You cook like I did when I was broke as a joke. I fed me and my daughter off of rice, beans, lentils, eggs, and veggies with the occasional fish, chicken, or turkey because we don't eat meat. I made $136.00 a month from an EBT card and whatever I could get from the food bank once a month and made it stretch as far as I could. We ate pretty much 1 or 2 meals a day. We had rice with just about everything because it makes a great filler as do beans. I kept potatoes in the house as well. I'd pick up 2 5 lbs bags each month because at our store it was buy 1 get 1 free. I'd make my own bread with the flour I bought and would pick up canned veggies for 40c a can to cook with. For the occasional dessert, I'd buy the $1 cake or brownie mixes. We had to live this way for more than 2 years after my husband died from cancer. It was hard and not having the money to buy the things we wanted was a little disappointing but we were fine with what we did have. Thank you so much for doing this video because there are many people out there struggling with very little money to eat on. Thankfully I grew up a poor southerner and my Mother taught us early how to make a dollar stretch. But so many these days haven't had to feel that pinch until recently and videos like these are a tremendous help. God Bless you for thinking of others.
I teach basic nutrition for people who received food assistance. I AM SO PROUD of how you added real whole foods to your week. Beans, lentils, rice, frozen vegetables, and more. You could have easily chosen highly processed food, but you didn't. Really great job!
God bless this woman for making her recipes very cheap to afford for the poor and struggling. She looks so happy eating her own meals when she is done. It's not easy being poor and trying to find foods to fit your budget. But she has managed!!!
Bad ass job on this video. I grew up poor and this brought me back to a time when warm food in my stomach changed my day from shit to sunshine. I hope you win the lottery
I receive food stamps as a low income senior so I have to make ever dollar count. I also do not drive so I walk to our local Dollar Tree or Dollar General for all my grocery needs. I so appreciate these grocery hauls & recipe ideas! Thank you!
Dollar Tree literally saved my life when I was going through a rough patch. I don't need them like I did once, but you can still find great value there.
I was very impressed by this video and I compliment Ms. Dawn for several reasons: 1. She is very down-to-earth and realistic in showing her actual kitchen tools ( cast iron skillet that is older and a bit scuffed, kitchen counter that is clean but a little discolored by time); this makes her relate to real folks. 2. She owns up and shares small errors like forgetting to add the veggies to one dish and pausing the cooking to add them. This is how we all really cook and why I feel Ms. Dawn does an excellent job.
If you've got just a few more dollars and you go to a discount grocer like Sav-a-Lot or Aldi's, you can add a bag of onions, a bag of apples, a bag of potatoes, two cans of tuna, and a couple of cans of crushed tomatoes or tomato paste for about $12 and the next week you won't need to spend that whole $12 because you'll still have at least half the potatoes and more than half of the onions. Those weeks you can also buy some pasta and that's when you'll be able to use the onions. and tomatoes with your spices to make pasta sauce. Or if you have one more bag of pinto beans you can use half of that plus your tomatoes and onions to make chili. Maybe you alternate between sweet potatoes and white potatoes when you got the sweet potatoes you can eat them microwave with butter and cinnamon or you can even make sweet potato pie with them. Raisins aren't cheap but they sure go a long ways to add flavor to things and they're a nice addition to a lunch for the kids. In fact a peanut butter and raisins sandwich is pretty darn good. Bananas are cheap and they go great of course plane or in serial including in oatmeal and the peanut butter and banana sandwich is yummy and nutritious. A bunch of celery at Aldi's is about a dollar 49 and peanut butter on a stalk of celery is amazingly yummy. Somehow the celery taste sweet when you eat it with the peanut butter and it's nothing like you would imagine. Kids might be reluctant to try it the once they do they'll ask for it. If you've got cabbage potatoes onions tomatoes you have vegetable soup and that's a good time to use your little bit of neat because it goes a long way in a suit just like if you're going to use tease you don't want to use it on a sandwich at that will use it right up but a little cheese with the tuna and pasta and you've got a yummy dinner! If you also buy a large container of old fashioned oatmeal that's $2 and you can feed two kids for a month of breakfast's on that oatmeal. If you have enough money to buy a jar of peanut butter and another carton of eggs you can make everything from tuna salad to omelettes. You can slice the apples up and cook them with cinnamon, you can put them whole in. lunch buckets or sliced with peanut butter. You can dice them into oatmeal with cinnamon. You can dice them into pancakes are put cinnamon applesauce on top of the pancakes. You can peel them and boil them and mash them into applesauce which also makes a great topping for pancakes or ingredient for apple cake. It doesn't add nutrition but if your kids don't like playing eggs buying a bottle of bacon bits type Salad Topping can add that bacon flavor to them enough that they will enjoy eating them on a sandwich.
