.00
Bread - $1.13
Potato Chips - $2.65
Cheddar Puffs - $1.50
TOTAL: $34.38
-- Day 2 --
County Market
Kidney Beans, dry - $1.59
Bean Sprouts, canned (2) - $1.98
Golden Delicious Apples (2.74 lb) - $2.41
Gala Apples (2.41 lb) - $2.12
Anjou Pears (1.22 lb) - $1.45
Baby Carrots (2 lb) - $1.99
Frozen Vegetables (15 bags of assorted) - $11.85
TOTAL: $23.62
Aldi
Mozzarella, shredded (16 oz) - $2.89
Parmesan Cheese - $1.99
Canola Oil -$2.49
Eggs (3 dzn) - $2.67
Orange Juice Concentrate (2) - $1.98
Apple Juice Concentrate - $.82
Other Juice Concentrate - $1.24
Bananas - $.74
Broccoli - $.99
Cantaloupe (2) - $1.78
French Dressing - $.99
Ranch Dressing - $.99
Iceberg Lettuce - $.99
Bell Peppers, 2 colored - $1.99
Tortillas (2) - $1.98
Graham Crackers - $1.29
Tortilla Chips (2) - $1.98
Wheat Crackers - $1.19
Snack Crackers (2) - $3.58
Pretzels (2) - $2.58
Brown Sugar (2 lb) - $1.24
Baking Powder - $.99
Pancake Syrup - $1.39
Celery - $.99
Taco Mix - $.33
TOTAL: $38.68
-- Day 3 --
Super Wal-Mart
Strawberries (2) - $4.50
Pineapple - $1.98
Cantaloupe - $1.25
Golden Delicious (2.14 lb) - $2.14
Gala Apples (2.47 lb) - $2.47
Thousand Island Dressing - $1.18
Iceberg Lettuce - $1.28
Bananas (5.73 lb) - $3.21
Tomatoes (1.82 lb) - $3.21
Olives, sliced (2) - $2.32
TOTAL: $23.39
WEEKLY TOTAL: $120.07
The monthly total is brought up to $348.82 or $87.20 weekly average. Eegads! Okay, I bought more fruit than usual since my kids are eating more of it. A healthy snack for sure so I am not complaining! It helps the sweet tooth but is better for you. We had company Thursday night (hence the day 3 trip) for dinner. I made taco salad with tortilla bowls and served fruit as a side. It was a huge hit with little leftovers. County Market was having a sale on frozen veggies ($.79 a bag) so I stocked a little. I bought peas, broccoli as well as bell peppers and onion mixes to use in omelettes and dishes when my garden quits producing. Even if I am over the $75 for this week, I came in under what I usually spend. I didn't plan as well, but chalk that up to lack of sleep due to being sick with allergies and a cold.
I did cook up beans for the taco salad last night that helped the 1.5 lbs of taco meat stretch for 12 people. I usually make tortillas, but mine are thicker than store-bought. I needed thinner ones to make the bowls which made dinner fun. The kids loved it. I have made more bread much to my kids delight. The kids love the fresh fruit in the basket on the counter to grab and munch on so I keep a variety in there depending on what is on sale (lots of fruit on sale this time of year). A variety ensures the kiddos aren't bored and eat more of it. I also found baby carrots might cost more, but my kids love them and eat them up. I also find it keeps me snacking healthier too. I still use regular carrots for cooking.
I ran out of some staples and also bought some juice pouches for field trips as everything taken needs to be thrown away. I splurge on some chips too. So now let's see the damage done this week (shopping done 3 different days) ...
