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Overworked? Overwhelmed? Have more month than money? You’re in the right place. I’m the Coupon Queen, aka Momma, here with answers on how to survive and thrive without losing your mind… or going hungry. Financial fundamentals for the perpetually exhausted.
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October 7, 2024Jump to Recipe
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Alright, I’m just gonna come out and own it. My whole interest in omurice started when I played Tales of Graces. Rice Omelette being Hubert’s favorite food and me wondering what the heck a rice omelette was. So naturally, I combed the internet and found Omurice splashed all over the place.
And immediately went… uh what?
Because the tomato sauce featured on the omelette is ketchup based. Nothing against people who like ketchup on their eggs, but I am not such a person. However. In light of trying to be open minded, I scoured for a recipe, made a batch and uh…
IT IS SO SO GOOD!
I’m still working on perfecting the football shape, but I think I’ve got the recipe down now. The best part is, you can absolutely use leftover rice (or fried rice) to make it. If you’ve got stray ketchup and soy sauce packets floating around your kitchen? Even better. I’m not proposing you raid your local fast food joint for their condiment packets, but I am saying that I’ve been given so many in the past that I’m getting overrun.
The last time I made my own omurice, I happened to have about 4 ounces of ground chicken left from making meatballs, and a couple of stray mushrooms that hadn’t quite fit in the pan when making mushroom gravy. Also half a container of rice left from takeout night. Ergo, my version of omurice using leftovers.
Behold, Momma’s Omurice, perfect for eating with a crisp salad and a bowl of miso soup. Understand, like many frugal meals, there’s not a super set recipe, or if there is, I’ve yet to discern it. Rather it’s a convenient use it up sort of meal, so feel free to get creative with your own version.
Eat well, Momma
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OmuriceRecipe by HRM Coupon QueenCourse: MainCuisine: JapaneseDifficulty: EasyServings2servingsPrep time5minutesCooking time10minutesIngredientsFried Rice2 cups cooked rice (see notes)1/2 cup peas1/2 cup diced carrots1/2 cup diced onion4 sliced mushrooms (see notes)4 oz ground chicken (see notes)2 T vegetable oilSauce2 T soy sauce2 T ketchup1 T tomato paste2 T warm waterOmelette4 large eggs2 T milk1 T butterDirectionsMake the tomato sauce by mixing the soy sauce, ketchup, tomato paste and warm water together.Heat 1T oil in large skillet or wok. Cook chicken until no longer pink over medium heat.Add remaining tablespoon of oil to skillet/wok. Heat oil then add onions, mushrooms and carrots. Cook 2-4 minutes until onions begin to become translucent.Add peas and cooked rice to skillet. (Or the rice/peas/carrots if using tip in notes.) Break up any clumps in the rice.Add mixed tomato sauce to the rice, reserving a tablespoon or so for a top garnish.Salt and pepper to taste, then continue to cook an additional 2-4 minutes until rice is fully warmed and mixture is well combined. Set rice to the side while preparing omelette.In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and milk together, until well combined.Melt butter in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Make sure bottom is fully coated.Gently cook the eggs, pushing the edges towards the middle, and allowing the uncooked egg to run to the edges. This creates a fluffy omeletteWhen the eggs are mostly set, but still look a little moist in the middle, add the rice to the center of the eggs in a line. The eggs will continue to finish cooking with the residual heat.Fold the edges of the eggs over the rice to envelop it, then slide the omelette onto a plate, seam side down.Garnish with reserved tomato sauce and enjoy!
Notes
You will want your rice to be cold. Leftover rice is best for this. If the rice is warm when you try to fry it, it will just turn to mush.A quick and easy shortcut to the fried rice is to cook the rice with a cup of frozen peas and carrots blend. (Like the day before). Shove the rice in the fridge until you ‘re ready to make the fried rice.The mushrooms are of course optional, but I had them at the time and I find them tasty. Omit if you dislike them or don’t have any on hand.I used ground chicken because it’s what I had at hand that needed to be used up. Feel free to substitute any protein you like, cooked or uncooked.
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May 1, 2024April showers may bring May flowers, but flowers aren’t the only stars arriving in May. As springtime marches towards summer, more produce becomes available, including a bevy of spring lettuces. It’s the perfect time for the addition of tasty herbs as well, which can be stored by drying or freezing.
Here’s what’s in season in the month of May:
VegetablesFruitsHerbsArtichokesApricotsBasilAsparagusCherriesCilantroCarrotsMangoesDillLettucePineapplesParsleyPeasRhubarbRadishesStrawberriesSpinach
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April 13, 2024Jump to Recipe
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I know, I know. Everyone hates the backstory of a recipe. Just gimme a Jump to Recipe button. (Which btw I have done.) But indulge me a little please. This one’s important.
When I was little, my Granny still had (and used) an old-fashioned wood burning stove to cook with. She had one of the modern varieties too, but I was always impressed with the idea of loading in wood to cook. My awe tripled the day I scuttled into her house and saw the top of the wood-burner adorned with a row of loaves of bread. Not the stuff in plastic sleeves, but genuine fresh baked bread. After being told to “Get in there and cut yourself a piece if you want some,” I did just that and encountered the most amazing bread I have ever tasted in my life. It was light and fluffy and slightly sweet, the tops were flaky and not that icky stuff that ruined a good slice of sandwich bread. I think that moment may have launched my fascination with cooking. Who knew you could make something so amazing for yourself?
Being a very sensible 8-year old child at the time, I asked her how to make this marvelous miracle. “Oh it ain’t hard,” she replied. “You just feed it sugar and potato flakes.” So I left it at that, intending to find out the real recipe later, because it was summer and I wanted to play in the yard with my cousins.
I spent years trying to figure out that recipe. I knew she fed it with “sugar and potato flakes”, but beyond that, I never could be bothered to ask more. Too wrapped up in my own life, I kept vowing I’d ask her for that recipe someday. It’s one of my greatest regrets that I kept putting off asking her until it was too late.
So, I found myself stuck trying to muddle it out on my own. Naturally, I scoured my copy of the family cookbook but the recipe isn’t in there. I tried asking some of the family and and none of them had it either. Which left me only one recourse: Check the Internet.
This was the very early days of the internet when AOL was still the new hot thing. Dial up was the only option to get online and Alta Vista was my search engine of choice. I spent hours slogging through dead ends. Found a reference to Amish Friendship Bread, the kind that goes in a ziplock and gets squished around aaaaaand that was not it either.
At this point, I was very frustrated and determined the only way to bake the bread was to start experimenting for myself. It was an adventure, with any number of terrible results… everything from bread-rocks to the tartest sourdough you could possibly imagine.
After ten years of searching, and fuming, and failures, I finally mastered the recipe. I had three loaves of soft, melt-in-your-mouth bread with just a hint of sweetness and light, buttery, flaky crusts that threw me back into Granny’s kitchen. I was a little girl in awe again. Every time I make this bread, I think of her, and keep the memory alive. I think she’d like that.
Fair warning: this is not a true sourdough. Nor is it any exact sort of any other sweet bread either. This is trial and error. It’s bread made of memories and love.
Don’t let the wait times or list of ingredients throw you. It’s really not nearly as complex as it looks, and I wonder how I managed to botch it for so very long.
Sourdough Starter: Mix 3 T. dry yeast (or 3 packages) with 1 cup warm water. Cover and allow to rest in the fridge for 2-5 days. Feed every 3 to 5 days. Five days seems to work best for me.
Sourdough Feed: Mix 1 cup warm water with 1/2 cup sugar and 1/4 cup potato flakes. Once combined, add to starter. Cover loosely so gasses can escape and set in a warm place to rest for 12 hours. Personally, I find it easiest to do this first thing in the morning the day before I’m going to bake.
Note: Sometimes the starter will be sluggish and lazy. If you experience a sloth for a starter that just refuses to wake up and bubble, an additional tablespoon of yeast may be necessary to add. Especially if you need the bread in short order and you don’t have time to wait on additional feeds to punt the starter out of bed.
Sourdough Bread:
This is where wait times can be intimidating again. Don’t be scared. If you followed my advice about feeding the starter in the morning, this couldn’t be easier. You’re going to mix your dough up and leave it to rise, then go to bed. Nothing could be easier!
6 c. flour (preferrably bread flour)
1 c. fed sourdough starter (return the rest to the fridge)
1/4 c. sugar
1/2 c. oil (I prefer olive, but vegetable works too)
1 tsp. salt
1 1/2 c. warm water
Mix all ingredients together. Do not overmix, it makes for tough, nasty bread. (Believe me, I know) The dough will be fairly wet compared to other recipes you might be used to. Pour a drizzle of additional oil over the top of the dough, ensuring every exposed portion is coated. Then flip it over and use the oil to grease the entire bowl. You’ll want to make sure all the dough has a light covering to prevent it drying out and sticking. Cover lightly either with waxed paper or parchment paper. You could use a clean cloth towel for this, if you don’t mind a little dough sticking. Put the dough somewhere warm. LEAVE IT ALONE OVERNIGHT. Don’t poke it, prod it, or disturb it. Just go to bed, enjoy some sweet slumber and go back to it in the morning.
