I make sure i have something to eat in the house. Crackers cream cheese/ penutbutter, tinned tomatoes, pasta/homemade stews and soup in the freezer. Frozen fuits&yoghurt and muesli.
I get my groceries on Thursdays. When there are five Thursdays in a month I plan my meals based on what I already have in the house for that fifth week. That is when my pantry and freezer get cleaned out. This year there are 4 months that have 5 Thursdays. I think cleaning your pantry and freezer 4 times in one year is a good number. I’d like to challenge all of you to do the same. I actually look forward to it…it’s like a game to see what I can use up 😊.
I am right there with you Kate, if my kitchen isn't clean I don't want to cook because I have to clean first then cook just to clean again. When I keep the dishes done and the kitchen clean I enjoy being in the kitchen much more.
I ADORE those glass lid containers with the plastic snap lock lids! Foods stay fresh a lot longer (leftovers) and convenient fir my husband to take his lunch in. They are air tight and save money due to staying fresh longer! Also saves a lot of money on plastic wrap!
Monday I made chili, Tuesday we had chili dogs, Wednesday I came home and popped potatoes in the oven real quick and we had chili topped baked potatoes. It was delicious, and different each day, and easy.
OMG, my sink is always clean. I hate seeing dirty dishes in the sink. I clean dishes as I go. If I’m baking, the bowls get washed as the oven is doing the work. Makes my life so much easier when the sink is clean. Happy Birthday Kate🎉🎂
I have been preparing salads in containers with lettuce, tomato, cucumber, cheese cubes, olives, red pepper chunks. I add protein and dressing when ready to eat. I also can add avocado as well. I always have something ready to eat. I’ve been doing intermittent fasting lost 11 lbs in two weeks. Thanks for the tips Kate. Happy Birthday 🎉 🎈🥳
All great suggestions in this video. Design your systems that makes life easier! Keep your covers on your leftover containers so you never have to search for the cover. Glass containers in the square and rectangular shape stack better in storage or use. They are easier to clean as well. The food lasts longer. I store the in a big plastic bin in my cabinet with their covers ON and it makes life easier to pull out the bin to select the size I need. 👍
I completely agree with storing containers with the lids on. Dana K. White and The Minimal Mom do this for a different reason, but the outcome is amazing. Grabbing a container now is so simple. Trust me, it is life changing!
also, if the food DOES mold, you can wash out with boiling water and a few drops of bleach, and they’re good as new! unlike Tupperware-type containers!!!
Great tips Kate! Alongside the keeping your dishes/sink clean and clear; I also keep all my counter tops clean and clear,( bathrooms also). The same reasons apply. You are more likely to cook/prepare a meal if you don't have to clean the entire kitchen, and honestly, it doesn't take long to clean up as you go. Psychologically, it makes you feel great to see it all fresh for the next time. Set up your future self for happiness and a sense of pride! 😊
I found a WONDERFUL recipe for salad dressing on Pinterest and I LOVE it. It’s made from things we already had in our fridge and pantry. So now we’re doing a no-spend year of salad dressings.
House dressing 1/3 c red wine vinegar 2/3 c olive oil or avocado oil 1 T honey 1 T grainy mustard 1 teaspoon Himalayan pink salt 1 teaspoon black pepper Mix in small mason jar and enjoy! I keep mine on my countertop but it gets eaten in less than a week. Let me know how you like it. 😊
When I worked 3 jobs, meals started getting sandwiches & grab n go type foods from the fridge. Now that life screeched to a halt, pantry meals in a jar are most important.
I used to use a water bottle with a straw and then I was told I would end up with smokers mouth from sucking on my straw the same way you would suck on a cigarette. I did notice I was getting fine lines because I drink a ton of water, so I switched and I do not mind removing a top to avoid lines😊❤️
Great list! Here’s a way to take “promote your pantry” to the next level: before you go grocery shopping, Shop Your Pantry First. Start meal planning based on what you already have (in pantry, fridge, and freezer), THEN check sale flyers and fill in the gaps - all before you leave the house!
I put things back in the right place afther use, no searching for things, also in the fridge, cheese in this drawer, veg in another, yoghurt and Milk on their spot. No i am not autistic its a matter of clear view and on the grab.
All good suggestions. They may seem like no brainers but human nature being what it is, it’s easy to fall into those traps. I love an organized pantry. I periodically go thru mine and take everything off the shelves, wipe them down, clear out expired items and put everything back neatly. It always inspires me to cook more when my pantry isn’t a mess.
Love these ideas! We do most of them. I like the sink clean because I am a bit OCD and clean freak, but if it has dishes yep I have to wash before cooking even if it is only my coffee cup LOL. I still like going to the grocery store as I like to see what I am getting and dont like to pay the convenience fees. Also, it's the only time I really get to leave the house since I work from home
I was just hoping yesterday for kitchen tips to save money. And here you are! Synchronicity! You are so right: systems that ease the way are so freeing. And energy conserving. Example: I found an easy way to drain my cooked beans and now I put the saved nutritious liquid in a jar to use to cook other ingredients, such as left over rice. Just another way to get more mileage out of my food and avoid waste. I'm trying valiantly to buy only what I can use up. Great score yesterday: 10 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes for $2.44! Thanks so much for this video, Kate. Courage, and onward!