What was bought:
-- Day 1 --
Super Wal-Mart
Soy Milk (2 half gallons) - $5.52
Caprisun (10 pk) - $1.88
Cashews - $4.48
Flour (5 lb) - $1.88
Sugar (5 lb) - $2.14
Bananas (1.87 lb) - $1.08
Grapes (2.25 lb) - $3.11
Peaches (1.28 lb) - $1.28
American Sliced Cheese, 2% - $2.98
Baby Carrots (1 lb) - $1.78
Cinnamon - $.50
Green Onions - $1.00
Eggs (dzn) - $1.00
Bread - $1.13
Potato Chips - $2.65
Cheddar Puffs - $1.50
TOTAL: $34.38
-- Day 2 --
County Market
Kidney Beans, dry - $1.59
Bean Sprouts, canned (2) - $1.98
Golden Delicious Apples (2.74 lb) - $2.41
Gala Apples (2.41 lb) - $2.12
Anjou Pears (1.22 lb) - $1.45
Baby Carrots (2 lb) - $1.99
Frozen Vegetables (15 bags of assorted) - $11.85
TOTAL: $23.62
Aldi
Mozzarella, shredded (16 oz) - $2.89
Parmesan Cheese - $1.99
Canola Oil -$2.49
Eggs (3 dzn) - $2.67
Orange Juice Concentrate (2) - $1.98
Apple Juice Concentrate - $.82
Other Juice Concentrate - $1.24
Bananas - $.74
Broccoli - $.99
Cantaloupe (2) - $1.78
French Dressing - $.99
Ranch Dressing - $.99
Iceberg Lettuce - $.99
Bell Peppers, 2 colored - $1.99
Tortillas (2) - $1.98
Graham Crackers - $1.29
Tortilla Chips (2) - $1.98
Wheat Crackers - $1.19
Snack Crackers (2) - $3.58
Pretzels (2) - $2.58
Brown Sugar (2 lb) - $1.24
Baking Powder - $.99
Pancake Syrup - $1.39
Celery - $.99
Taco Mix - $.33
TOTAL: $38.68
-- Day 3 --
Super Wal-Mart
Strawberries (2) - $4.50
Pineapple - $1.98
Cantaloupe - $1.25
Golden Delicious (2.14 lb) - $2.14
Gala Apples (2.47 lb) - $2.47
Thousand Island Dressing - $1.18
Iceberg Lettuce - $1.28
Bananas (5.73 lb) - $3.21
Tomatoes (1.82 lb) - $3.21
Olives, sliced (2) - $2.32
TOTAL: $23.39
WEEKLY TOTAL: $120.07
The monthly total is brought up to $348.82 or $87.20 weekly average. Eegads! Okay, I bought more fruit than usual since my kids are eating more of it. A healthy snack for sure so I am not complaining! It helps the sweet tooth but is better for you. We had company Thursday night (hence the day 3 trip) for dinner. I made taco salad with tortilla bowls and served fruit as a side. It was a huge hit with little leftovers. County Market was having a sale on frozen veggies ($.79 a bag) so I stocked a little. I bought peas, broccoli as well as bell peppers and onion mixes to use in omelettes and dishes when my garden quits producing. Even if I am over the $75 for this week, I came in under what I usually spend. I didn't plan as well, but chalk that up to lack of sleep due to being sick with allergies and a cold.
I did cook up beans for the taco salad last night that helped the 1.5 lbs of taco meat stretch for 12 people. I usually make tortillas, but mine are thicker than store-bought. I needed thinner ones to make the bowls which made dinner fun. The kids loved it. I have made more bread much to my kids delight. The kids love the fresh fruit in the basket on the counter to grab and munch on so I keep a variety in there depending on what is on sale (lots of fruit on sale this time of year). A variety ensures the kiddos aren't bored and eat more of it. I also found baby carrots might cost more, but my kids love them and eat them up. I also find it keeps me snacking healthier too. I still use regular carrots for cooking.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Weekly Menu: September 21-27
Monday
Breakfast: Cinnamon Crumb Coffee Cake, Orange Juice and Milk
Breakfast: Cinnamon Crumb Coffee Cake, Orange Juice and Milk
Snacks: Popcorn and Juice
Dinner: Potato Pancakes, Sausage and Eggs, Applesauce
Tuesday
Breakfast: Breakfast Sandwiches, Juice and Milk
Breakfast: Breakfast Sandwiches, Juice and Milk
Snack: Gelatin with Whipped Topping
Dinner: Cashew Noodle Stir-Fry, Egg Drop Soup, Steamed Broccoli, Fresh Fruit
Wednesday
Breakfast: Strawberry-Cream Muffins, Scrambled Eggs, Juice and Milk
Breakfast: Strawberry-Cream Muffins, Scrambled Eggs, Juice and Milk
Snack: Pudding and Graham Crackers
Dinner: Pita Sandwiches, Chips, Fresh Veggies and Dip
Thursday
Breakfast: French Toast, Fresh Fruit, Strawberry Smoothies
Breakfast: French Toast, Fresh Fruit, Strawberry Smoothies
Snack: Chips and Salsa
Dinner: Taco Salad, Fresh Fruit
Friday
Breakfast: Granola, Fruit, Juice and Milk
Breakfast: Granola, Fruit, Juice and Milk
Snack: Cookies and Milk
Dinner: Zuchinni Lasanga, Ceasar Salad, Garlic Bread
Saturday
Breakfast: Pancakes, Sausage & Eggs, Juice/Milk
Breakfast: Pancakes, Sausage & Eggs, Juice/Milk
Snacks: Available Snacks
Lunch: Leftovers
Dinner: Ham, Sweet Potatoes, Steamed Green Beans, Salad
Sunday
Breakfast: Cold Cereal/Granola, Milk
Snack: Available Snacks
Dinner: Split Pea and Ham Soup, Salad, Rolls
Friday, September 18, 2009
Flexibility and Creativity
I find that being flexible as well as creative in the kitchen very helpful when trying to be frugal. Sometimes those two things come into play for dinner because my brain is so fried I cannot be creative or think so Iam flexibile and serve cold cereal for dinner.