In the morning, flip the raised dough onto a lightly floured surface. Using a sharp knife, divide the dough into thirds. Knead each loaf 8-10 times or until the dough is elastic. It happens quickly, so don’t over-knead. Place dough into three greased loaf pans. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 4-5 hours.
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Bake bread for 30 to 35 minutes or until the crusts are a light golden color. Brush with a little melted butter if you like. (I certainly do!) Then take the loaves out and let them cool on a wire rack. If you don’t have a wire rack, still get them out of the pans and let them cool on a non-stick surface. Leaving them in the pans will make for soggy bread.
Enjoy these bundles of Heaven for the mouth. I don’t think they need a blessed thing on them to taste amazing. However, a dab of salted butter, apple butter, or my spiced apple jelly are favorites in this house.
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Granny’s Sweet Sourdough BreadRecipe by HRM Coupon QueenCourse: BreadDifficulty: ModerateServings3loavesCooking time30minutesNot truly a sourdough, though it’s fed like one, this bread is lightly sweet. The best approximation I’ve been able to find to my Granny’s delicious recipe.IngredientsStarter1 cup warm water3 T. active yeastStarter Feed1 cup warm water1/2 cup sugar1/4 cup potato flakesBread Dough6 cups flour (all purpose or bread flour)1 cup fed sourdough starter1/4 cup sugar1/2 cup oil1 tsp salt1 1/2 cups warm waterDirectionsStarterMix yeast and warm water in a jar or large bowlCover starter and place in the fridge for 2-5 days. For a first batch, day 2 or 3 is best.Feed starter every 3-5 days.Starter FeedMix the warm water with potato flakes and sugar.Add water mix to starter.Cover and let rise in a warm place for 12 hours.Bread Dough thru First RiseMeasure out flour into a large mixing bowl. Make a well in the flour.In a separate bowl, mix remaining ingredients until well combined.Pour wet ingredients into the flour well.Mix dough until all is just combined. Do Not Overmix. It will be somewhat sticky.Drizzle a light coating of oil over the dough, then flip dough to grease the rising bowl. Flip dough back over.Lightly cover the bowl and place in a warm place 8 hours, or overnight. Zzzzzz!Second RiseLightly grease 3 loaf pans.Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface.With a sharp knife or bench cutter, divide dough into three even portions.Knead each loaf 8-10 times or until it becomes elastic. Do not overknead.Gently shape each dough into a log and place in loaf pan.You guessed it! Cover and let rise in a warm place for 3-4 hours or until doubled in size.The BakeIf your dough is in the oven rising, take the pans out. Please. I beg you.Preheat oven to 350 degrees Celsius.When oven is hot, loaf pans inside oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until bread is golden brown.Option: Slather the tops of the bread with melted butter.Turn bread out onto cooling racks.Try to wait until bread cools before cutting into it. But if you can’t, that’s okay!
Notes
If the starter is behaving sluggish and not bubbling, you can continue to feed it in smaller amounts over subsequent days until it’s fully active.Alternatively if the starter is sluggish and you really need to bake the bread, an extra tablespoon of yeast can be added to the starter on feed day.The benefit of these long feeds and rises is that it allows you to do other things with your day, like work or sleep.I choose to use olive oil in the bread, though I’m quite sure Granny never had a lick of it in her house. Even using Extra Virgin Olive Oil, the taste is not impacted.
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April 5, 2024Hey there, aspiring garden gurus! If you’re itching to dip your toes into the wonderful world of gardening but don’t want to break the bank, then you’re in for a treat. Momma’s here to spill the beans (and the seeds) on the best edible plants for beginner gardeners (while sticking to a budget). Get ready to flex those green thumbs and feast your eyes on these easy-to-grow, cost-effective wonders!
1. Tomatoes
Ah, the humble tomato – a staple in gardens big and small. Not only are tomatoes incredibly versatile in the kitchen, but they’re also one of the most prolific and cost-effective edible plants for beginner gardeners. Whether you’re growing cherry tomatoes in pots on your balcony or beefsteak tomatoes in a sunny backyard plot, you’re sure to enjoy a bountiful harvest without breaking the bank.
Best of all, if you’ve got an especially bountiful crop, canning these beauties up for the winter continues to save you money later in the year. Or! Can your own homemade salsa to use, to gift, to barter, or to sell as a cottage craft.
2. Lettuce
Salad lovers, rejoice! Lettuce is not only easy to grow but also incredibly cost-effective compared to buying pre-packaged greens from the store. With a little sun and regular watering, you can enjoy a continuous harvest of fresh, crisp lettuce leaves all season long. Plus, there are countless varieties to choose from, so you’ll never get bored with your salad bowl!
Beware, bunnies also love the lettuces. Which is great if you want to feed the wildlife. Not so great if you want to feed yourself. You may need to plant these in raised beds or behind deeply dug fences to stop hungry little nibblers cleaning out your baby greens.
3. Herbs
Fresh herbs can add a burst of flavor to any dish, and luckily, they’re also some of the easiest and most affordable plants to grow at home. From basil and cilantro to mint and rosemary, herbs thrive in pots or garden beds and require minimal maintenance. Plus, you’ll save a bundle compared to buying packaged herbs from the grocery store, making them a budget-friendly staple for beginner gardeners.
Beware that some herbs (I’m looking at you, mint), are especially prolific growers. Which is great for the bounty, but will also require being grown in a container to stop them from taking over everything.
4. Zucchini
If you’re looking to get the most bang for your buck, look no further than zucchini. These prolific plants produce an abundance of tender, delicious squash that can be enjoyed grilled, roasted, sautéed, or baked into bread and muffins. With just one or two zucchini plants, you’ll have plenty to share with friends and family or stock your freezer for the winter months ahead.
A word: Don’t plant too many of these. You will end up inundated with zucchini. Even with zoodles and zucchini chips and zucchini breads and zucchini soup, you will have far more than you can possibly use. Yes, you can barter these away to friends and family for other crops or even services. But eventually, they’re gonna be exhausted with them too and hide away in their house where you can’t foist the unwanted bumper crop on them anymore. Just leave a few bags of the excess on the doorstep and call it a gift. Ooooooor make up extra batches of pickles, chips, or zucchini bread and sell them at a craft fair or farmer’s market.
5. Green Beans
Another cost-effective option for beginner gardeners is green beans. These hardy plants are easy to grow from seed and produce a generous harvest of crisp, flavorful beans throughout the summer. Whether you prefer them steamed, stir-fried, or tossed into salads, fresh green beans are a nutritious and delicious addition to any meal. Can up the extra for winter use! Or, blanch them and freeze them.
6. Radishes
If you’re short on space or patience, radishes are the perfect edible plant for you. These fast-growing root vegetables are ready to harvest in just a few weeks and require minimal care and attention. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile in the kitchen, adding a peppery kick to salads, sandwiches, and more. If you’re not a fan of them raw, try them grilled or roasted.
And don’t just consider the root. The greens are also edible! They’re a fantastic addition to salads. However, you can also cook them like other greens, such as turnip or collard greens. Slow cooked with a smoked turkey leg? Yum!
But wait! There’s more!
More great crops for beginners:
Bell Peppers
Cucumbers
Spinach
Carrots
Cherry Tomatoes
Peas
Green Onions/Scallions
Squashes
More highly prolific crops:
Cucumbers
Peppers
Kale
Cherry Tomatoes
Carrots
Spinach
Strawberries
Cabbage
Squashes (Summer and Winter)
Onions
Potatoes
Eggplant
So there you have it, folks – my top picks for budget-friendly edible plants for beginner gardeners. Whether you’re growing tomatoes on your balcony or lettuce in your backyard, these easy-to-grow wonders are sure to bring joy, flavor, and plenty of savings to your garden adventures.
For even more information, check out these posts on How to Start a Garden on a Budget and How Gardening Saves You Money.
Happy planting! Momma
P.S. If you’re looking for a way to fund your gardening adventures, check out my FREE Guide on How to Make an Extra $1000.
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April 4, 2024Hey there, fellow budget-savvy plant enthusiast! Are you ready to roll up your sleeves, dig in the dirt, and cultivate your very own garden oasis without breaking the bank? Well, you’re in luck because I’ve got the inside scoop on how to start gardening on a budget, and trust me, it’s easier (and more affordable) than you might think!
Starting a garden doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. With a little creativity, resourcefulness, and a willingness to get your hands dirty, you can enjoy all the joys of gardening without putting a strain on your wallet. So grab your gardening gloves and let’s get started!
#1 Start Small
You don’t need a sprawling backyard or fancy equipment to start a garden. In fact, you can start small with just a few pots or containers on your balcony or windowsill. Start with easy-to-grow herbs like basil, parsley, or mint, or try your hand at growing cherry tomatoes, peppers, or salad greens. Not only will starting small save you money, but it’ll also help you gain confidence as you learn the ropes of gardening.
#2 Get Creative with Containers
Don’t let limited outdoor space hold you back! Get creative with containers and repurpose items you already have around the house, like old buckets, mason jars, or even shoe organizers. Just make sure your containers have drainage holes to prevent waterlogged roots, and you’ll be good to grow!