Just passing on a tip I read elsewhere. Think of yourself as two people: The AM self and the PM self. The AM self does stuff that benefits the PM self; e.g. makes the bed. The PM self does stuff that benefits the AM self; e.g, preps the coffee so that it is ready to go in the morning. I can tell you my AM loves my PM self. (The PM self is still getting used to the idea. She’s a bit crabby at times, but I tell her I love her for prepping that coffee pot.)
I get the sink thing. I hate dirty dishes in my sink and on my counter. I don't want to prepare food I am going to eat in a dirty enviroment. I am a big believer in clean as you go, too.
Happy Birthday! 🎂Part of my night time routine includes making sure my tea kettle has water and tea pot has fresh tea bags when I need to make a fresh pot (every other day?) so the morning is easier. I love having a tea station and batch cooking on Sundays!
I really love yourself thoughtfulness and thorough communication on these really great ideas. One health fact: all plastic Containers will have chemicals releasing into your foods, if they contain any fat or oil. This is even bigger when hot food is placed in plastic Containers and increases more through acidic ingredients (think tomatoes). And there is no differences in cheap or pricey quality. Sadly the same rings true for plastic wrap and with different chemicals: aluminium foil/Containers. Glass is best in this case. I store my Containers with lid on or next to each one so i dont have to hint for them.
Amen to keeping your sink clean! We now have a roommate so everyone is pitching in to keep the sink clean. It makes me so happy to have a clean kitchen! Peaceful ❤
For no spend January, I did spend but found a lot of yummy food in my freezer. It wasn't no spend but down 1, 500 spent compared to fall months, so YAY and thank you!
Recently I've been doing batch cooking, like you do on Sundays. I cook a meal that's enough food for 4 meals (Italian - spaghetti, (pasta included); Mexican (rice, beans, salsa, etc); salmon patties; chicken, rice, veggies, etc.). I eat one portion that day and freeze the others for later in the month.). The other days are soup and sandwiches. Every night I take something out of the freezer to thaw in the fridge until the next day. Sometimes I batch cook only one kind of meal. This plan has saved me a lot of time, money & frustration.
I hand wash and mostly air dry the dishes, pots, pans, snack plates/ bowls, glasses, and coffee cups. I am also quick to condense refridgeratir food into the smallest cintainer available. And, i havent had a good good cook day if i havent used darn near every bowl, pot, and pan in the kitchen.. My first step in the kitchen is to put away everything that is clean and dry; for goodness sake the last thing you want is a splatter requiring re-washing. The second thing I do is rubber patula and rinse as needed, soak as needed, organize, and stack what is dirty while setting up a dish pan for dishes. I may or may not do a load of dishes which will dry quickly before starting. Silverware, glasses, mugs, and cersmic/ glass dishes dry quickly. I do wipe down the counters before starting. I have a split sink and as needed, wash and scrub the "rinse sink" before starting; even if its "clean" if food stuffs are to touch it. Then the food prep begins which often includes refridgerator food storage; as i reduce volumes of food stuffs I move them into a smaller, clean container. By part way through, I'm often putting away dry dishes and washing another single layer of quick dries or beginning "the stack". For me, washing as I go is critical to keeping a handle on the kitchen "mess" by the time we go to the dinner table. I can generate a 3 layer stack in the dish drainer during that 10 minute cook time while making dinner. It depends upon what is sitting there. Just before eating, I immediately address the soaking needs etc... of any pots n pans. After eating, I usually address pots n pans first if there is any scrubbing to be done then wash the dish pan and scrub/ wash the sink, wipe down the stove, and refridgerator front/ door handle. Then its store left overs; depending upon the type and the amount of general clean up time, leftovers may come first. Pots n pans, prep bowls, and serving bowls may or may not get a final wash 'cause they do best as a top stacking layer, but I do use the stove top and sometimes the oven as drying places. Then the washing and dish drainer stacking begins. There have been times that I have kept a spare drainer stored atop the fridge and used atop or beside the stove. I wash, rinse, then initially stack in the drainer beside or in the sink. Once somewhat dry, I transfer to the spare drainer. I change my dish water somewhat frequently. Unless something is particularly baked or cooked on, I get my pots n pans washed and drying before I am done with the kitchen; sometimes I do a little towel drying to get this done. I scrub/ wash the dish pan, washing sink, and usually the rinsing/ soaking sink before I am done with the kitchen. I remove the dish pan from the sink even of i still have some stacked dishes, glasses, coffee mugs, et al in the sink; it keeps things from being slipped in and ensures i begin with a clean dish pan. This actually goes very quickly on a normal night or a quick night. I generally do 2 loads. One right before or during meal cooking. And 1 right after. Depending on what I'm prepping like say chopping veggies or setting up lunches, the second load is dry and put away by the end of the night in the 10 to 20 minutes spent. There was a time in which we could have a semi-routine extra 1 to 3 and upto 6 extra folks squished about the dinner table; mostly unplanned but one learned to plan for a meal expansion at the sound of footsteps approaching the door. This system worked even with extra dinner plates and in the kitchen chaos created while throwing extra food onto the table.
So true. I clean the kitchen right after dinner. If I leave something in the sink soaking, I clean it in the morning while coffee is brewing (put dishes away, etc)
I love my little coffee station! I worked at The Container Store years ago and got the cute little coffee set up area. I also love coffee shops, but it's SO not worth driving, stopping, parking, getting out, waiting in line! And paying for a nice coffee. I hear ya girl! ... And "staying out of the store" is me staying out of Home Goods.