I'm fortunate I don't *need* to cook "struggle meals" anymore, but I choose not to forget where I came from, which was from a poor family. A slice of white bread and a frozen salisbury steak were dinner for many a night. These meals you've made are so many steps above those my mom tried to craft for us kids from what she had on hand. Thank you for making tasty, generally healthy meals available to the masses. Cheers!
Thank you for admonishing folks who need help to ask for it. My wife and I found ourselves in need of help about 10 years ago. We have four children, and work was scarce. Truly scarce. We used the food banks, soup kitchens, food stamps and a few other programs. Eventually, we both landed decent jobs, and we weened ourselves off of assistance. Was it humbling to eat at the soup kitchen? Yes, but we were very thankful it was there. We probably got off assistance earlier than we 'should' have, but I desperately wanted to be on my own two feet. Not everybody on assistance is abusing the system, nor are they, necessarily, lazy. Sometimes things go sideways, and we need a hand.
Glad things eased up for you. So frustrated with the perception that most people are abusing the system. Does that happen? Sure! But the vast majority of people I came in contact with when I was working in that system were truly doing their best. Unfortunately the few abusers get most of the press.
Almost no one is abusing it. There's propaganda against support systems because some people want to reroute that money to tax cuts and corporate subsidies
I lived on Dollar Tree for an entire Year. My grocery budget only allowed 20-25 dollars every two weeks (sometimes way less) for one person and I made it stretch. Hunger is real. Great job!!!!!
It's definitely not easy to live on such a low budget, especially for so long. I hope you're in a better position now and eating well! Thanks for watching
@@ThatLisaDawn It is easy. It’s only not easy if u make it that way. I spend wayyy less than that but not because I have too. Just shows if I had to then it would be rlly easy. Stop pretending that it’s not.
Thats about the same I have for an entire month and some of that I dont spend on food, some is for soap, clothes, shoes, medicine, hobbies, bus money or saving for unforseen expenses. And I dont get free food, so yeah its good to remind ourselves when we feel sorry for ourselves that there are almost always others who has it even worse then you. I have more food then what I need on 40 dollar/ month and I never felt like I dont eat what I want, i eat shrimp, caviar, crabfish, ”expensive” meat, fresh vegetables and more. And I buy the more expensive cup noodles( usually 2 for 4-5 dollars). I never really felt like I lacked something exept for maybe going out to eat and/or drinking alcohol( but I didint drink before either). Im a Chef so my meals tend to taste great anyway and I make resturant worthy foods all the time so I dont really miss the take out all that much, but sometimes I miss the cheap pizza flavour if you know what I talk about.
As a professional chef who grew up poor I have always been annoyed with people that say I am poor I cannot feed myself. You have just proven that it can be done for less than one would spend on one fast food meal. Well done!
Apparently you weren't truly poor. There were times we literally ate scraps that were leftover from school, because there was $0 money for weeks at a time. So, yeah, you can be so poor you can't feed yourself.
Just a note that this person's great and helpful video content still isn't an excuse to be a judgmental person about the lives of others. The people you're "annoyed with" may have other issues at play in their lives you aren't privy to. A meal plan like this looks different for someone who lives in their car or in a motel, someone who has kids to feed, someone who has food allergies, etc, etc. You're probably going to clap back to this like I'm insulting you, but I'm not - just asking you to open your mind.
I appreciate that! This was the second video I uploaded but the first I filmed, so I was feeling pretty nervous and self conscious! I'm feeling a lot more comfortable about it now 🙂
Seriously!! You are so right! I immediately loved her for being real and like most ppl.😍😍 I paused the vid just to find a comment like yours.🤗 I live in California in a townhouse it's not modern but I'm humble and proud. We will get a house soon. Its expensive for a shack out here, seriously. So I know my new house will have plenty of old character for over half a million $$🙄🤭😁😁
@@judyapplepie4344 I think she's referring to the "fancy" people with perfect granite countertops and brand new state-of-the-art appliances who aren't very relatable to those of us with limited income and resources.
Your video made me feel appreciative of the blessings I have. I don’t have to eat on $10 a week, but if I did, I would follow your advise. You are a star.
This girl is damn smart. Good for her for being so thrifty and efficient. She's a good find- someone who isn't a snob and just makes sense about this. And can cook.