Last night I was proud of myself for being flexible and creative in a good way. It wasn't cold cereal, but rather homemade soup and fresh bread. My original menu called for Beef Stew last night, but I switched it to Chunky Chicken Soup since I had leftover over cooked chicken from the day before. I find leftovers are served best with a bit of a makeover. There was a catch though. I didn't have any of the frozen vegetables called for in the recipe.
In comes creativity and flexibility to save the day. For starters, I did have onions and garlic so I sauteed those as well as 5-6 mushrooms left from Monday's Eggplant Parmesan. So I was getting creative and now I needed to be flexible. I didn't need to cook the chicken as I already had some (also I add meat last since our exchange student is vegetarian). I didn't have the frozen vegetables, but I did have fresh ones. So instead of adding the flour first followed by the broth, I added 3/4 of the broth. Then I put in fresh green beans from my garden. I added chopped carrots and red potatoes (from the co-op this week) as well as a bunch of broccoli, chopped, not used in Wednesday's dinner. I brought the soup to a boil before reducing the heat and simmering until the vegetables were tender. In a mason jar (keep one in my kitchen for this purpose), I put in the remaining broth and flour. I shook it hard (after putting on the lid) until the mixture was well mixed with no lumps. It is so much easier that way. I poured that into the soup as well as a can of kidney beans as I had no white beans. It added some protein for our vegetarian and a nice dash of color. I spooned out enough for our student into a separate pot and then added the chicken I had de-boned and chopped to the pot for the rest of us.
The result of my creativity and flexibility? It was a delicious soup with a side of hot, deliciously sweet soda bread. I was not the only one happy with the result. I like the successes so much more than the flops. Each is a learning experience that helps me be more confident in the kitchen, and my family is used to being my guinea pigs by now.
Last night I was proud of myself for being flexible and creative in a good way. It wasn't cold cereal, but rather homemade soup and fresh bread. My original menu called for Beef Stew last night, but I switched it to Chunky Chicken Soup since I had leftover over cooked chicken from the day before. I find leftovers are served best with a bit of a makeover. There was a catch though. I didn't have any of the frozen vegetables called for in the recipe.
In comes creativity and flexibility to save the day. For starters, I did have onions and garlic so I sauteed those as well as 5-6 mushrooms left from Monday's Eggplant Parmesan. So I was getting creative and now I needed to be flexible. I didn't need to cook the chicken as I already had some (also I add meat last since our exchange student is vegetarian). I didn't have the frozen vegetables, but I did have fresh ones. So instead of adding the flour first followed by the broth, I added 3/4 of the broth. Then I put in fresh green beans from my garden. I added chopped carrots and red potatoes (from the co-op this week) as well as a bunch of broccoli, chopped, not used in Wednesday's dinner. I brought the soup to a boil before reducing the heat and simmering until the vegetables were tender. In a mason jar (keep one in my kitchen for this purpose), I put in the remaining broth and flour. I shook it hard (after putting on the lid) until the mixture was well mixed with no lumps. It is so much easier that way. I poured that into the soup as well as a can of kidney beans as I had no white beans. It added some protein for our vegetarian and a nice dash of color. I spooned out enough for our student into a separate pot and then added the chicken I had de-boned and chopped to the pot for the rest of us.
The result of my creativity and flexibility? It was a delicious soup with a side of hot, deliciously sweet soda bread. I was not the only one happy with the result. I like the successes so much more than the flops. Each is a learning experience that helps me be more confident in the kitchen, and my family is used to being my guinea pigs by now.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
$75 Challenge Week 3
So far so good, I think. Let me add the totals first. Wednesday is shopping day, but little is on my grocery list. That doesn't mean much though. My garden is in overdrive, and I have pick up from the farmer's co-op I am participating in this summer/fall. I had signed up for it back in April.
Grocery purchases (not including tax):
Carrots (2 lb) - $1.29
Broccoli - $2.97
Romaine Lettuce - $1.99
Gala Apples (2.22 lbs) - $2.22
Golden Delicious Apples (1.84 lbs) - $2.30
Weekly Total is $70.49 plus 1% tax: $71.19
The Monthly Total so far is $228.75 or $76.37 averaged over 3 weeks. I bought more than was on my list like the sweet potatoes and melons from a farmer's stand. I also splurged on 2 half pints of ice cream for hubby and I to enjoy after the kids were in bed.