Don't buy snack size food. Buy the regular size. For example. Buy a box of cheezits its and put portions in snack size baggies. Then put the baggies back in the cheeezits box. Grab and go when packing a lunch.
Inventory what you have,use it up,buy only what you know will be used. Cook large batches of food,break down into single portion containers, label,freeze. Always have emergency rations for when life is hectic, you're sick,etc
Making coffee at home but coffee from local roasters. Cup of coffee with 1/2 teaspoon of butter, coconut whipped cream and 1/2 and 1/2 and it’s tasty; like a latte. Without spending $ big bucks for a latte. I do buy my coffee in bulk bags locally but always make it at home.
Happy Birthday Kate 🎉❤🎂🎊🌸☕️ I feel like you’re such a friend that I even put your birthday in my calendar this year lol I’m mean i knew it but I added you to my planner and it was just like you’re like everybody’s buddy we love you happy birthday. Have a wonderful day.
Im reading a Real Estate book by Dave Ramsey and there's so much in the book I wish I knew ealier. Wisconsin had our first ever Februrary tornado yesterday. It was near my cousin. Happy Friday, Kate!
I save the takeout containers and use those and sometimes I ask my coworkers for them lol. When I bulk cook I freeze a single serving. If I got tired of something and didn't eat it all I freeze the rest of the servings individually. Sometimes I over prep by accident, so I'll freeze prepped ingredients. Freezer is always stocked for those busy weeks.
Your so funny about the sink 😂. I get what your saying though. I think this should include the whole house though. Some houses I have seen… 😮 I love keeping up with my housework. I feel for me it’s a great accomplishment.
Yes this is true.. Another tried and tested tip I always follow is NEVER shop (online or at the supermarket) on an empty stomach. I read this many years ago and have noticed the difference. Eat , feed whoever is involved in your shopping and then buy. I've noticed the difference in non grocery shopping too..dont ask me why it works.. it just does 😊
Fast home cook meals tip. Divide meat into portions (if you buy in bulk or cooking for only 1 or 2 persons) and label them if they are for stir fry, baking, slow cook or soup before putting them in the freezer. Plan your meals ahead daily if possible for a week to start a habit. Include leftovers if you have some so you don’t waste food. Thaw the meat in the fridge and prepare the recipe, and ingredients on the counter the night before so the next day you know what to cook and if you come home tired, you already have the ingredients ready. No need to look for the items you need. Just like preparing your clothes the night before so you are ready to go the next day. No need to think of what to wear in the morning because it’s already ready for you. I hope this helps. ❤❤❤
I think I said this before but maybe I just have bad luck. I have been disappointed with grocery pickup when the store repeatedly says it doesn't have an item, but then I go into the store and it surely does have it and I find the reduced priced product. (Happened with salad kits all the time during lock down.) And then another time when I sat in my car and waited 30 minutes for a small order. They texted me the order was ready. I texted them to say I was on my way. I texted when I arrived. They then called me to say they were a little behind and would grab my refrigerated items. 20 minutes later, they bring out my order. I only had one item that needed refrigeration. I haven't done a pick up since. Also, in my area, if I put in an order, I have to go through my whole order before it tells me I can't pick up the same day. I know that it makes sense not to go into the store, but it is hard to schedule a pick up and then still have to sit for so long. Time is valuable.
From at least one utuber, but they got the idea from a different utuber, I have taken to using re-usable shopping bags in our small chest freezer. They work well to contain packages of stuff by category. They also lift out of the freezer well and make getting the stuff at the bottom of the freezer much more possible and probable. The less expensive types made of the thinner fabric with the tiny holes are not holding up well; many were given to us with business logo's on them. So far, the plastic ones are working over the past few years but they are bigger amd jow they aren't near as inexpensive as they once were. I may switch to thrift store pillow cases with a fashioned draw string slipped into the hem; or at least try one out.
It's true that I eat far more veg/fruits when I prep them on Sunday and put in to-go containers. I will eat 2 cups of veggies on my way to work just because they are in a container in my cup holder!
I don't trust people who can't pronounce the "t" in a word, but I've watched a few of your videos, and I've decided to give it a go. Subscribed. This video was the best so far.
The sink thing is true! If i see a pile, there's no way I'm adding to it!😂 It makes it easy to order food and go off track because it's "avoiding the mess"
Keep your vegetable peeler sharp by using a metal nail file on the blades (watched a RUclips video to figure out to sharpen my peeler instead of buying another one)
I have a problem with extra containers to store or freeze leftovers in. My grandkids tend to raid the fridge and I never see the containers again!! As I don’t have dishwasher, doing dishes every day makes me feel like my kitchen has been cleaned at the end of the day.
Put the lids on the Tupperware when you put it away. I keep my recipe on the counter that I am going to make. Then I gradually get the ingredients out & put by recipe. I also get out the pan & butter or oil & flour etc. When it is time to cook everything is ready to go!
I Hate doing dishes. I totally agree that when we get to the mood of cooking sink full of pots and pans irritate me a lot. Clean sink also connect to good mood.
I work at a hospital/nursing home facility and they will be closing the kitchen for remodeling for most of 2024! They will not be serving hot food for staff, just for patients and residents. It's hilarious to listen to my coworkers bemoan the fact that they will either have to purchase cold food or make their own at home. 😂 I've been bringing my own lunches for years! As a result, I've been telling people about your channel and encouraging them to get with the program. Yes, they CAN, cook and prepare ahead. They just don't want to. I batch cook on Sundays for my freezer and store in containers like you showed. Love it! 😊
@@amiegamble1678 they do provide multiple microwaves, which is what I use when bringing my own food. My coworkers are used to hot food from the cafeteria line. They will only be able to purchase cold salads and sandwiches while the kitchen is closed.