I've recently been humbled financially and it's so beautiful to read such support and honesty in the comments. This is very real what many of us are going through. Blessings to all on this journey 💕
I’m sure you know that your worth is not tied to your finances and environment. May God bless and keep you as you adjust to less right now. Remember things don’t have to remain the same forever. Nothing does. And there is also always hope that the situation will change for the better. You can take such steps as you can to improve your finances and there is always help in even smallish communities if you don’t let pride hold you back. Best of wishes to you.
I recently spent $60 on what should have been a $45 trip to the market, and I live in east Texas, where the cost of living is super low. These videos are about to be relevant to everyone. I really believe that the folks who can survive on $10 a week from DT are going to be the ones who survive the longest when times get tough. Great videos; you’ve earned a new subscriber! ❤️
I don't see people starving in another depression, but thriving is another story. With everything going up (although housing may be slowly falling for buyers at least) stretching the paycheck is the difference between comfort and crazy stress.
Well, it's $12.50, now, but, yes. My parents grew up during the Great Depression, and got by on cornbread, potatoes, dried beans, and whatever they could grow in their garden (including eggs and milk.) To be honest, my father's family didn't really have a garden, but the older boys did hunt (probably squirrels more often than deer....) They would have wildcrafted greens and things, though. Poke and lambsquarter make good greens. I moved to the country during the Mother Earth era. It's amazing what kind of free food you can find if you know what to look for. And where. Just a bed of turnips somewhere in the back yard would stretch the budget.... They make greens AND a root vegetable. And they winter over in many parts of the country. That's why we eat turnip greens, black eyed peas, and hog jowl for "good luck" on New Year's Day. It's what you could count on still having available in all but the worst winters.
Shelpipp; Why stay in a place that is do hard? My mom was born in Texas, but thru kept right on driving until they reached Californian. California has had an EXCESS of $90,000,000,000 in income taxes these recent years to spend on people getting through this economy.
I did it for practically 4 years. One of my favorite menus using their stuff is Tuna Casserole or can soup and chicken salad for dinner, ham and cheese tortilla roll ups for lunch, cheese scrambled eggs and ham or pork sausage for breakfast. AND I always had a dollar to get cat food too. Its doable. Living like that for 4 years taught me how much money I wasted during the financially better years. Now that I'm good financially again I know how to truly live a good life and it has nothing to do with wasting a lot of money on unnecessary things.
I agree. I don't know why the video popped up on my watch this but once I started watching and hearing the chat away I thought she was just a really kind, decent and down to earth girl.
A lot of people don’t understand that this could truly serve as a survival strategy for millions of rural Americans in numerous situations. I’ve noticed that the local Dollar General Stores and Family Dollars in our area (southeastern U.S.) have transitioned into miniature general grocery stores.
@@penelopelopez8296 Yeah, a lot of that stuff does not have good ingredients. None of them are ethically or sustainably sourced. But when you don’t have the money you can’t care. Either you eat it or starve. There’s no room for 100% clean organic eating in a extremely low income budget.
You're opening statement made me cry...Im a bit emotional tonight, just one of those days. When you said about not taking donations, ''so the people who need them can have them''...before realising you are that person. It's always the same. Taxi drivers have told me it's the poorest people who always give a tip. It's poor people who can't ''spare some change'' but do anyway. It was really moving. now Im gonna watch this video God bless you
I'm on social security and when I take a taxi (its rare) you can be guaranteed I AM NOT ONLY going to tip, I'll make it worth their while. Drivers work hard, low pay. I appreciate a good ride. I had to be at the hospital for a very scary test at 5 AM the driver was great!! The total was $10 and I gave him a $5 tip. He was great and helped me to relax on the way over.
Love your comment! We picked cotton as kids to buy school supplies after my dad died, that’s why I’m frugal still and love it, but, I do not hesitate to give of the little we’ve had, always finding something to give!
I buy the homeless people in my area food instead of giving them change. Even the leftovers from lunch is better than nothing. My fatass doesn't need it. I'm not poor, so that cab driver isn't always right... but it definitely seems to be the case most of the time.
when I struggled, I asked my neighbours to share our food haul. Big bags of potatoes halved, exchanged for a half of broccoli, then quartered for other necessities with other neighbours. All of a sudden, we have a friend's base shared kitchen
That's a great idea. I always liked cooking with my neighbors. We would both be up having coffee and just kind of be like awe well I gotta go to the store and get this or that. . . But combining our ingredients We could throw something good together!