Grocery purchases (not including tax):
Carrots (2 lb) - $1.29
Broccoli - $2.97
Romaine Lettuce - $1.99
Gala Apples (2.22 lbs) - $2.22
Golden Delicious Apples (1.84 lbs) - $2.30
Bananas (8+ lbs) - $4.82
Red Seedless Grapes (6.47 lbs) - $6.47
Seedless Watermelon - $4.00
Muskmelon - $2.50
Sweet Potatoes - $1.75
Ketchup - $1.15
Peanut Butter (40 oz) - $3.67
Powdered Sugar (2 lb) - $1.24
Wheat Crackers - $1.98
Wheat Thins - $1.29
Pretzels (2) - $2.58
Orange Juice Concentrate (3) - $2.97
Apple Juice Concentrate - $ .82
Assorted Juice Concentrate (2) - $2.48
Eggs (4 dozen) - $3.52
Cheddar Cheese, shredded - $2.89
Colby Cheese (8 oz) - $1.49
Sour Cream - $1.06
Soy Milk (4 half gallon) - $11.04
Ice Cream (2 half pints) - $2.00Weekly Total is $70.49 plus 1% tax: $71.19
The Monthly Total so far is $228.75 or $76.37 averaged over 3 weeks. I bought more than was on my list like the sweet potatoes and melons from a farmer's stand. I also splurged on 2 half pints of ice cream for hubby and I to enjoy after the kids were in bed.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Weekly Menu: September 14-20
A day (or two) late but hopefully not a dollar short ...
Monday
Breakfast: Banana Muffins, Milk
Breakfast: Banana Muffins, Milk
Snacks: Available Snacks
Dinner: Eggplant Parmesan, Spinach-Carrot Salad, Fruit, Rice Krispie Treats
Tuesday
Breakfast: Waffles, Juice/Milk
Breakfast: Waffles, Juice/Milk
Snack: Available Snacks
Dinner: Taco Baked Potatoes, Salad
Wednesday
Breakfast: Biscuits and Sausage Gravy, Fruit, Milk
Breakfast: Biscuits and Sausage Gravy, Fruit, Milk
Snack: Apples and Caramel
Dinner: Baked Chicken, Squash, Cucumber Salad, Steamed Broccoli
Thursday
Breakfast: Muffins, Fruit, Milk
Breakfast: Muffins, Fruit, Milk
Snack: Cheese and Crackers, Grapes
Dinner: Chunky Chicken Soup, Salad, Soda Bread
Friday
Breakfast: Breakfast Burritos, Fruit, Juice/Milk
Breakfast: Breakfast Burritos, Fruit, Juice/Milk
Snack: Baked Pretzels, Juice
Dinner: Fried Rabbit, Mashed Potatoes, Pickled Beets, Carrot-Pineapple Salad
Saturday
Breakfast: Pancakes, Sausage & Eggs, Juice/Milk
Breakfast: Pancakes, Sausage & Eggs, Juice/Milk
Snacks: Zuchinni Bread, Milk
Lunch: Leftovers
Dinner: Split Pea and Ham Soup, Salad, Rolls
Sunday
Breakfast: Cold Cereal/Granola, Milk
Snack: Available Snacks
Dinner: Sour Cream Enchiladas, Refried Beans, Soutwestern Corn Salad
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
$75 Challenge Update -- Week 2
Monday I went shopping for some needs for a few of the kids. While at the store, I grabbed 6 ears of corn and a seedless watermelon. A seeded watermelon will go to waste here while a seedless lasts maybe two days. Funny kids! oh yeah, I bought some fresh dill to make some dill pickles with yet more cucumbers from our garden. I had to get more eggs because I guess I underestimated my family. They finished off the 5 dozen in a week. The kids' had a pool party, and I made some more Munchie Mix. They also finished off our huge batch in a week as well - the oinkers!
The Week's Grocery Bill
Fresh Dill - $2.92
Watermelon - $2.88
Corn Ears (6) - $1.25
Cantaloupe - $1.49
Green Peppers(2)- $1.49
Spinach - $1.99
Mushrooms - $1.29
Baking Potatoes (10 lb) - $5.98
Orange Juice Concentrate(2) -$1.98
Apple Juice Concentrate - $.82
Assorted Juice Concentrates (3) - $3.72
Frozen Peas - $.95
Eggs (2 dozen) - $1.96
Mozzarella Cheese - $2.89
Parmesan Cheese - $1.99
Canola Oil - $2.49
Flour (2) - $3.28
Pretzels (2) - $2.58
Saltines - $.89
Lemon-Lime Soda (2 lt) - $.69
TOTAL: $43.91
Total cost of ingredients for second batch of Munchie Mix : $21.74. Overall monthly total is now $158.26. That divides out to $79.13 each week. It's getting closer to my challenge limit. That second batch of Munchie Mix put me over ... Darnit! At least I am better than my usual grocery bill even with it on (twice) ... I've cut my grocery spending in half!