Ummm have you been in my brain? This is exactly what I have been doing in January. 1 THE SINK THING!!! I have no dishwasher and 2 part time jobs on top of my full time high school teaching job. Dirty dishes cost me a fortune. Did dishes every night no matter how tired I was which meant I cooked every day. This single-handedly made my no spend possible. 2 Rolling home cooked meals into my nice easy containers meant everyone had lunch prepped every day. More savings! 3 I prep at least one big pot of something Sunday, and also make a pot of boiled eggs and a batch of Raisin Bran muffins every Sunday. This covers several meals and a snack each day at work which keeps me from running through drive thru. 4 Your hair and sweater today 🧑🏻🍳 😘
Hello beautiful frugal sister Kate, I needed this video very much today-All Great takeaways-I’ll be setting up a coffee station 🚉 for the first time and can’t wait for the ooohs and ahhhs of its time n money saving benefits it will bring to my life!! You are truly the bomb ❣️💣 and am so grateful for you!! I need to buy my k-squad sweatshirt!! Much love and blessings to you and your crew!!! ❤️🙏🦋🦋🦋
Wow when you was talking about having a clean sink or eating out I felt like I had a V-8 moment ( smack in the head for those who are young). ❤ Definitely meal plan & see what you have pn hand. I normalle buy my smoothie ingredients & make at home instead of premade ones at shop or grocery store. I lost my dad 2 weeks ago, so I'm given myself some grace for a while. Thanks for tips
100% the straw thing! Since I don't really want to drink the water anyway a cap absolutely will stop me. I drink so much more since I got a water bottle with a straw so I know that these small changes will work as well! Side note...I chuckle every time you mention how much you love grocery pick up. Those of us that are long term users tried to get you to try it for so long!! 😂
You can't get grocery pick up here in Spain, but I see the advantage in saving time and reducing the temptation to buy what you don't need. Do you have to pay a fee for this service, Kate? Great video as always.
I used to put leftovers all together in a big container, but now I put all leftovers in separate individual serving sizes: easy to grab, much easier to pack a lunch, more likely to get eaten up, I have a good sense of how much is left instead of a mostly empty large container. Great video!!
I started walking during my lunch one apple and one more piece of fruit I’m good. Then I come in have water later on around 5pm coffee with a small cookie sometimes 😊
I make sure i have something to eat in the house. Crackers cream cheese/ penutbutter, tinned tomatoes, pasta/homemade stews and soup in the freezer. Frozen fuits&yoghurt and muesli.
Pizza in the freeza!!!
@@m.connielillis7032 indeed🍕 always taste good😉
I get my groceries on Thursdays. When there are five Thursdays in a month I plan my meals based on what I already have in the house for that fifth week. That is when my pantry and freezer get cleaned out. This year there are 4 months that have 5 Thursdays. I think cleaning your pantry and freezer 4 times in one year is a good number. I’d like to challenge all of you to do the same. I actually look forward to it…it’s like a game to see what I can use up 😊.
This is a great idea!
Good idea! This saves one extra week on groceries! Woohoo!
LOVE IT!
That is a great idea!
I am right there with you Kate, if my kitchen isn't clean I don't want to cook because I have to clean first then cook just to clean again. When I keep the dishes done and the kitchen clean I enjoy being in the kitchen much more.
I ADORE those glass lid containers with the plastic snap lock lids! Foods stay fresh a lot longer (leftovers) and convenient fir my husband to take his lunch in. They are air tight and save money due to staying fresh longer! Also saves a lot of money on plastic wrap!
right there with you!
Monday I made chili, Tuesday we had chili dogs, Wednesday I came home and popped potatoes in the oven real quick and we had chili topped baked potatoes. It was delicious, and different each day, and easy.
OMG, my sink is always clean. I hate seeing dirty dishes in the sink. I clean dishes as I go. If I’m baking, the bowls get washed as the oven is doing the work. Makes my life so much easier when the sink is clean. Happy Birthday Kate🎉🎂
I have been preparing salads in containers with lettuce, tomato, cucumber,
cheese cubes, olives, red pepper chunks. I add protein and dressing when ready to eat. I also can add avocado as well. I always have something ready to eat. I’ve been doing intermittent fasting lost 11 lbs in two weeks. Thanks for the tips Kate. Happy Birthday 🎉 🎈🥳
All great suggestions in this video. Design your systems that makes life easier! Keep your covers on your leftover containers so you never have to search for the cover. Glass containers in the square and rectangular shape stack better in storage or use. They are easier to clean as well. The food lasts longer. I store the in a big plastic bin in my cabinet with their covers ON and it makes life easier to pull out the bin to select the size I need. 👍
I completely agree with storing containers with the lids on. Dana K. White and The Minimal Mom do this for a different reason, but the outcome is amazing. Grabbing a container now is so simple. Trust me, it is life changing!
@pjlacey3990 it really is. I resisted trying this for so many years. I would never go back now lol
also, if the food DOES mold, you can wash out with boiling water and a few drops of bleach, and they’re good as new! unlike Tupperware-type containers!!!