#3 Shop Smart
When it comes to buying gardening supplies, a little research can go a long way. Look for deals and discounts at local garden centers, or check out online marketplaces for secondhand pots, tools, and equipment. You’d be surprised at the treasures you can find for a fraction of the cost if you’re willing to do a bit of digging (pun intended)!
#4 Start From Seeds
While buying established plants from the nursery can be convenient, it can also be costly. Save money by starting your garden from seeds instead. Not only are seeds more affordable, but they also give you greater control over the varieties you grow. Plus, there’s something incredibly rewarding about watching tiny seeds sprout and grow into thriving plants right before your eyes!
And don’t feel like you have to spring for expensive seed starter trays either. Repurposing an egg carton is fantastic for starting seedlings. Or set up empty toilet paper rolls on a tray of some sort, fill with soil, and voila! Instant seed starter pod. Best of all the cardboard can be planted so you don’t have to disturb delicate roots when transferring outside.
Also uh… don’t pull the corn seedlings mistaking them for a weed. >_>
#5 Embrace DIY
From homemade compost bins to DIY trellises and garden markers, there are plenty of ways to save money by embracing the do-it-yourself mentality. Get crafty and repurpose household items into functional garden accessories, or enlist the help of friends and family for a fun weekend DIY project that’ll have your garden looking fabulous in no time. And remember, it doesn’t have to be beautiful; it just needs to be functional.
#6 Check In Daily
It might look like nothing’s happening in the garden, but make a point of checking in on it daily. If you skip one day, I guarantee that is the day all the weeds are gonna come in like gangbusters. So pop out, check on the garden. Cull any weeds you see trying to form. Make sure your plants haven’t acquired any diseases before one takes over an entire bed and the crop is lost. If you’re not seeing good growth, make sure pollenators are visiting your patch. Flowers somewhere nearby is a fantastic way to court them to come your way.
#7 Grow What You Love
Last but not least, focus on growing plants that you love to eat or admire. By prioritizing plants that bring you joy, you’ll be more motivated to tend to your garden and ensure its success. Whether you’re passionate about cooking with fresh herbs, savoring juicy homegrown tomatoes, or simply enjoying the beauty of blooming flowers, let your tastes and preferences determine your choices.
So there you have it, folks – my top tips for starting your budget-friendly gardening adventure! Remember, gardening is all about experimentation, learning, and having fun, so don’t be afraid to get creative and try new things. With a little patience and a lot of love, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying the fruits (and veggies) of your labor in no time.
For even more information, check out my posts on How to Save Money on Groceries by Gardening and the Best Plants for Beginning Gardeners.
Happy gardening! Momma
P.S. Looking for some extra money to buy those starter supplies like tools and seeds? Check out my FREE Guide on How to Make an Extra $1000. No DoorDash, Lyft, or daytrading stocks involved.
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April 3, 2024Hey there, budding gardener! If you’re looking for a fun and rewarding way to cut down on grocery expenses while enjoying fresh, nutritious produce, then you’re in the right place. Welcome to the world of gardening, where a little bit of dirt, sunshine, and love can go a long way in saving you some serious cash. Best of all, you don’t have to launch yourself head first into the homesteading lifestyle to see savings; you can get started wherever you are with whatever space is available to you.
Let’s face it, grocery bills can add up, especially if you’re a fan of fresh fruits and veggies. But fear not, because gardening offers a budget-friendly solution that not only puts delicious food on your table but also brings joy and satisfaction with every harvest.
Here’s how gardening can help you save money on food as a beginner:
1. Grow Your Own Produce
Say goodbye to pricey trips to the grocery store for tomatoes, lettuce, herbs, and more. With a small garden plot or even just a few pots on your balcony, you can grow your own fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs at a fraction of the cost. Plus, there’s nothing quite like the taste of a tomato picked ripe from the vine or the satisfaction of snipping fresh herbs for your meals.
2. Reduce Food Waste
When you grow your own food, you have more control over how much you harvest. No more buying a big bag of spinach only to let half of it wilt in the fridge. With a garden, you can pick just what you need, when you need it, reducing food waste and saving you money in the long run.
3. Maximize Your Space
Don’t have a big backyard? No problem! Even if you’re working with limited space, there are plenty of creative ways to grow your own food. Vertical gardens, container gardening, and raised beds are all space-saving options that allow you to make the most of your available area. Another option is participating in your local community garden. No community garden in your area? Contact your local municipality asking how to get one started. Cooperatively growing builds strong, neighborly relationships and improves neglected spaces. Always a good thing.
For more ideas on growing in small spaces, check out the following videos from Becoming a Farm Girl and Slow Life Stories on YouTube. They have a townhouse patio garden and an apartment balcony garden respectively. (Also, Slow Life Stories has two of the cutest doggos I have ever seen. Halp!)
4. Seed Saving
Once you start gardening, you’ll quickly discover that seeds are like magic little treasures. Save seeds from your favorite plants, and you’ll never have to buy them again. Not only does seed saving save you money, but it also allows you to develop your own unique varieties perfectly suited to your garden’s growing conditions.
5. Enjoy the Health Benefits
Gardening isn’t just good for your wallet; it’s also good for your health. Spending time outdoors, getting your hands dirty, and soaking up some sunshine are all great ways to reduce stress and stay active. Plus, when you’re eating fresh, homegrown produce, you’re nourishing your body with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help keep you healthy and vibrant. Better health means less doctor’s visits means less medical costs.
And as a bonus savings, you’ll be so active in your garden, you can scrap your gym membership. Woot!
Bonus: It’s Entertaining!
If you’re feeling uncertain about gardening because it feels like work after work, plunge into it with the mindset that it’s entertaining! Remember, we culled that gym membership (and jogging on a treadmill is hardly my idea of entertainment after a long shift on my feet). But, you could well find yourself so busy attending to your garden and having fun that you don’t have the time to blow $50 on drinks out with friends. There’s something incredibly satisfying about plunging your hands into fresh soil when planting, or harvesting something that you’ve grown with those same hands. With time spent out in nature enjoying yourself, you’ll not need all six streaming services to be entertained at night.
So, what are you waiting for? Dive in and start growing your own savings today! Whether you’re a total newbie or a seasoned pro, there’s always something new to learn and discover in the wonderful world of gardening.
Have I convinced you? Then head over to my posts on How to Start a Garden on a Budget and The Best Plants for Beginners. Happy gardening, and may your harvests be bountiful and your grocery bills be small!
Eat well, Momma
P.S. Wondering where you can find the funds to get started with your garden? Check out my FREE Guide How to Make an Extra $1000. No daytrading, rideshare, or food delivery involved!
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April 2, 2024Jump to Recipe
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I’m so excited for Spring, when all the berries are at their sweetest… and cheapest! Why? Because I’ve fallen in love with this easy salad and it’s tastiest when the baby greens are copious and the berries are everywhere.
Welcome to my Blackberry-Goat Cheese Salad!
It’s easy peasy lemon squeezy… without lemon unless you just want some. My preference is to splurge a little for a champagne vinaigrette. If you make your own dressings or don’t care for that one, other great options are: balsamic vinaigrette, poppyseed dressing, sweet Vidalia onion dressing, or even a honey mustard. You want something that has a touch of sweetness along with a touch of acid.
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Blackberry-Goat Cheese SaladRecipe by HRM Coupon QueenServings4servingsPrep time30minutesCooking time40minutesCalories300kcalIngredientsDirections
Have you made this yet? How did you like it? What dressing did you use? Lemme know!
Eat well, Momma
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April 1, 2024Oh yeah! It’s finally the time we’re all waiting for. Okay maybe just Momma’s family, but you’re family now too. That’s right! It’s strawberry season! There’s also plenty of tasty vegetables coming on board with the arrival of spring. But berries are coming onboard starting now, and will continue for a few months while temperatures remain cool-ish. (They don’t do heat so well.) Also rhubarb. While technically a veggie as well, rhubarb is typically treated like a fruit in culinary uses…sort of how tomatoes are a fruit but used like a veggie.
Why such a hoopla over strawberries being in season? Aren’t they available year round? Well sure. But. But. Strawberries, like most produce, taste the best when they’re actually in season. Not to mention that they become so much more affordable. Affordable enough to justify buying some extra and stocking them in your freezer for later. Or heck, for a fun outside venture, go out berry picking! Take some friends or family and make a day of loading up on sweet strawberries.
The list provided below is what’s considered season for the Northern Hemisphere. If you’re a Southern Hemisphere dweller, you’ll want to check out What’s In Season: October.
VeggiesFruitAsparagusRhubarbArtichokesStrawberriesAsparagusBeetsBroccoliCabbageCarrotsCeleryChardFennelKaleLeeksLettuceMushroomsOnionsPeasRadishesSpinachTurnips
Are you as excited for fresh strawberries as I am? What produce speaks Springtime to you?
Eat well, Momma
P.S. If you’re looking for seasonal produce to try to cut back on your grocery expenses, check out my FREE Guide on the 30 best foods to buy on a budget. Basing your meals around the basics in the guide and what’s in season will always help keep your food costs lower.