The Week's Grocery Bill
Fresh Dill - $2.92
Watermelon - $2.88
Corn Ears (6) - $1.25
Cantaloupe - $1.49
Green Peppers(2)- $1.49
Spinach - $1.99
Mushrooms - $1.29
Baking Potatoes (10 lb) - $5.98
Orange Juice Concentrate(2) -$1.98
Apple Juice Concentrate - $.82
Assorted Juice Concentrates (3) - $3.72
Frozen Peas - $.95
Eggs (2 dozen) - $1.96
Mozzarella Cheese - $2.89
Parmesan Cheese - $1.99
Canola Oil - $2.49
Flour (2) - $3.28
Pretzels (2) - $2.58
Saltines - $.89
Lemon-Lime Soda (2 lt) - $.69
TOTAL: $43.91
Total cost of ingredients for second batch of Munchie Mix : $21.74. Overall monthly total is now $158.26. That divides out to $79.13 each week. It's getting closer to my challenge limit. That second batch of Munchie Mix put me over ... Darnit! At least I am better than my usual grocery bill even with it on (twice) ... I've cut my grocery spending in half!
Monday, September 7, 2009
Cinnamon Coffee Cake
This was a hit with the family and came together quickly and easily. That is three out of three! Dh says it is a keeper. Of course, I doubled the recipe putting it in a 9x13-inch dish. There were not even enough crumbs for a mouse let alone a picture. I served the coffee cake with scrambled eggs, tomato and cheese slices, milk and apple juice.
CINNAMON COFFEE CAKE
Cook Time: 30 minutes
INGREDIENTS
Topping
•1/2 cup brown sugar
•1/4 cup sifted all-purpose flour (sift before measuring)
•1/4 cup butter, room temperature
•1 teaspoon cinnamon
Cake
•1 1/2 cups sifted all-purpose flour (sift before measuring)
•2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
•1/2 teaspoon salt
•1 egg, beaten
•3/4 cup sugar
•1/3 cup melted butter
•1/2 cup milk
•1 teaspoon vanilla extract
DIRECTIONS
Topping: In small mixing bowl, combine topping ingredients. Blend with fork until crumbly. Set aside.
Cake: Sift 1 1/2 cups sifted flour with baking powder and salt into a bowl. In a medium bowl, beat together beaten egg and 3/4 cup sugar and 1/3 cup melted butter. Add milk and vanilla. Stir in flour mixture and mix well. Pour batter into a greased and floured 8-inch square or 9-inch layer-cake pan. Sprinkle topping crumb mixture evenly over batter. Bake at 375° for 25 to 30 minutes, or until cake tests done. Partially cool in pan on wire rack. Cut coffee cake into squares while still warm.
CINNAMON COFFEE CAKE
Cook Time: 30 minutes
INGREDIENTS
Topping
•1/2 cup brown sugar
•1/4 cup sifted all-purpose flour (sift before measuring)
•1/4 cup butter, room temperature
•1 teaspoon cinnamon
Cake
•1 1/2 cups sifted all-purpose flour (sift before measuring)
•2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
•1/2 teaspoon salt
•1 egg, beaten
•3/4 cup sugar
•1/3 cup melted butter
•1/2 cup milk
•1 teaspoon vanilla extract
DIRECTIONS
Topping: In small mixing bowl, combine topping ingredients. Blend with fork until crumbly. Set aside.
Cake: Sift 1 1/2 cups sifted flour with baking powder and salt into a bowl. In a medium bowl, beat together beaten egg and 3/4 cup sugar and 1/3 cup melted butter. Add milk and vanilla. Stir in flour mixture and mix well. Pour batter into a greased and floured 8-inch square or 9-inch layer-cake pan. Sprinkle topping crumb mixture evenly over batter. Bake at 375° for 25 to 30 minutes, or until cake tests done. Partially cool in pan on wire rack. Cut coffee cake into squares while still warm.
Friday, September 4, 2009
Weekly Menu: September 7-13
The way my week works is that I have a fabulous plan in place. Then life happens. Life seems to happen a lot around here. My fabulous plan gets re-arranged, meals get bumped to the next week or omitted completely. I can take consolance in the fact, that is less shopping for next week. I am already prepared or at least until life happens again and reminds me who really is in charge - and it isn't me!
Monday
Breakfast: Cinnamon Coffee Cake, Scrambled Eggs, Juice/Milk
Breakfast: Cinnamon Coffee Cake, Scrambled Eggs, Juice/Milk
Snacks: Available Snacks
Dinner: Foil Dinners, Tossed Salad
Tuesday
Breakfast: Muffins, Fruit, Juice/Milk
Breakfast: Muffins, Fruit, Juice/Milk
Snack: Nachos
Dinner: Pizza Rolls, Ceasar Salad, Green Beans
Wednesday
Breakfast: Granola, Milk, Fruit
Breakfast: Granola, Milk, Fruit
Snack: Cinnamon Toast, Cantaloupe Cubes
Dinner: Fajitas, Spanish Rice, Refried Beans
Thursday
Breakfast: French Toast, Ham Slices, Fruit, Juice/Milk
Breakfast: French Toast, Ham Slices, Fruit, Juice/Milk
Snack: Gelatin with Whipped Topping
Dinner: Meatloaf, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans, Carrot-Pineapple Salad
Friday
Breakfast: Biscuits and Gravy, Fruit, Juice/Milk
Breakfast: Biscuits and Gravy, Fruit, Juice/Milk
Snack: Baked Pretzels
Dinner: White Bean-Spinach Soup, Ceasar Salad, French Bread
Saturday
Breakfast: Pancakes, Sausage & Eggs, Juice/Milk
Breakfast: Pancakes, Sausage & Eggs, Juice/Milk
Snacks: Available Snacks
Lunch: Leftovers
Dinner: Eggplant Parmesan, Green Salad, Peas & Carrots
Sunday
Breakfast: Cold Cereal/Granola, Milk
Snack: Available Snacks
Dinner: Baked Potato Bar
$75 Challenge Update
I went shopping last (again!). One child needed a birthday for a friend. Another needed something for school. I ran out of yet something else. While there I bought some more food. My exchange student, Jana, volunteered to make dinner for me. She is not much of a cook, but very helpful and kind. She received a recipe from her mother so wanted to make it for us. I had to buy the ingredients we didn't have (or not enough of). What sane mother would pass up the chance to put her feet up and not cook?!