The sink idea is brilliant!
Thank you so much Crystal!!!!
Great tips Kate! Alongside the keeping your dishes/sink clean and clear; I also keep all my counter tops clean and clear,( bathrooms also). The same reasons apply. You are more likely to cook/prepare a meal if you don't have to clean the entire kitchen, and honestly, it doesn't take long to clean up as you go. Psychologically, it makes you feel great to see it all fresh for the next time. Set up your future self for happiness and a sense of pride! 😊
I found a WONDERFUL recipe for salad dressing on Pinterest and I LOVE it. It’s made from things we already had in our fridge and pantry. So now we’re doing a no-spend year of salad dressings.
Would love to see the recipe
Can you please share the recipe? Thanks in advance! ❤
House dressing
1/3 c red wine vinegar
2/3 c olive oil or avocado oil
1 T honey
1 T grainy mustard
1 teaspoon Himalayan pink salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
Mix in small mason jar and enjoy! I keep mine on my countertop but it gets eaten in less than a week.
Let me know how you like it. 😊
When I worked 3 jobs, meals started getting sandwiches & grab n go type foods from the fridge. Now that life screeched to a halt, pantry meals in a jar are most important.
I used to use a water bottle with a straw and then I was told I would end up with smokers mouth from sucking on my straw the same way you would suck on a cigarette. I did notice I was getting fine lines because I drink a ton of water, so I switched and I do not mind removing a top to avoid lines😊❤️
I have a coffee machine at work and at home so I never have to get a takeaway coffee. Has saved me so much time and money over the last 5-6 years!
Great list! Here’s a way to take “promote your pantry” to the next level: before you go grocery shopping, Shop Your Pantry First. Start meal planning based on what you already have (in pantry, fridge, and freezer), THEN check sale flyers and fill in the gaps - all before you leave the house!
I put things back in the right place afther use, no searching for things, also in the fridge, cheese in this drawer, veg in another, yoghurt and Milk on their spot. No i am not autistic its a matter of clear view and on the grab.
My Tupperware lids have a date with the other sock missing from laundry 😂
All good suggestions. They may seem like no brainers but human nature being what it is, it’s easy to fall into those traps. I love an organized pantry. I periodically go thru mine and take everything off the shelves, wipe them down, clear out expired items and put everything back neatly. It always inspires me to cook more when my pantry isn’t a mess.
Love these ideas! We do most of them. I like the sink clean because I am a bit OCD and clean freak, but if it has dishes yep I have to wash before cooking even if it is only my coffee cup LOL. I still like going to the grocery store as I like to see what I am getting and dont like to pay the convenience fees. Also, it's the only time I really get to leave the house since I work from home
Thank you Shelly!
I was just hoping yesterday for kitchen tips to save money. And here you are! Synchronicity! You are so right: systems that ease the way are so freeing. And energy conserving. Example: I found an easy way to drain my cooked beans and now I put the saved nutritious liquid in a jar to use to cook other ingredients, such as left over rice. Just another way to get more mileage out of my food and avoid waste. I'm trying valiantly to buy only what I can use up. Great score yesterday: 10 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes for $2.44! Thanks so much for this video, Kate. Courage, and onward!
Just passing on a tip I read elsewhere.
Think of yourself as two people: The AM self and the PM self. The AM self does stuff that benefits the PM self; e.g. makes the bed. The PM self does stuff that benefits the AM self; e.g, preps the coffee so that it is ready to go in the morning. I can tell you my AM loves my PM self. (The PM self is still getting used to the idea. She’s a bit crabby at times, but I tell her I love her for prepping that coffee pot.)
YES, love it!!!!! (HAHA! and I love her for prepping the coffee too!)
Keeping the sink clean is such a great habit! You are right about the whole mindset. It's simple and effective.
Thank you Janice!!!
Happy Birthday Kate! Enjoy your day!🎈🎈
Thank you!! 😊
Happy Birthday 🎉
I get the sink thing. I hate dirty dishes in my sink and on my counter. I don't want to prepare food I am going to eat in a dirty enviroment. I am a big believer in clean as you go, too.
Happy Birthday! 🎂Part of my night time routine includes making sure my tea kettle has water and tea pot has fresh tea bags when I need to make a fresh pot (every other day?) so the morning is easier. I love having a tea station and batch cooking on Sundays!
Thank you!!!!
The new Drive thru meals = pre-order and pick up groceries on the way home.
Happy Birthday Kate🤩🥳🎉. YES on the clean sink! It’s so frustrating going to start dinner and see the dirty dishes my kids have left in the sink.
No spend January 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉I did it!!!!!🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉 Great feeling!!
Thanks for always serving ideas on finance Sunny Side Up.
(a little kitchen humor)
Happy Birthday🎉
Thank you!
I really love yourself thoughtfulness and thorough communication on these really great ideas.
One health fact: all plastic Containers will have chemicals releasing into your foods, if they contain any fat or oil. This is even bigger when hot food is placed in plastic Containers and increases more through acidic ingredients (think tomatoes). And there is no differences in cheap or pricey quality. Sadly the same rings true for plastic wrap and with different chemicals: aluminium foil/Containers.
Glass is best in this case.
I store my Containers with lid on or next to each one so i dont have to hint for them.
Thank you so so much Christine!