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March 25, 2024As talked about in my post about Sales Shopping, it is possible to stick to your grocery budget, even if you’re shopping at a higher-end store. It takes a little investment of time, and some creativity, but it’s certainly possible.
To demonstrate, I did a shop at our local Publix, using the week’s sales flier, and digital coupons available via Club Publix.
Now, I know… maybe you don’t have a Publix near by. Or maybe this precise weekly sale is off by the time you read this. No worries! The same principles about shopping the current sales and planning around them still holds. So use this particular week as the jumping off point/potential inspiration for your own sales shopping.
I spent $82 on a week’s groceries for two adults. This includes some snacks, and exactly no dried beans. No beans at all, actually. Mmmm… except for green beans, but those are veggies.
A few items of note:
This week, Del Monte canned veggies were 10 for $10, which beats out all other brands for price.
Cheez-Its are 2 for $4, with a $1 coupon when buying two boxes. Snacks!! A little happy snack should always be included in a budget shop. Something that brings joy. We like Cheez-Its.
Ham was $1.49 per pound and was the primary protein for the week. However, we can’t possibly burn through a 7-pound ham just the two of us, so half of it was put in the freezer for later.
The Cabot block cheeses are BOGO. We bought two because at $2.75 for a pound of cheese, we can grate or slice our own for recipes.
For those not in the know, if Publix is running a BOGO, the item will ring up half price. You don’t have to buy both items. So if Biscoff Cookies are BOGO and regularly $3.79, you will only pay $1.90 for one sleeve. (Which I did… because yum!)
Not all BOGO are a better price than the in-house brand. The BOGO Quaker oatmeal packets are the same price as the in-house Publix brand. However, Quaker’s box only has 8 packets to Publix’s 10 packets.
I did not buy butter or onions, although I used them in this meal plan. I’d just bought both a few days before and didn’t care to waste food I could not use before it goes.
I also assumed that most households have basic staples available such as: salt, pepper, and some variety of cooking oil.
This is just what I purchased as an example. Some items can absolutely be removed if disliked, or to make room for other sales items. Fried onions and cream soups were also on BOGO if anyone wanted to make a green bean casserole instead of having Cheez-Its.
There will be extra ingredients that go unused and added to the pantry. Half of the ham was frozen, as was one of the packages of hot dogs. Not all of the pasta was used this week and joined the pantry stock. Some of the canned vegetables might became pantry stash also, others were added to a meal to make it more filling.
The Smithfield brand sausage that was BOGO was sold out, except for the Hot variety. So recipes mentioning Spicy Sausage are using that.
The Greenwise Gala apples on BOGO were also sold out, so three regular Galas were bought instead. But they are much larger fruits than we could eat alone, so we went halvsies on them.
The Haul:
4 Mueller Pasta ($3.50)
2 Stahl Hot Dog Packages ($1.59)
1 Kraft Mac n Cheese ($.75)
1 Biscoff Cream Cookies Sleeve ($1.90)
1 Philadelphia Cream Cheese ($1.71)
1 Uncle Ben’s Ready Rice ($1.37)
1 Idaho Instant Potatoes Package ($.74)
7-lb Boneless Ham ($9.15)
2- 8 oz Cabot Cheese Blocks ($2.75)
1 Hillshire Farms Smoked Sausage ($2.63)
½ Gallon Publix Whole Milk ($2.77)
1 Box Publix Honey Nut Oats Cereal ($2.24)
1-45 oz Jar of Prego Spaghetti Sauce ($2.35)
2 Boxes of Cheez-Its ($3.00)
1 Can of Bumble Bee Light Tuna ($1.19)
1 Box of Community Coffee K-Pods ($3.75)
1 Can Publix Tomato Soup ($.87)
1 Can Hunts Fire-Roasted Diced Tomatoes ($.81)
1 Jar of Peter Pan Peanut Butter ($1.71)
1 Box of Publix Maple and Brown Sugar Oatmeal Packets ($1.96)
1 Roll of Smithfield Sausage ($2.50)
2.46 lbs Sweet Potatoes ($1.70)
1- 32 oz Container of Chobani Yogurt ($3.05)
2 lbs Publix Baby Carrots ($2.58)
1 Can Progresso Clam Chowder ($1.55)
1 Loaf of Nature’s Own Honey Wheat Bread ($1.71)
1- 8 oz Container of Sliced Baby Bella Mushrooms ($2.00)
1 Fresh Express Salad Kit ($2.75)
1 Head of Celery ($1.50)
3 Gala Apples ($2.83)
1- 3 lb Bag of Red Navel Oranges ($3.00)
10 Del Monte Vegetables ($10.00)
Total (pre-tax): $81.79
Savings: $69.83
Time Spent: 2.5 hours
Savings/Time: $27.93/hr.
Could I have done better? Probably. As it turns out, I only needed 1 pound of sweet potatoes, but fortunately they store well. Also I didn’t have to buy the Kraft mac n’ cheese when I also bought shell pasta and block cheese, but I wanted to demonstrate it can be made both ways. And I could have bought the smaller jar of spaghetti sauce, but at the time of the shop, I thought we would be making more tomato pasta dishes. The unused portion was frozen for later. Should I have bought the canister of oats? It would have been more economical, but I also recognize that many people lead busy lives and if an instant oats packet gets nutrition in them, then it’s worth the cost of convenience. Same for the salad kit. There’s not as much fruit as I would prefer and yes I could have waited for the BOGO apples to be back in stock or dropped the Cheez-Its in favor of fresh strawberries or grapes, but I wanted to give Hubs that small nicety snack.
Q: Why didn’t you spring for bananas, Momma? They’re always the cheapest fruit.
A. Momma is brutally allergic to bananas and has gotten rather fond of breathing.
Here’s how the meal plan shook out:
The meal plan above is a printable PDF if you click the link.
Leave a comment and lemme know how your sales shopping is going. Do you have any discount groceries where you live? If not, what are your choices?
Eat well! Momma
P.S. Don’t forget to grab your FREE copy of my guide on the best groceries to buy when you’re on a budget. They’re inexpensive and serve as a great foundation for building an affordable meal plan.
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March 25, 2024“Hey, Momma? Is it even possible to stick to a grocery budget if you don’t have a discount grocer available like Aldi?“
I have great news for you! It is actually possible. When we still lived in the Pacific Northwest, we had no Aldi at all available to us and the nearest Walmart was a 45-minute drive from our house. Not so great for a regular shopping week. In fact, after the one local Semi-Not-Expensive store was bought out by the Expensive Store, all that was left without a long haul was Expensive or Hekkin’ Expensive. Or Dollar Tree.
Now while Dollar Tree can be great for a pinch and for staples like dried beans and rice, it’s notsomuch for the fresh produce. So I had to settle for shopping Expensive Store and making extensive use of its sales and digital coupons.
Here’s the unpopular opinion: The tighter your budget (or the higher your general cost of living), the more time you will need to invest in the planning and shopping for groceries. I know. It stinks. Taking your day off and having to spend time combing the sales flyer, and loading digital coupons, is no one’s idea of a good time. But it does make it possible to eat, and eat well, without busting your grocery allowance.
Step One: If your local grocery has a rewards program and/or savings app, get them ASAP.
We were fortunate that the grocery local to us frequently ran sales, which we would use to stock up on staples, including meats and frozen veggies. They also had $5 Fridays in several departments including bakery (for cakes) and deli (for lunchmeat and cheese). They also participated in a Monopoly game once a year, and we frequently won free bagels and donuts, in addition to other free foods and even spices! Then with their rewards program, you could either cash out your points for more free foods, or take a discount on your gas, up to $1 off per gallon. The rewards program also had digital coupons only available to members, so definitely worth it to sign up.
Step Two: Look through the sales flyer to see what’s on sale that week.
The first thing you want to look for is what proteins/meats are on sale. If chicken is 69 cents a pound for a 10 pound bag of leg quarters, it’s all chicken baby! If by some miracle the frozen ground turkey chubs drop to $1 each, plan on making ground turkey the primary protein in the meal. Should the ham go on sale for $1.49 a pound, it’s all things piggy for the week.
From there, make a note of any BOGO sales, any discounts with digital coupons or rewards membership. Just scribble anything that looks useful to you on a spare bit of paper. I know typing things out is a thing, but for now, you’re just taking 15 minutes to note anything you might want. Pruning comes later.
Step Three: Break out your Price Book to compare sale prices to regular price.
What is a price book? It’s a book you keep at hand, with notes under each category of what the standard prices are for the items you typically buy. That way when your grocery has toilet paper “on sale” for $24 down from “regular” $36, you know that’s bull… because it’s regularly $16. (Heyo Covid-era price gouging.) The purpose here is to do a quick double check that the store sale price is actually a deal. Because sometimes even with a BOGO and a coupon, the box of Cheerios is still more costly than the in-house Honey Nut Toasty-Os.
Personally, I happen to love the price book I got over at She’s In Her Apron. I keep my notes in pencil and update them about every three months or so. (I’ll take “What Is Inflation?” for $500, Alex.) Nothing hard and you don’t have to make a special trip to fill it out. Just next time you’re at the store, make pencil notes on the prices of things that you buy on the regular: flour, canned tomatoes, pasta, apples, cereal, milk, etc. No added work beyond a quick five-second note while you’re just doing a shop.