What I purchased for a total of $5.87:
10 lbs russet potatoes -$2.77
Can of Sauerkraut - $.64
Can of Kidney Beans - $.82
2 lbs Carrots - $1.58
I forgot the canned beets (it had been a very long day by the time I got to the store) so that will up the weekly total as well.
Monthly Grocery Bill Total: $ 92.51
What I purchased for a total of $5.87:
10 lbs russet potatoes -$2.77
Can of Sauerkraut - $.64
Can of Kidney Beans - $.82
2 lbs Carrots - $1.58
I forgot the canned beets (it had been a very long day by the time I got to the store) so that will up the weekly total as well.
Monthly Grocery Bill Total: $ 92.51
Munchie Mix Recipe
I'm a day late. I could give you the reasons and let you know how my day went yesterday, but that would take up my entire post, and there are others with just as hectic or moreso schedules. Today is promising to be more of the same.
The Trail Mix recipe was a hit. It makes an enormous amount (over a gallon) even by my family's standards. The kids loved it. Allergy-sufferers can pick out the ingredients they cannot eat. Some of my kids will not eat nuts while others will not eat raisins. There doesn't seem to be that problem with the chocolate candies. A person visiting after snack would find bowls or baggies with the remains of unwanted mix parts. When hubby gets home, he finishes off the ones with the nuts left. It all gets eaten. Pizza toppings work the same way in my house. It sounds like an auction at dinner on pizza night.
I found the Trail Mix recipe in an e-mail I received from Taste of Home this month. I tweaked it for my family and to save costs. I used larger packages than called for in the original recipe (i.e. 19 ounce bag of M&Ms instead of 14 ounces). I purchased the raisins in a 25-ounce container and used the leftover for cinnamon-raisin bread for breakfast the next morning. Instead of the mixed nuts called for in the original recipe, I bought the same amount for less money in cashew pieces and unsalted, roasted peanuts. It saved money not to mention cut back the salt. The cashew and peanuts are what gets picked out the nut mix anyway. I deleted the granola (without raisins) called for in the original recipe. It saved money, and I forgot to make some homemade before making this. That saves time too. The mix was still good, and this is what I came up with after all my edits ...
Munchie Mix
Serving size: 3/4 cup
4-1/2 cups nuts (cashews and peanuts used)
1 package (17 ounces) raisins
1 package (19 ounces) peanut M&Ms
1 package (19 ounces) milk chocolate M&Ms
1 package (17 ounces) Honey-Nut Cheerios
1 package (13 ounces) Cheerios
The Trail Mix recipe was a hit. It makes an enormous amount (over a gallon) even by my family's standards. The kids loved it. Allergy-sufferers can pick out the ingredients they cannot eat. Some of my kids will not eat nuts while others will not eat raisins. There doesn't seem to be that problem with the chocolate candies. A person visiting after snack would find bowls or baggies with the remains of unwanted mix parts. When hubby gets home, he finishes off the ones with the nuts left. It all gets eaten. Pizza toppings work the same way in my house. It sounds like an auction at dinner on pizza night.
I found the Trail Mix recipe in an e-mail I received from Taste of Home this month. I tweaked it for my family and to save costs. I used larger packages than called for in the original recipe (i.e. 19 ounce bag of M&Ms instead of 14 ounces). I purchased the raisins in a 25-ounce container and used the leftover for cinnamon-raisin bread for breakfast the next morning. Instead of the mixed nuts called for in the original recipe, I bought the same amount for less money in cashew pieces and unsalted, roasted peanuts. It saved money not to mention cut back the salt. The cashew and peanuts are what gets picked out the nut mix anyway. I deleted the granola (without raisins) called for in the original recipe. It saved money, and I forgot to make some homemade before making this. That saves time too. The mix was still good, and this is what I came up with after all my edits ...
