I used to hate grocery shopping. I would go into the store thinking it would be a 15 minute trip and it would turn into 40 minutes. I would go in for two things but leave with a cart full, and somehow I would always end up forgetting that one essential thing that I needed in the first place. Since I used to work in a grocery store and now shop for myself, I've come up with a few tips and tricks that will help you make your shopping simpler.
Tip #1: Make a list of the things that you need and stick to it!
This is one of my most important rules I have for myself, and I know it works. I have gone shopping with and without a grocery list, and without a list I always end up forgetting what I need and end up buying things that I do not. If it's not on the list, I tell myself I don't need it! Type it, write it, text it to yourself... whatever is easiest for you, but make a list and stick to it.
You don't even want to know how many random food itemss I have in my pantry that at the time seemed like I needed them. They are now collecting dust and still waiting for me to use them. Sticking to your list will also help you save money. As someone who lives on a tight budget, I understand how much a good deal really is.
Tip #2: Shop before you grocery shop.
Grocery stores spend thousands of dollars sending out inserts and flyers through the mail and in newspapers on special deals they have that week. A lot of stores have that information available online as well, you just have to look for it. Take advantage of those deals and schedule your grocery trips for the days of the deals in order to save money.
But just because five stores are advertising deals, stick with as few stores as possible to consolidate your time and money. I tend to go to one or two stores, maybe three if it is for a specialty item I know only that store is going to have. I typically plan the meals that I am going to make that week according to the produce that they have on sale that week.
Tip #3: Plan more shop less.
This is one thing that I got into the habit of doing just because I have a schedule that really does not allow me to shop every day or every other day like some people like to do. So I look at the flyers of my favorite stores, decide which store has earned the title of “the chosen one” for that week based on their deals and then I plan my meals off of what they have to offer. I have been shopping at these store for a while so I am familiar with what they carry so I know if the meals I have picked will work. I then make my list of all the things that I will need to make these meals and go shopping.
I hope these tips will help you save time and money. I didn't mention shopping at your local farmers' market, but you can often find incredible deals on produce there as well. A CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) box is another option if you like to experiment with seasonal produce. If you aren't sure about how to cook what you get in your share, The Chopping Block is offering a new demonstration cooking class called Making the Most of your CSA Box in June at our Lincoln Square location. This class is ideal for those who subscribe to a CSA program, shop at farmers markets, grow their own vegetables or just want to learn more about cooking with fresh produce.