And don’t forget to pick up my FREE Guide of the 30 Best Groceries to Buy When on a Budget. Many of these will be items you use frequently and want to record in your price book.
Step Four: Start coming up with meals based on sales and coupons.
You won’t use everything, but try to come up with approximately 2-3 breakfasts, 3-4 lunches, and 5 dinners. Maybe it’s oatmeal with yogurt some mornings and eggs with toast the other mornings. For lunches, it’s sandwiches, dinner leftovers, and a ham and bean soup. Dinners use that primary protein you found, any veggies that are on sale or inexpensive, and a starch.
This is where that pruning mentioned before comes in. You want to try to stick to two, maybe three, main starches. Bread, rice and potatoes. Or grits, pasta, and sweet potatoes. You’ve got your main protein, but maybe hot dogs are on sale for $1 a pack; add those into the mix too. Pick a couple of fruits to have with breakfast and lunch. Or if the canned versions of a brand are at an amazing pricepoint, spring for variety.
As you go through the meals you’re thinking of, look for places where items can be used in multiple meals. Plan on elbow macaroni to make mac n’ cheese one day, and then added to a veggie soup another night.
Step Five: Make your grocery list. (But be ready to be flexible.)
You never know when there’s an unadvertised in-store special. Recently I found chubs of sausage marked 49 cents per pound. You’ll want to stock up on those if they happen. But also be ready for that Cheerios scenario mentioned above. Once you’re at the store, you realize that the base price is up from what’s listed in your price book, and now the in-house brand is still less expensive, even with the BOGO and the digital coupon. Have your list and stick to it for the sake of your meal plan, but be ready to pivot if a better deal shows up.
Step Six: Check in with Ibotta to see if there are any rebates for items on your list.
Lemme tell you how unhappy I have been when I forget this step and come home to find all the money I left on the table in rebates. Especially when I would have hit one of the bonuses that give an extra $5-$10 back in rebates. T_T
Just a quick 10-15 minutes to check in on Ibotta for rebates on items you plan to buy, or need as a necessity.
As a disclaimer, the link for Ibotta above is my referral link. If you use it, we both get bonus money! Looking for more info on Ibotta? Check out my post on how I used Ibotta to get a free turkey for Thanksgiving!
Step Seven: Do the shop!
Yes, I acknowledge that there is something to be said for pickup or delivery. However. It’s been my persistent experience that pickup invariably leaves out something I was really depending on, gives me unripe/rotten produce, or makes a costly substitution. Delivery always has an upcharge on all the items, and that’s before the delivery fee and the tip.
If you use these methods to shop because you cannot resist the siren call of Doritos at full-price, may I suggest you do not walk down the snackies aisle. Just don’t do it. It doesn’t exist for you anymore than the baby aisle does when you don’t have a baby. I understand–easier said than done.
But also remember, there are often in-store sales and markdowns that you would be unaware of if you don’t enter the building. It’s worth the danger of Doritos to get sausage for 49 cents per pound.
I hope you’ve found this process useful for your own efforts. If this is your first attempt at really planning off the sales, don’t give in to discouragement. The first few tilts in this joust will take you more time than it will take you later. The more you practice scanning ads, making a meal plan and building a list, the quicker you will become in completing those tasks. My first few runs at it took me an hour to just look at ads and coupons. Another hour for meal planning. And gosh about two hours to do the shop because I had to be exact about the brands. If that sounds like a lot… it is. But it does get better. And easier. Do this on your day off so you have time to devote to it. Like riding a bike or playing piano, budget shopping is a skill that requires practice for efficient execution.
But don’t worry! You’ve got this!
Let me know what your best budget find or money saving sales hack is in the comments. And check out my most recent example of what this sort of shop looks like at Publix, complete with the grocery list and meal plan.
What is your biggest challenge in sticking to your grocery budget?
Eat well! Momma
P.S. Don’t forget to pick up my new Free Guide: How to Make an Extra $1000.
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March 14, 2024How do you keep your morale up when you’re on a stringent budget and everything just feels like suck? Are you there right now? Do you find yourself ordering takeout or delivery to try to diminish your feelings of anxiety and depression because your finances are dreary and everything seems forever hopeless?
Does Momma sound like an ad for an antidepressant med? Whoops!
Well today I’m gonna give you 5 practical things you can do today for FREE that can improve the quality of your meals and your mental health. And look, I’m not even gonna tell you not to spring for the carton of ice cream because you hate your job and you feel broke as a joke. I will tell you that the choices you make have the power to lift your mindset and your lifestyle while you’re clawing your way through adulting.
#1 Set Your Table.
I know table setting isn’t something that’s readily taught ever, and certainly not the first thing that comes to mind when upgrading means “supersize it.” But it’s incredibly easy and not at all complicated, at least not until you hit the fine dining scene where etiquette is on the menu. The bare basics involve fork to the left of the plate, knife and spoon to the right. Drinks to the upper right of the plate. I’ve got a graphic below to demonstrate the basic outlay. Many pieces won’t be necessary if your dinner is a bowl of chili mac, but I want something that’s easy for you to see and use as a tool. (Honestly I wish there was a more barebones basic one so it doesn’t feel too overwhelming, but workin’ with that I had at hand.)
Before we get to that graphic, let’s talk about the potential elephant in the room. Maybe you don’t have a table to set. Maybe you eat at your computer desk because it’s the only flat surface you have. Maybe you just have a coffee table at your couch, or a TV tray. Maybe you have a breakfast tray you balance on your bed. Or maybe you have a table (or bar), but it’s currently doubling as a cluttered junkheap of storage.
Clear it off.
Whatever or wherever you use (or don’t use) for meals, clean and tidy that area. Don’t just make a space on an otherwise sloppy, overfilled coffee table. Clear the whole space. Tidy your desk if that’s all you have. Actually dig out your table from under the junk mail and empty Amazon boxes. I’d press for cleaning the whole room, but that could potentially take hours and I don’t want you to quit before you start. Clear the surface. The whole enchilada. Then set your table.
#2 Use Real Dishes.
The nice ones. The ones you inherited from your Granny. Use your single porcelain teacup you got for your 8th birthday, even if it now has a chip in it. Even if you don’t have “nice” dishes, use real ones. Yeah the kind that have to go in the sink and be washed. Because you are worth eating off real dishes.
I understand that Chinese takeout boxes are designed to open and form a type of paper plate. However. Don’t eat the ice cream out of the carton; put it in a bowl. Don’t eat the Big Mac out of the wrapper; put it on a plate. Pour your Coke Zero into a glass, don’t just drink it straight from the can. Does this create more dishes for you? It does, and absolutely wash them. But please hear me that there is more satisfaction in eating your meal, whatever it might be, off a real dish like a genuine human being. Throwaway food containers can give the feeling that the food itself, or the consumer of the food, is also disposable.
Whatever you choose to eat, whether it’s surf n’ turf or a Nachos Bellgrande, put it on a real dish. And if you do happen to have some of those nice dishes, don’t save them for a “special occasion.” Use them. They are valuable and You are valuable and you deserve to eat off fancypants plates. (Holding your pinky in the air is optional.)
#3 Plate Your Meal.
The old saying goes “you eat with your eyes.” You don’t have to go so far as 5-star plating with three whole dots of sauce and two sprigs of parsley next to your sliver of chicken. But do make the effort to arrange your food on the plate in a visually appealing arrangement. This can be the difference between putting your curry next to the rice in the bowl, instead of just pouring it over the top. Even if you intend to mix everything up later, having the visible presentation will enhance your enjoyment of your meal, even if you’re not consciously aware of it.
Other plating suggestions could be to put your orange slices in a bowl, rather than just sitting the whole fruit on the table. Sprinkle some dried herbs like parsley or rosemary over your food, if you don’t happen to have fresh at hand. Drizzle your ranch dressing over your salad in a zig-zag instead of just glopping it on. Nothing difficult or complex. The goal here is to invest 30 extra seconds to make your meal appealing to your eyes. You are worth that tiny droplet of extra effort.
And let’s be real, it makes everything look gourmet, even if it’s just chicken nuggies and fries.
#4 Slip a bit of fruit into your water.
This isn’t so different from when you go out to eat and ask for water with your lemon. I’m not a fan of lemon water myself–more of a lime lady. But even if you’re not a citrus person, or you just can’t afford fresh limes, there are plenty of other choices. Drop a stray strawberry into your water instead. Or a chunk of canned pineapple. Or both together! Is your potted mint taking over everything? (I know it is.) Toss a sprig of mint into your glass with or without a slice of cucumber.
This upgrade serves a bunch of purposes. It’s likely going to encourage you to drink more water if it tastes nice. It looks elegant, like a restaurant quality drink. It adds color to your mealtime experience. It feels indulgent, because it is indulgent. And it’s a simple little thing you can do with whatever you have at hand that will make you feel pampered.
#5 Play relaxing or uplifting music while you eat.