Amen to keeping your sink clean! We now have a roommate so everyone is pitching in to keep the sink clean. It makes me so happy to have a clean kitchen! Peaceful ❤
I have those glass containers with lids from Sam's club I love them you can put leftovers in them for the freezer 😊
For no spend January, I did spend but found a lot of yummy food in my freezer. It wasn't no spend but down 1, 500 spent compared to fall months, so YAY and thank you!
I have a small freezer and pantry stock lists so i dont have to dive in to know what i have and might be what i fancy..
Another one! Incredible. The smallest, most common, and thus easily overlooked items probably have the most impact on turning our lives right around.
Recently I've been doing batch cooking, like you do on Sundays. I cook a meal that's enough food for 4 meals (Italian - spaghetti, (pasta included); Mexican (rice, beans, salsa, etc); salmon patties; chicken, rice, veggies, etc.). I eat one portion that day and freeze the others for later in the month.). The other days are soup and sandwiches. Every night I take something out of the freezer to thaw in the fridge until the next day. Sometimes I batch cook only one kind of meal. This plan has saved me a lot of time, money & frustration.
Happy Birthday Kate and thanks sooo much for all the great tips!
Hey Kate, i did 29 days no spend. I only spent £10 or $12.64. I was able to make a very large silver investment, though with my savings x
YASSS!!!!!
Happy Birthday Kate! 🎂Enjoy your special day.
Happy Birthday Kate 🎂 🥳 🎉 🎈 🎁 hope you have a fantastic day 🙂
Thank you so so much!
@@KateKaden you're welcome 😀 🎂 🥳 🎉
I hand wash and mostly air dry the dishes, pots, pans, snack plates/ bowls, glasses, and coffee cups. I am also quick to condense refridgeratir food into the smallest cintainer available. And, i havent had a good good cook day if i havent used darn near every bowl, pot, and pan in the kitchen.. My first step in the kitchen is to put away everything that is clean and dry; for goodness sake the last thing you want is a splatter requiring re-washing. The second thing I do is rubber patula and rinse as needed, soak as needed, organize, and stack what is dirty while setting up a dish pan for dishes.
I may or may not do a load of dishes which will dry quickly before starting. Silverware, glasses, mugs, and cersmic/ glass dishes dry quickly. I do wipe down the counters before starting. I have a split sink and as needed, wash and scrub the "rinse sink" before starting; even if its "clean" if food stuffs are to touch it. Then the food prep begins which often includes refridgerator food storage; as i reduce volumes of food stuffs I move them into a smaller, clean container. By part way through, I'm often putting away dry dishes and washing another single layer of quick dries or beginning "the stack". For me, washing as I go is critical to keeping a handle on the kitchen "mess" by the time we go to the dinner table. I can generate a 3 layer stack in the dish drainer during that 10 minute cook time while making dinner. It depends upon what is sitting there.
Just before eating, I immediately address the soaking needs etc... of any pots n pans. After eating, I usually address pots n pans first if there is any scrubbing to be done then wash the dish pan and scrub/ wash the sink, wipe down the stove, and refridgerator front/ door handle. Then its store left overs; depending upon the type and the amount of general clean up time, leftovers may come first. Pots n pans, prep bowls, and serving bowls may or may not get a final wash 'cause they do best as a top stacking layer, but I do use the stove top and sometimes the oven as drying places. Then the washing and dish drainer stacking begins. There have been times that I have kept a spare drainer stored atop the fridge and used atop or beside the stove. I wash, rinse, then initially stack in the drainer beside or in the sink. Once somewhat dry, I transfer to the spare drainer. I change my dish water somewhat frequently. Unless something is particularly baked or cooked on, I get my pots n pans washed and drying before I am done with the kitchen; sometimes I do a little towel drying to get this done. I scrub/ wash the dish pan, washing sink, and usually the rinsing/ soaking sink before I am done with the kitchen. I remove the dish pan from the sink even of i still have some stacked dishes, glasses, coffee mugs, et al in the sink; it keeps things from being slipped in and ensures i begin with a clean dish pan.
This actually goes very quickly on a normal night or a quick night. I generally do 2 loads. One right before or during meal cooking. And 1 right after. Depending on what I'm prepping like say chopping veggies or setting up lunches, the second load is dry and put away by the end of the night in the 10 to 20 minutes spent. There was a time in which we could have a semi-routine extra 1 to 3 and upto 6 extra folks squished about the dinner table; mostly unplanned but one learned to plan for a meal expansion at the sound of footsteps approaching the door. This system worked even with extra dinner plates and in the kitchen chaos created while throwing extra food onto the table.
So true. I clean the kitchen right after dinner. If I leave something in the sink soaking, I clean it in the morning while coffee is brewing (put dishes away, etc)
I love my little coffee station! I worked at The Container Store years ago and got the cute little coffee set up area. I also love coffee shops, but it's SO not worth driving, stopping, parking, getting out, waiting in line! And paying for a nice coffee. I hear ya girl! ... And "staying out of the store" is me staying out of Home Goods.
Different topic but I FINALLY dropped my cable. Internet only.
Don't buy snack size food. Buy the regular size. For example. Buy a box of cheezits its and put portions in snack size baggies. Then put the baggies back in the cheeezits box. Grab and go when packing a lunch.
Happy birthday Kate! 🎉❤ Thanks for all that you do for us so passionately ☺️
Thank you so much!! I appreciate you!
Happy birthday 🎈
Ditto!❤
Inventory what you have,use it up,buy only what you know will be used.
Cook large batches of food,break down into single portion containers, label,freeze.