Munchie MixServing size: 3/4 cup
4-1/2 cups nuts (cashews and peanuts used)
1 package (17 ounces) raisins
1 package (19 ounces) peanut M&Ms
1 package (19 ounces) milk chocolate M&Ms
1 package (17 ounces) Honey-Nut Cheerios
1 package (13 ounces) Cheerios
Directions: In a large bowl, combine all ingredients. Store in a covered container or large resealable plastic bags. Makes 5+ quarts.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
$75 Challenge
I was looking up one thing and just kept clicking links until I ended up here. As I was reading through the blog, I found the $75 Challenge. I was game. I enjoy things like that, the things that bore my hubby to tears to discuss or make my children roll their eyes. I am just waiting until they end up just like me.
A challenge ... hmmm. I like a good challenge especially one involving saving money. Hubby likes saving money too even more when I manage to do it although he claims that I spend money to save money. So back to the challenge and setting my rules for myself...
We are a family of 10 (two adults and 8 children ranging in age from almost two to 17 years old). There are some dietary concerns as the youngest is allergic to dairy, eggs and red dye. The 17 year old (our exchange student) is allergic to chocolate as well as a vegetarian. Food costs alone run about $150 a week not including the raw milk we get from a dairy and our SHARE Foods units we buy once a month. Those two things will run $90-$110 a month. I also participate in a farm co-op where I get fresh produce bi-weekly. I already paid for that back in April. With that as my guideline and basis, I have decided on taking the challenge name at face value. My goal is $75 a week spent on groceries. Of course, I am always free to spend less as I am sure hubby would like to remind me.
WEEK ONE
I started off the week with good intentions. I made a menu for the family, and one where they would not ask if I was cutting back on the budget. (I started on Tuesday as that was the beginning of the month for the challenge.) Weekday lunches are just leftovers or sandwiches as it is just Eric and I at home now school is in session. Available Snacks are ones that I always keep on hand. They include pretzels, animal crackers, fruit, microwave popcorn and leftovers from breakfast/previous snacks (if any).
Tuesday (1st)
Breaskfast: Berry Crumb Bars, Hot Chocolate
Snack: Available Snacks
Dinner: Ziploc Chicken, Fried Potatoes, Baked Beans, Watermelon, Broccoli (had company for dinner)
Wednesday (2nd)
Breakfast: French Toast, Scrambled Eggs with Ham, Bananas, Juice
Snack: Trail Mix
Dinner: Leftovers
Thursday (3rd)
Breakfast: Cinnamon-Raisin Bread, Fruit, Milk/Hot Cocoa
Snack: Cheese Nachos
Dinner: Meatloaf, Mashed Potatoes, Broccoli, Peaches
Friday (4th)
Breakfast: Breakfast Burritos, Fruit, Juice/Milk
Snack: Rice Krispie Treats
Dinner: Crockpot Chicken Enchiladas, Spanish Rice, Refried Beans, Fresh Fruit
Saturday (5th)
Breakfast: Pancakes, Sausage, Juice/Milk
Snacks: Available Snacks
Lunch: Leftovers
Dinner: Homemade Pizza, Ceasar Salad, Breadsticks
Sunday (6th)
Breakfast: Cold Cereal/Granola
Snacks: Available Snacks
Dinner: Grilled Cheese, Tomato Soup, Fresh Fruit and Veggie Tray
So there is the menu for the week. I made my grocery list and did the shopping. How did I fare?
What I bought:
5 dozen eggs - $5.78
Half gallon soy milk (2) - $5.52
Baked Beans (2) - $ 2.44
Tomato Soup (4) - $ 2.40
Mandarin Oranges (15 oz)- $ .72
Roasted Peanuts (16 oz) - $2.68
Canola Oil (3 qt) - $2.84
Raisins (25 oz) - $2.58
Cashews (16 oz) - $4.48
Cheddar Cheese Soup (2) - $2.88
Orange Juice Concentrate (2) - $2.36
Cinnamon - $ .50
Vegetable Broth (5) - $5.00
Pineapple Chunks (20 oz)- $1.08
Cheddar Cheese (2 lb) - $5.98
Broccoli Cuts (1 lb) - $1.87
Apple Juice Concentrate (2) - $2.26
Apple-Cherry Juice Concentrate (2) -$2.54
Wheat Gluten - $1.84
Bananas (5 lbs) - $2.93
Generic Cheerios - $1.84
Generic Honey-Nut Cheerios - $1.98
Generic Rice Krispies - $2.34
Regular M&Ms (19 oz) - $3.98
Peanut M&Ms (19 oz) - $3.98
Tortilla Chips (2) - $4.00
Romaine Lettuce (2 heads) - $3.00
Miniature Marshmallows - $ .92
Total (with tax added): $81.51
I had to make a run to a second store for forgotten tomato paste. I bought 4 12-oz cans for a total of $4.40. That brings the total grocery bill to $85.91.
Tomorrow I will post some of the recipes for my menu items ...