Aggretsuko-level of metal karaoke may be your personal preference, and if it is, that’s just fine. But while you’re eating, pick something that is calming, peaceful, and relaxing. No angry “I hate everything and you just suck!!!!” songs. Find something positive or instrumental to play. It makes your house like a fine dining establishment where soothing music is a soft and unobtrusive backdrop to the meal.
But Momma, won’t that be too much going on with the TV going too? About that. We’re not catching up on our YouTube subs, we’re not watching a Twitch stream, we’re not bingewatching the latest Netflix liveaction while we eat. For that matter, we’re not doomscrolling our socials or arguing with idiots on the internet either. We’re just gonna have a sit at our clean meal space and unwind from a craptastic work day with some calm music and maybe a glass of wine with our spaghetti.
Set aside your mealtimes for you and whomever you live with that you’re on speaking terms with. (I know some of you have roommates you’d like to punt out the window.) Turn on the music. Let it help ease away any stress or tension you’ve got left from your day. Let it help you slow down and fully appreciate the meal you’re eating as the result of your hard labor.
This isn’t the time for “Eye of the Tiger” motivational music. Use that during your cleaning time or doing the dishes. Something like Enya, a YouTube music channel that specializes in relaxing or meditation music, or piano-only remixes of your favorite positive tunes… these are great ideas to start from.
But wait! There’s more! Three bonus ideas you can also tack on, just as little things to make life that little bit nicer.
Bonus #1: Sprinkle cinnamon on your coffee grounds.
The flavor will infuse into the coffee as it brews.A tiny upgrade to your home coffee routine that should make you smile.
Bonus #2: Take your meal outside.
If you have any sort of table and chair outside, whether it’s a plastic patio set, or a small sitting space on your apartment’s roof, take the food. Enjoy the fresh air. Feel fancy like you’re eating at a streetside bistro. A bistro named Chez Moi. (A picnic is also a legit variation on this theme.) Light a citronella candle to keep away bugs if they’re problematic where you are.
Bonus #3: Finish your meal with a warm drink like coffee or tea.
Even if desserts aren’t in the grocery budget, you can wrap up the meal taking the time to savor your beverage.
As you can see, there’s a plethora of little ways you can make your meals nicer and more peaceful. Are there any you think I’ve missed? Let me know! Which one on the list is your favorite?
Eat well, Momma
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March 11, 2024Jump to Recipe
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Who doesn’t love bacon? I assume if you’re here, you do. But. I don’t love the mess afterward. And to be really honest, I’m lazy and I really don’t like having to babysit the bacon while it cooks so I know when to turn it.
So for the cleaning-averse and lazy cook, I present Baked Bacon!
Baking your bacon in the oven still provides you with a crispy cook, with half the mess. By containing the pan to the oven, any grease splatters are safely kept inside and away from searing my fingers. Or face. And by using a rimmed baking sheet, all the fat released by the bacon while it cooks is nicely kept in an easy vessel. Especially when you line the sheet with parchment paper which acts as a pouring funnel when time for collecting the grease. Nothing is easier!
The downside to baking the bacon instead of frying it up in a pan is that this is a slower method of cooking. Pan-frying is the faster trip to bacon in your face. But I don’t mind the slightly longer cooking time. Mainly because I can toss the bacon into the oven, go grab a shower, and come back to delicious crispy slices ready for my consumption. Or pet my doggo. Or catch up on Reels. Yanno, stuff you can’t do when the skillet is on the fire.
How to Cook Bacon in the Oven (in 7 easy steps)
Step 1:
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
Step 2:
Crumple parchment paper so it will lay flat and not roll up. Uncrumple the parchment paper and line baking sheet with it. (Or use aluminum foil if no parchment is available. No crumpling necessary.)
Step 3:
Lay bacon strips out on baking sheet, trying to keep them from touching. None of the bacon should be overlapping, or those portions will not cook correctly.
Step 4:
Bake bacon for 15-20 minutes, depending on your desired level of crispiness and the thickness of the cut. Thicker bacon will take longer to cook, as will larger pieces.4a. Turn bacon over 5 minutes from the end of cooking time. This is optional The bacon will fully cook on both sides, whether you flip or not. If it’s very thick bacon, the bottom side may be more crisp than the top side without a flip. ymmv
Step 5:
Remove bacon from oven. Place bacon strips on a paper towel lined plate to drain. Pat tops of strips with additional paper towel to remove excess grease.
Step 6:
Enjoy bacon! (Maybe share bacon with people you like. Maybe. Or not. Because bacon.)
Step 7:
Pour bacon fat into a heat-safe container and allow to cool. Personally, I adore my piggy bacon bin. Store bacon fat in the fridge for cooking later. Don’t throw it away! It’s free cooking fat and flavor. And I know you aren’t some sort of Bacon Wasting Heathen.
There you have it, the lazy method of bacon cooking. If you’re in a super hurry and need your bacon faster, go check out my post on how to pan-fry bacon. It’s a legit need! Before you scuttle off to your kitchen, leave a comment and lemme know how you plan to use all that delicious bacon you’re cooking.
Don’t forget to grab my FREE guide: 30 Best Groceries on a Budget!
Eat well, Momma
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Baked BaconRecipe by HRM Coupon QueenBaking your bacon in the oven is the easiest way to crispy bacon, with minimal mess. This method is fantastic for those who don’t want to babysit a skillet waiting to turn the bacon over.IngredientsBACON!large baking sheetparchment paper or aluminum foilfork or tongs, for turningDirectionsPreheat oven to 400 degrees F.Line baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. (see note on foil)Lay bacon strips out side by side on the baking sheet.Place baking sheet in oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until bacon has reached desired crispinessOptionally, turn bacon over 5 minutes from end of cooking time for more even doneness.Remove bacon from oven and transfer strips onto a paper towel lined plate or platter. Pat top side of bacon with additional paper towels to remove excess grease.Enjoy delicious bacon! Consider sharing tasty bacon with people you like. Maybe. Because bacon.Pour bacon fat into heat-safe container, allow to cool, and store in the fridge for later use. Do NOT dispose of grease down the sink or it will clog the pipes. (Also, why would you waste good bacon fat? You’re no heathen.)
Notes
Foil isn’t the recommended lining for the baking sheet. Some people object to cooking with aluminum. Personally I have had bacon stick and rip on the foil. This doesn’t happen with the parchment paper. At least for me. However, I do recognize that not every kitchen is going to have both foil and parchment paper available. If all you have is foil, do use it. Otherwise, the bacon will stick to the pan and lose you precious salty pork.I have also attempted to use a silicone mat for baking bacon. It will work, but the grease seeps under the mat, which makes everything harder to clean at the back end of cooking. Silicone mats will stop the bacon from sticking, but won’t serve you in terms of grease control.Bacon that is not turned over mid-cook will still cook fully. However, the underside can potentially cook more than the upward facing side. This is especially true for a thick-cut bacon. If you prefer a more even final product, turn the bacon over the last 5 minutes of cook time.
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March 11, 2024Jump to Recipe
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Bacon.
Bacon. Bacon. Bacon.
BACON!
Crispy or chewy? The answer is Yes.
Now that we’ve established that bacon is Joy and Salty Deliciousness, let’s talk about how to cook it so we can hurry up to enjoying it.
Pan-frying bacon is the best known method of cooking it, and also the quickest. (Excepting the microwave but we don’t talk about Bruno.) Also potentially the most messy method. There are splatters and pops, usually if your skillet is too hot or if you aren’t draining away the extra fat. Splattering can be controlled with keeping your skillet on a nice medium heat, or with a handy dandy splatter screen laid over your skillet.
Alright, I know, get to the bacon already!
How To Pan-Fry Bacon in 10 Steps
Step 1:
Collect your supplies. Those will include the star-of-the-show BACON! Also a large skillet, a heat-safe plate or platter, paper towels, your splatter screen or skillet lid, and some tool for turning be it a fork, a spatula, or tongs.
Step 2:
Put your skillet over a burner that most closely matches the size of the skillet bottom. This will help ensure the bacon cooks as evenly as possible.
Step 3:
Turn on the burner to a medium heat and allow skillet to heat up. If it’s smoking, you waited too long. Pull the skillet, let it cool off, then heat. A droplet of water in the skillet should go bouncing around.
Step 4:
Lay the bacon out in long strips, side by side, like little toy soldiers. You want to avoid them touching as much as possible, because that will make the turning process easier later. It’s not the end of the world if there’s a little soldier shoulder brushing, but make sure the strips aren’t overlapping. Depending on the quantity of bacon being cooked, you will most likely have to work in batches. The skillet should not be crowded.
Step 5:
Cook bacon for a few minutes, until the edges are turning crisp and brown. The time needed will vary, depending on the length of your bacon strips, and the thickness of the cut.
Step 6:
While bacon is cooking, line a heat-safe plate with paper towels.
Step 7:
Carefully, turn over bacon strips to cook on the other side. It should take between 2-4 minutes further cooking, depending how crispy you have made the first side.
Step 8:
Remove bacon from skillet to paper towel lined plate, to drain. Pat tops of bacon slices with additional paper towel to remove additional excess grease.
Step 9:
If cooking more bacon, drain skillet of grease, into a heat safe container. I personally love my bacon bin grease saver. The piggy is so cute! Whatever you do, do not put hot grease down your sink. It will clog up the pipes. But I implore you not to waste that delicious bacon grease. It’s like free cooking fat and flavor, all rolled into one.