Always have emergency rations for when life is hectic, you're sick,etc
Making coffee at home but coffee from local roasters. Cup of coffee with 1/2 teaspoon of butter, coconut whipped cream and 1/2 and 1/2 and it’s tasty; like a latte. Without spending $ big bucks for a latte. I do buy my coffee in bulk bags locally but always make it at home.
Happy Birthday Kate 🎉❤🎂🎊🌸☕️ I feel like you’re such a friend that I even put your birthday in my calendar this year lol I’m mean i knew it but I added you to my planner and it was just like you’re like everybody’s buddy we love you happy birthday. Have a wonderful day.
Im reading a Real Estate book by Dave Ramsey and there's so much in the book I wish I knew ealier.
Wisconsin had our first ever Februrary tornado yesterday. It was near my cousin.
Happy Friday, Kate!
I save the takeout containers and use those and sometimes I ask my coworkers for them lol. When I bulk cook I freeze a single serving. If I got tired of something and didn't eat it all I freeze the rest of the servings individually. Sometimes I over prep by accident, so I'll freeze prepped ingredients. Freezer is always stocked for those busy weeks.
I'm making multiple meals using instant pot, air fryer, and regular pot on the stove on my Sunday, which is Wednesday morning 🌄😊
Your so funny about the sink 😂. I get what your saying though. I think this should include the whole house though. Some houses I have seen… 😮 I love keeping up with my housework. I feel for me it’s a great accomplishment.
Yes this is true..
Another tried and tested tip I always follow is NEVER shop (online or at the supermarket) on an empty stomach. I read this many years ago and have noticed the difference. Eat , feed whoever is involved in your shopping and then buy. I've noticed the difference in non grocery shopping too..dont ask me why it works.. it just does 😊
I have matched up, easy to use glass containers but how do I get my husband to use them? Everything goes in a ziplock bag 😮
Yes! Package up the leftovers and actually use them. Don’t throw away 💵 Make your own cold brew-don’t buy it. Make your foo-foo coffee at home.
Good morning and Happy Friday😊😊😊🎉
Fast home cook meals tip. Divide meat into portions (if you buy in bulk or cooking for only 1 or 2 persons) and label them if they are for stir fry, baking, slow cook or soup before putting them in the freezer. Plan your meals ahead daily if possible for a week to start a habit. Include leftovers if you have some so you don’t waste food. Thaw the meat in the fridge and prepare the recipe, and ingredients on the counter the night before so the next day you know what to cook and if you come home tired, you already have the ingredients ready. No need to look for the items you need. Just like preparing your clothes the night before so you are ready to go the next day. No need to think of what to wear in the morning because it’s already ready for you. I hope this helps. ❤❤❤
I think I said this before but maybe I just have bad luck. I have been disappointed with grocery pickup when the store repeatedly says it doesn't have an item, but then I go into the store and it surely does have it and I find the reduced priced product. (Happened with salad kits all the time during lock down.) And then another time when I sat in my car and waited 30 minutes for a small order. They texted me the order was ready. I texted them to say I was on my way. I texted when I arrived. They then called me to say they were a little behind and would grab my refrigerated items. 20 minutes later, they bring out my order. I only had one item that needed refrigeration. I haven't done a pick up since. Also, in my area, if I put in an order, I have to go through my whole order before it tells me I can't pick up the same day. I know that it makes sense not to go into the store, but it is hard to schedule a pick up and then still have to sit for so long. Time is valuable.
From at least one utuber, but they got the idea from a different utuber, I have taken to using re-usable shopping bags in our small chest freezer. They work well to contain packages of stuff by category. They also lift out of the freezer well and make getting the stuff at the bottom of the freezer much more possible and probable. The less expensive types made of the thinner fabric with the tiny holes are not holding up well; many were given to us with business logo's on them. So far, the plastic ones are working over the past few years but they are bigger amd jow they aren't near as inexpensive as they once were. I may switch to thrift store pillow cases with a fashioned draw string slipped into the hem; or at least try one out.
It's true that I eat far more veg/fruits when I prep them on Sunday and put in to-go containers. I will eat 2 cups of veggies on my way to work just because they are in a container in my cup holder!
I don't trust people who can't pronounce the "t" in a word, but I've watched a few of your videos, and I've decided to give it a go. Subscribed. This video was the best so far.
I love grocery delivery, our household qualified for reduced cost walmart+ because my husband is on ssdi
Make sure to re-use those containers too - no filling up the landfill with "disposable" plastic every day
The sink thing is true! If i see a pile, there's no way I'm adding to it!😂 It makes it easy to order food and go off track because it's "avoiding the mess"
Keep your vegetable peeler sharp by using a metal nail file on the blades (watched a RUclips video to figure out to sharpen my peeler instead of buying another one)
I have a problem with extra containers to store or freeze leftovers in. My grandkids tend to raid the fridge and I never see the containers again!!
As I don’t have dishwasher, doing dishes every day makes me feel like my kitchen has been cleaned at the end of the day.
Put the lids on the Tupperware when you put it away. I keep my recipe on the counter that I am going to make. Then I gradually get the ingredients out & put by recipe. I also get out the pan & butter or oil & flour etc. When it is time to cook everything is ready to go!
Same, I can't cook in a messy kitchen. I wash the dishes after each meal and clean as I go when making dinner. Saves so much stress!
Hate that I miss the live every Friday morning because I have to start my bus run at 6:25am!