A challenge ... hmmm. I like a good challenge especially one involving saving money. Hubby likes saving money too even more when I manage to do it although he claims that I spend money to save money. So back to the challenge and setting my rules for myself...
We are a family of 10 (two adults and 8 children ranging in age from almost two to 17 years old). There are some dietary concerns as the youngest is allergic to dairy, eggs and red dye. The 17 year old (our exchange student) is allergic to chocolate as well as a vegetarian. Food costs alone run about $150 a week not including the raw milk we get from a dairy and our SHARE Foods units we buy once a month. Those two things will run $90-$110 a month. I also participate in a farm co-op where I get fresh produce bi-weekly. I already paid for that back in April. With that as my guideline and basis, I have decided on taking the challenge name at face value. My goal is $75 a week spent on groceries. Of course, I am always free to spend less as I am sure hubby would like to remind me.
WEEK ONE
I started off the week with good intentions. I made a menu for the family, and one where they would not ask if I was cutting back on the budget. (I started on Tuesday as that was the beginning of the month for the challenge.) Weekday lunches are just leftovers or sandwiches as it is just Eric and I at home now school is in session. Available Snacks are ones that I always keep on hand. They include pretzels, animal crackers, fruit, microwave popcorn and leftovers from breakfast/previous snacks (if any).
Tuesday (1st)
Breaskfast: Berry Crumb Bars, Hot Chocolate
Snack: Available Snacks
Dinner: Ziploc Chicken, Fried Potatoes, Baked Beans, Watermelon, Broccoli (had company for dinner)
Wednesday (2nd)
Breakfast: French Toast, Scrambled Eggs with Ham, Bananas, Juice
Snack: Trail Mix
Dinner: Leftovers
Thursday (3rd)
Breakfast: Cinnamon-Raisin Bread, Fruit, Milk/Hot Cocoa
Snack: Cheese Nachos
Dinner: Meatloaf, Mashed Potatoes, Broccoli, Peaches
Friday (4th)
Breakfast: Breakfast Burritos, Fruit, Juice/Milk
Snack: Rice Krispie Treats
Dinner: Crockpot Chicken Enchiladas, Spanish Rice, Refried Beans, Fresh Fruit
Saturday (5th)
Breakfast: Pancakes, Sausage, Juice/Milk
Snacks: Available Snacks
Lunch: Leftovers
Dinner: Homemade Pizza, Ceasar Salad, Breadsticks
Sunday (6th)
Breakfast: Cold Cereal/Granola
Snacks: Available Snacks
Dinner: Grilled Cheese, Tomato Soup, Fresh Fruit and Veggie Tray
So there is the menu for the week. I made my grocery list and did the shopping. How did I fare?
What I bought:
5 dozen eggs - $5.78
Half gallon soy milk (2) - $5.52
Baked Beans (2) - $ 2.44
Tomato Soup (4) - $ 2.40
Mandarin Oranges (15 oz)- $ .72
Roasted Peanuts (16 oz) - $2.68
Canola Oil (3 qt) - $2.84
Raisins (25 oz) - $2.58
Cashews (16 oz) - $4.48
Cheddar Cheese Soup (2) - $2.88
Orange Juice Concentrate (2) - $2.36
Cinnamon - $ .50
Vegetable Broth (5) - $5.00
Pineapple Chunks (20 oz)- $1.08
Cheddar Cheese (2 lb) - $5.98
Broccoli Cuts (1 lb) - $1.87
Apple Juice Concentrate (2) - $2.26
Apple-Cherry Juice Concentrate (2) -$2.54
Wheat Gluten - $1.84
Bananas (5 lbs) - $2.93
Generic Cheerios - $1.84
Generic Honey-Nut Cheerios - $1.98
Generic Rice Krispies - $2.34
Regular M&Ms (19 oz) - $3.98
Peanut M&Ms (19 oz) - $3.98
Tortilla Chips (2) - $4.00
Romaine Lettuce (2 heads) - $3.00
Miniature Marshmallows - $ .92
Total (with tax added): $81.51
I had to make a run to a second store for forgotten tomato paste. I bought 4 12-oz cans for a total of $4.40. That brings the total grocery bill to $85.91.
I have a garden and freezer full of meat (bought a side of beef a couple of months ago). My pantry shelves are kind of sparce of canned goods although I have plenty of spices and herbs as well as the basics like flour, pasta, rice and beans. That is why you will not see certain items plus with what I get at the co-op and SHARE in conjunction with my garden.
The tomato paste was to make pizza sauce (with tomatoes from my garden) for Saturday with extra pints canned for a later). The trail mix recipe makes enough to store half for next week. The eggs and cheese will last into next week. Those items were the higher cost items on my list so I don't expect my grocery to be as high next week. So yes, I spent more than $75 this week, but I am hoping it will average out.
Tomorrow I will post some of the recipes for my menu items ...