Step 10:
Continue as directed as above, if more bacon needs cooked. Otherwise, consider sharing your bacon with your family. I said consider! I understand not wanting to share.
If You Have a Griddle: Griddle frying bacon is pretty much identical to cooking in a pan. The primary difference is you will definitely need to stay on top of draining the bacon grease off the griddle between batches, or it will go spilling over the sides. Or! Get yourself a tilting griddle! (What a good use of a tax refund, eh?) I personally have the Presto Tilt n’ Drain and I love it. The griddle can be used flat for pancakes, or tilted to let the griddle drain into a catch pan, when cooking delicious things like burgers or BACON!
So there we are, friend! Happily arrived at crispy bacon, with plenty of bacon fat set aside for later cooking projects! Leave a comment and let me know your favorite use for bacon. I happen to love a good BLT myself.
And don’t forget to pick up your FREE copy of my guide: 30 Best Groceries on a Budget.
Eat well! Momma
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Pan-fried BaconRecipe by HRM Coupon QueenIs the anything tastier than delightfully crispy bacon? This recipe shows you how to pan-fry your bacon. Details on cooking on a griddle are included in the notesIngredientsBACON!!!a solid bottom large skilletheat-safe plate or platterpaper towelstongs/fork/spatula, for turningDirectionsSet stove top temperature to a medium and heat skillet.Lay strips of bacon into hot skillet, lined up like little soldiers but not quite touching.Bacon will shrink as it cooks.While bacon is cooking, line a heat-safe plate or platter with paper towels.Cook bacon for a few minutes, until edges begin to crisp and turn brown. Time will vary depending on the thickness of the cut.Using tongs/fork/spatula, carefully turn bacon over and cook on other side for 2-3 minutes.Remove bacon from skillet to paper towel lined plate. Laying them flat will allow for beautiful long strips.Use additional paper towel to pat the tops of the bacon to remove any excess grease.Consider sharing delicious bacon with your family.
Notes
To cook bacon on a griddle, follow the same general directions as for pan fried. However, be aware that the bacon grease will pool. Either use a tilting electric griddle that will drain and catch the bacon fat, or be prepared to pour off grease into a heat-safe container between batches.
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March 5, 2024It’s tax season. (At least, it is in the U.S.) Which means people are scrambling to submit their taxes in view of getting back their tax return. Or if you think you owe, you’re putting it off to the last possible moment.
Today, we’re gonna be talking about those of us who are looking to receiving their tax return. Those beautiful dollars that the government has been holding hostage for the past year. Drawing interest. On your money. Money that you could have been investing for yourself.
And while Momma could absolutely rant for days about the government making money on your money, I’m gonna refrain. Mostly. Except to point out that the money you are getting back is money you could have been spending on life’s necessities or investing for your own future. I feel like Uncle Sam really ought to pay us the interest they made, but… Ahem. Right. Refunds!
So I’ve talked a little bit in another post about things you could buy with your tax refund. Sensible things that will help fast forward your financial goals. Today, I’d like to talk with you about ways you could invest the money.
Disclaimer: Momma is just Momma. I am not a qualified/certified expert who can legally tell you what securities to buy. The SEC is pretty strict about this and I’m not gonna step on those toesies. This is not professional investment advice. This is Momma sharing with you basic civilian ideas.
So where should you invest your tax refund? Here’s my top seven suggestions for you:
1. Fund your emergency savings.
If you don’t have a very basic $1000 in savings strictly earmarked for emergencies, this needs to be your first use of your tax refund. Because life will happen. Your tires will go flat in an ice storm. Your lawn mower will die when the city is sending you nastygrams about your grass being too tall. Your pants will split in the crotch while you’re running late for your shift. Having the emergency fund in place will ensure that these remain annoyances and not devastating financial crises.
And should your tax refund not be enough to fully fund that basic emergency savings, check out my FREE Guide: How to Make $1000.
2. Invest in your health.
When’s the last time you had an annual checkup? Or an eye exam? I know, healthcare costs are absolutely obnoxious. (At least, they are in the U.S. even with insurance.) Use your tax refund to go get those basic health care needs attended to. See your dentist. Get your checkup. Talk to a nutritionist about how to improve your daily diet. By putting in effort to check on and improve your health, you are potentially saving yourself obnoxious bills when your house of health comes crashing down. Better to find out you’re pre-diabetic in an annual health exam than a full blown diabetic when you’re in surgery having an infectious mass cut out of your body. The costs on a preventative checkup are far less than a weeklong hospital stay post-op.
3. Pay down/off a debt.
Now wait, Momma. That’s not investing! Oh but it is! Let’s say you’re paying 12% interest on your student loan and you pay down the principle of the loan, you have effectively made a 12% return on your money. And by lowering the overall balance, any subsequent monthly payments will be putting more money towards the principle, as there is less base loan to be calculating the interest. Or! Say you’ve got a $500 balance on your credit card at 24%. Use your tax return to pay off the entire balance and make a 24% return on your money. (Also if you’re not paying off your credit cards in full at the end of every month, I advise you to stop using them. Interest on the balance is like flushing money down the toilet.)
4. Invest in supplies/materials/improvements to your side hustle.
What you’re looking to do is invest in your future potential earnings by investing into your side hustle. Do you need a better mic for your Twitch channel? Do you need a trailer to haul your lawn equipment? What about more fabric for your quilting hustle? By investing your tax return into your hustle, you’re looking forward to ways to grow and expand it. What’s the return? It honestly depends on both your chosen industry and your effort put into the work.
5. Fund your Roth IRA.
I assume you are investing in your 401K with your company match. Even if you’re not, or if your employer doesn’t offer these, investing in your Roth is a great investment for your future. The younger you are, the longer your money has to grow and compound. It is essentially making money in your sleep. Yep. And with the Roth, because the money is invested post-tax, you will not pay taxes on the growth in the future. As of 2024, you can contribute up to $7000 per year, if you are under 50. If you are 50 or older, your maximum contribution is $8000. I’m not making any recommendations where to deploy that money. Do your own research or talk to your financial investment advisor.
6. Get the oil changed in your car.
How on earth is this an investment? Well how often do you put off maintenance on your car because money is tight or you forgot? Sadly if you don’t take care of the routine business like oil changes, you could be looking at a completely wasted engine. Which, by the way, is ridiculously expensive to repair. If it can be salvaged at all. So use that tax refund by investing into the longevity of your car. The small output for any routine maintenance is a tiny fraction of the money you’d outlay for a major repair.
7. Invest in yourself.
Have you been meaning to learn how to knit? Interested in learning Greek? Have no clue how to take quality photos of your woodworking projects? Go ahead and invest in yourself. Sign up for the creative writing course at your local university. Head over to Skillshare and pick up a new skill that interests you. Find an online coach with a training program that shows you how to convert your hobby into a hustle. Whatever ignites your imagination, invest in yourself. Learn those new skills. Pay for a personal instructor. You are absolutely worth the investment.
Bonus: Invest in others through giving.
Whether you make a contribution through your place of worship, or donate to your favorite charity, giving can be the greatest investment you can make. By giving to others, you help them grow and thrive. It becomes an immeasurable return. Pay it forward. Invest in others. Give.
Just because the government made interest on your money this past year doesn’t mean you can’t grow it for yourself now that you’ve gotten it back. Leave a comment and let me know how you’re planning to invest your tax return this year.
Love, Momma
P.S. Since I’m trying to add supplemental content on YouTube as well, check out my new video how on to use your tax refund. There’s some bonus ideas not listed here.
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March 4, 2024Jump to Recipe
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We all know and acknowledge that instant ramen is a staple food for people on a budget. Especially tight budgets. But just because you’re on a budget doesn’t mean you can’t make your ramen absolutely outstanding.
This version is treated like a stir-fry instead of a soup. Better still, it’s served in a peanut butter based sauce reminiscent of a Thai peanut sauce. Not quite authentic, but it does the job in a pinch and it’s pretty tasty. Best of all, it’s very flexible. Use whatever veggies you like and have on hand. Cabbage, mushrooms, and even a frozen stir-fry blend can all work fantastic with this recipe.
Topping the ramen with some sliced green onion adds a pop of freshness to the dish, and a fried egg makes it that much more satisfying and filling.
Best of all, if you’re using up items you have in your house, including soy packets and the last smidge of peanut butter, this recipe can be one of the most cost-effective meals in your arsenal.
Leave a comment and let me know which veggies you like best in your stir-fry!
And don’t forget to pick up your FREE copy of my 30 Best Foods on a Budget. Ramen, peanut butter, and eggs all make the list!