We will miss you!!!!!!
@@KateKaden ❤️
I keep a dish pan in my sink, and I clean as I go, throughout the day. The first item I need to rinse, I fill the dish pan with hot sudsy water.
I use glass containers and put a piece of plastic wrap over the glass then put the rubber lid on. That way i don’t get a stained lid with an Oder.
I’m fortunate enough to have a dishwasher so the first step in the struggle always for me is to get myself to unload the dishwasher😄
Yep. It's a major drag to cook in a messy kitchen.
I Hate doing dishes. I totally agree that when we get to the mood of cooking sink full of pots and pans irritate me a lot. Clean sink also connect to good mood.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! 🎉 Wonderful tips today!
Thank you so much Martha!
Happy birthday you beautiful lady ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
I live on 1000 a month. Any idea how to save money.. I am on ssi so working not a option.
I no like plastic containers , better invest in a glass container more money at front but last years
Great ideas! Took notes.
So glad it was helpful! Thanks Karen!
My kitchen sink is always clean. I wash things as we use it or it goes in the dishwasher.
3:30 😂 I keep it clean because I cook less so I eat less lol
Now I gotta buy some Bento type boxes 🥰
I work at a hospital/nursing home facility and they will be closing the kitchen for remodeling for most of 2024! They will not be serving hot food for staff, just for patients and residents. It's hilarious to listen to my coworkers bemoan the fact that they will either have to purchase cold food or make their own at home. 😂 I've been bringing my own lunches for years! As a result, I've been telling people about your channel and encouraging them to get with the program. Yes, they CAN, cook and prepare ahead. They just don't want to. I batch cook on Sundays for my freezer and store in containers like you showed. Love it! 😊
Will you still have microwaves in your break room? If not ask work if they can get one (or two if a larger facility).
@@amiegamble1678 they do provide multiple microwaves, which is what I use when bringing my own food. My coworkers are used to hot food from the cafeteria line. They will only be able to purchase cold salads and sandwiches while the kitchen is closed.
Do my best to joint to day🎉
Thank you! Hope I get to see you!!!
Ummm have you been in my brain? This is exactly what I have been doing in January.
1 THE SINK THING!!! I have no dishwasher and 2 part time jobs on top of my full time high school teaching job. Dirty dishes cost me a fortune. Did dishes every night no matter how tired I was which meant I cooked every day. This single-handedly made my no spend possible.
2 Rolling home cooked meals into my nice easy containers meant everyone had lunch prepped every day. More savings!
3 I prep at least one big pot of something Sunday, and also make a pot of boiled eggs and a batch of Raisin Bran muffins every Sunday. This covers several meals and a snack each day at work which keeps me from running through drive thru.
4 Your hair and sweater today 🧑🏻🍳 😘
THANK YOU SO MUCH!
Hello beautiful frugal sister Kate,
I needed this video very much today-All Great takeaways-I’ll be setting up a coffee station 🚉 for the first time and can’t wait for the ooohs and ahhhs of its time n money saving benefits it will bring to my life!!
You are truly the bomb ❣️💣 and am so grateful for you!!
I need to buy my k-squad sweatshirt!!
Much love and blessings to you and your crew!!!
❤️🙏🦋🦋🦋
Damaris, I'm grateful for YOU! Thank youuuu!
"Guard your sink. " Such a helpful tip. This will help me! Thank you!
You are very welcome!
Wow when you was talking about having a clean sink or eating out I felt like I had a V-8 moment ( smack in the head for those who are young). ❤ Definitely meal plan & see what you have pn hand. I normalle buy my smoothie ingredients & make at home instead of premade ones at shop or grocery store. I lost my dad 2 weeks ago, so I'm given myself some grace for a while. Thanks for tips
Brenda, I am so sorry for your loss. I'm thinking about you and sending you so much love from Maine.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY🎉❤😂
THANK YOU KK!
I almost always batch cook on Sundays. It helps with upcoming meals for my work week.
Love that!
100% the straw thing! Since I don't really want to drink the water anyway a cap absolutely will stop me. I drink so much more since I got a water bottle with a straw so I know that these small changes will work as well! Side note...I chuckle every time you mention how much you love grocery pick up. Those of us that are long term users tried to get you to try it for so long!! 😂
And you were RIGHT! LOL!!!!!!!!! It's so great!
Love a clean sink. It doesn't always happen, but I'm much more productive in the kitchen when I have a clean sink and countertops.
Totally!
Happy birthday!
So glad to start the day with you all!
You can't get grocery pick up here in Spain, but I see the advantage in saving time and reducing the temptation to buy what you don't need. Do you have to pay a fee for this service, Kate? Great video as always.
At my store if you spend a certain amount, it's FREE and I always spend that amount:) But if I didn't, it's $2!!!! SO WORTH IT:)
I used to put leftovers all together in a big container, but now I put all leftovers in separate individual serving sizes: easy to grab, much easier to pack a lunch, more likely to get eaten up, I have a good sense of how much is left instead of a mostly empty large container.
Great video!!
If I have a clean kitchen, I am more likely to cook and less likely to order takeaway. Definitely cheaper.
Totally🙏🩷
I started walking during my lunch one apple and one more piece of fruit I’m good. Then I come in have water later on around 5pm coffee with a small cookie sometimes 😊
Love it!
LOL Stapler story, love it.
See you soon! 😊😊😊
Yesss!!!!