Eat well, Momma
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Ramen Stir-Fry in Peanut SauceRecipe by HRM Coupon QueenCourse: PastaCuisine: FusionDifficulty: EasyServings2servingsPrep time5minutesCooking time5minutesA quick use-it-up recipe, this stir fry sauce is built up with peanut butter and soy sauce. Topped with a fried egg, it’s a great way to improve on instant ramen noodles.Ingredients1/2 T cooking oil (high smoke point)12 oz. frozen peppers and onions1 tsp garlic paste1 tsp ginger paste2 T peanut butter1/2-1 T soy sauce1 package instant ramen1 egg (optional)1-2 green onions, sliced (optional)DirectionsHeat oil in skillet.Add peppers and onions and saute until tender crisp.Add ginger and garlic and cook 1 minute.Add peanut butter and soy to skillet to build peanut sauce.While vegetables are cooking, bring water to a boil and cook ramen to package directions.Add some starch water (2-4 Tablespoons) from cooked ramen to thin sauce to desired consistency.Cook for an additional minute, or until stir-fry reaches desired consistency.Top with fried egg and green onions, if desired.
Notes
Fresh or dried ginger and garlic can be used in place of pastes.A drizzle of sesame oil makes a delicious garnish, if available.If using less soy sauce in the peanut sauce, salt might be needed. Optionally, salt the ramen cooking water.Save the unused ramen flavor packet for cooking rice or as a replacement for bullion in other recipes.
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March 2, 2024Imagine suddenly having a windfall of money that could make it possible to fast forward your financial goals. Not only is this possible, it’s coming soon to a taxpayer called You.
Although let’s be clear: a tax refund is not a windfall. This is money that you could have been using throughout the year. Money that the Federal Government has held onto and made interest on. Money you could have been making interest on. Money that could have gotten you a relief bag of Taco Bell after your boss yelled at you for someone else’s mistake. This is YOUR money. You earned it. You deserve to use it to improve your life.
So let’s talk about using your tax refund to get ahead and fast track your financial goals, effective deployment of your money over buying new shiny toys and fluff.
Here are ten things you can buy, that are a great use of your refund:
1. Buy a slow cooker.
Doing this will allow you to toss meals into the slow cooker before you leave from work, and have a hot meal waiting for you when you get home. Less trips through the drive through or getting delivery will save you money throughout the year. (If you’re not sure which slow cooker you need, be sure to check out my post on How to Choose a Slow Cooker.)
2. Buy a side of beef or a whole pig.
Buying your protein in bulk directly from the farmer is an excellent investment into your future food budget. If you doubt you can use the whole quantity purchased in a year, split the meat and the costs with a friend or family member.
3. Buy a chest freezer.
Buying a chest freezer will give you added space for any bulk cooking that you do. Or it will provide you with ample space to stow that side of beef you want to buy. Additionally, it can make for an extra work surface if you’re low on counters in your kitchen.
4. Stock your spice rack and/or pantry.
If you’ve been meaning to start making your own chili seasoning or homemade marinara but put it off because spices and herbs can be costly, now is the time to purchase those items to expand your culinary skills. Additionally, you can get bulk bags of flour or rice (and the containers to store them), to reduce your cost per ounce of these staples. And check out this magnetic spice rack for stowing your spices neatly.
5. Buy new work pants and/or shoes.
Let’s be honest, you need clothes and shoes for your job. And they always want to wear out and rip at the worst possible times, like when you’re scheduled a clopen. You know you’re going to need these items, so get ahead of the game and buy the replacements with your tax refund. Save yourself the future stress of having to scramble shop.
6. Buy a quality mattress.
Man oh man. Sleep matters so much. And what you sleep on truly matters. Remember that you spend one-third of your life in your bed, trying to sleep. Arguably you spend as much time sleeping as you do working your 9-to-5. That’s a lot of time. Investing in a quality mattress suited for your sleeping patterns is arguably the most important item on this list.
7. Buy supplies for your hobby turned side hustle.
Have you got a hobby that you’re using as a side hustle? Whether it’s knitting or baking or candlemaking, any of these hobbies requires supplies to craft. Buying yourself more supplies for you to sell your goods is a fantastic way to upcycle your tax refund.
8. Buy insulation for your house to make it more energy efficient.
Are you living in an older house that had wretched utility bills? Arguably this doesn’t help if your renting, but if you own your home, consider getting insulation for your attics to help keep your furnace from working overtime. Optionally, you could also get energy efficient windows or appliances, depending on the size of your refund. Any of these will absolutely pay for themselves over time in the reduction of your energy bills.
9. Buy a coffee pot and milk steamer.
A Keurig? Sure if you want. Or an espresso machine. A French press. Go ahead and get the milk steamer and frother. Even though coffee prices are still soaring, making your own brew at home is so much more affordable than hitting up your local barista. Make your own fancy indulgence and use those extra minutes you would have spent waiting at the coffee shop to savor your coffee or pet your puppy.
10. Buy meal prep containers.
This purchase is setting you up for future success. Buy yourself a set of meal prep containers. Now, you will have to actually meal prep in some fashion to get the best use out of them. But having them available does make the task of cooking prep easier because you’re not having to dig around hoping for enough containers to put everything away. And if you’ve done a prep in advance of your work week, all you have to do is grab a lunch and go.
Bonus:
Pre-pay your cell coverage or your car insurance. Some mobile carriers, like Mint Mobile will allow you to buy a year’s worth of service at one time. So then there aren’t any surprises when you forget that your set your mobile service to auto-debit and it falls the day before your paycheck. You can also often do the same for your car insurance. Again, saving yourself the surprise of the charge, and most providers offer a discount for paying the annual premium in one lump instead of installments.
If you’re looking for ways to invest your tax refund, rather than making purchases, check my post on 7 Ways to Invest Your Tax Return. And don’t forget to pick up your copy of my FREE Guide: How to Make $1000 (…without daytrading stocks.)
Hopefully you’ve found some useful ideas in this list, or it’s inspired you for a fresh one of your own. Leave a comment below and let me know how you plan to deploy your refund this year. I’m rooting for you!
Love, Momma
P.S. I just uploaded a video to YouTube that covers these ideas, plus a couple of bonuses not found here on the blog. Check out the video!
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I will earn a small commission if you purchase an item through the links provided above.
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March 1, 2024Jump to Recipe
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Looking for a luscious breakfast that doesn’t break the bank? Trying to impress with a dessert while using pantry staples? Well look no further than this recipe for Shortcut Apple Crisp.
Why a shortcut? Because you use a flavored instant oatmeal packet as the basis for the crisp topping on top of your chopped apples. By using common flavors like Cinnamon and Spice or Maple and Brown Sugar, you add sweetness and flavor without having to stock extra ingredients. As an added bonus, if you already have the oatmeal at home, you can whip this up in minutes without having to do a shop.
Momma will absolutely make this for her breakfast on the weekends, but it is delicious enough to double as a dessert, especially with some cream or ice cream on top when it’s still warm.
Leave a comment below and let me know which flavor of oats is your favorite for this recipe.
And don’t forget to grab your FREE copy of my 30 Best Foods for a Budget. Both apples and oats are on the list!
Eat well, Momma
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Shortcut Apple CrispRecipe by HRM Coupon QueenCourse: BreakfastCuisine: HomestyleDifficulty: BeginnerServings2servingsPrep time5minutesCooking time30minutesThis recipe shortcuts the work of the apple crisp by using flavored instant oatmeal packets to make the crisp topping. It works for an indulgent breakfast or a simple yet impressive dessert.Ingredients2 apples1 Tablespoon flour1 Tablespoon brown sugardash or two of cinnamon, to taste1 teaspoon water2 packets instant oatmeal2 Tablespoons butterDirectionsPreheat oven to 375 degrees F.Dice apples. Peel or not, to personal preference.Toss apples with flour, sugar, and water.In a separate bowl, cut butter into oats, until mixture has coarse crumbles.Sprinkle oat crumbles over apples, covering fruit thoroughly.Bake crisp for 30 minutes.Serve with cream or ice cream, if desired.Recipe Video
Notes
Maple syrup, white sugar, coconut sugar, or honey can be used in place of brown sugar with the apples.If a more moist fruit layer is desired, add another teaspoon or two of water to the apples.Cold butter requires more work to cut into oats, but makes for a more crunchy topping.
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March 1, 2024There’s an old adage: “In like a lion, out like a lamb.” And while it’s talking about the variability of March weather, it can apply to what’s available in the markets too. March comes in as the tail end of winter, with its dwindling fresh options of produce, but it leaves us in the beginnings of spring. With the crossover into spring, more familiar and beloved fruits and veggies become available. The first true in-season strawberries start putting in their appearances. But the one I’m always most excited for? The asparagus. It’s always best in the spring and when I see the first young stalks in the stores, then I know spring has truly arrived. Keep an eye out also for Meyer lemons. They’re only in season a few more weeks.
VegetablesFruitAsparagusGrapefruitBroccoliKiwiCabbageLemonsCarrotsOrangesCeleryRhubarbKaleStrawberriesLettucePeasSpinach
In addition to these offerings, some produce is considered in season year round, thanks to trade and greenhouse cultivation, or their capability to be stored long-term. These can be affordable and a great way to bulk up your fruits and veggies. Examples: Potatoes, Onions, Garlic, Sweet Potatoes, Mushrooms, Bananas, and Apples.
Let me know what foods signal spring’s arrival for you!
Eat well! Momma
P.S. If you’re looking for more budget-friendly foods to cook with, pick up my FREE guide: 30 Best Groceries on a Budget.
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