What a wonderful idea to share food with each other and cut it in half my friend and I do that with our 10 lb bags of potatoes I give her half of them cuz I can't possibly go through 10 lb and then she makes up the potato salad for that we barter quite a bit it's a lot of fun also and saves a lot of money God bless you sweet girl you did such a good job you are a encouragement to this older lady of 69 years old and at your age you're doing wonderfully love you God blessings eternally forever and ever and always 🙏🏻💜💐🏄🏼♂️❤️🐱🌺🇱🇷🙏🏻💜🙏🏻💯
This is a great tip if your local grocery store has the kind of sales that a store like Big Y runs where it’s buy one, get 2 free. It’s better to split, say, 3 bags of potatoes, among multiple households than let some of the potatoes start to rot in one.
I've been living (and eating, fairly well) under the poverty line for nearly ten years and I really appreciate people taking the time to help others who are struggling. So many people are finding themselves in scarcity now that have no idea how to make this work. The only thing I'd mention to people is not to drain fats from meat when you're stretching it, those fat calories help and they're flavor-dense. You and I might not want or need those calories but men or people who work at a physically demanding job need every calorie they can get when they're stretching their food dollars. This was excellent, your food choices and how you made it all work were dead on, well done, I'm thoroughly impressed, and thanks again. I can't wait to watch your other videos now.
My father went to school with a lard sandwich when he was growing up. That makes me sad even though my three siblings and I grew up poor and our poor mother lived in poverty always. I applaud this woman and her frugal ways.
@@conniespillman5157 Lard is actually better for you than you think. My granddad never tasted skim milk and never ate 'diet' food. He started working at age 5. He lived to be 85. That's great given what he had been through.
@@conniespillman5157 My father, as a boy, would occasionally get a treat of a piece of pork fat to take to school. He would take it out of his pocket now and then and chew on it like candy. He called it paddywack. He would also be given lard sandwiches. Sixty years later he would still happily eat anything put in front him.
MsBlackheart… I do agree with you on the fat. But for those who don’t really need the extra fat can always use the fat dripping for their pets. During hard times animals suffer a lot so the fat will help keep them going
Burger King sent me coupon in mail to buy a double cheeseburger, fries and a drink all for $3 plus tax. Some Mexican, Chinese and Pizza restaurants have lunch buffet for less than $10 unless their prices went up. Should be far cheaper to prepare your own meals.
Absolutely awesome. A rotisserie chicken for 5 or 6 dollars from a grocery store will add so much more to your week if you have the money. I shred the chicken to add to beans, etc. Save the bones and scraps and boil them for a stock, season, and you can add flour or corn starch and have a great soup.
A toasted chicken can be three meals for two. Chicken breasts one meal. Wings and thighs, and legs a second. Crock pot the carcass with water and simmer to make broth. Bone and skin, cartlidge removed leaves a rich broth for egg noodles and frozen peas. Yum
I watched this today. I lost my husband around 6 months ago and I have meat in my freezer from before I lost him. I have been eating a lot of taco salads for weeks. I had thawed out a good sized package of hamburger last night. Today I was just going to cook up some taco meat and do the same for days. After watching you, I remembered a cookbook a neighbor gave me years ago when my kids were little. There was a recipe in it that I had made a lot. I pulled it out and made the casserole instead. Actually had leftover taco meat that I put in a pint jar to freeze. I had all of the ingredients except one of the seasonings and my onion was bad so I used some dried onion. I expect that I have enough for the next 3 or 4 days. It could also be served with lettuce but I didn't have any. I may get some tomorrow. Even though I fixed something way different than you did, it made me think different than my norm would have been.
@@gloriannburick1837 so sorry about the loss of your husband - I sometimes cook different things for my husband than I eat so I always cook extra & freeze whole meals in Tupperware - he says they taste just as good after being frozen - you should try it if you haven’t - if you’re like me, there as days I feel like cooking & days I just don’t, so it is nice having those home cooked meals in the freezer - I lay the lid on loosely & heat them in the microwave on 1/2 power so they heat throughout & don’t get dried out 🥰
I’m sorry for the loss of your husband 🙏. Isn’t this channel the best for meal ideas?! I am older and live alone and these recipes will work great for me.
I’m amazed and impressed! I run a food bank and am a retired RN who used to do diabetic teaching. I cannot GIVE away dried beans, lentils etc. people have been spoiled with “convenience”, open a can foods. Lentils and beans are an excellent source of protein, especially paired with a whole grain or legume. Great job! Wish people your age would learn to cook.
@@ashleyburks4639 I'm a nurse too but 1st a survivor many times in my life I've been on extreme budgets and every thing she cooked was filling and tasty. Perhaps Joe has never been really hungry or strapped for cash with a family to feed.
@@maxinemcclurd1288 I think joe is just referring to the fact that cooking this cheaply isn’t healthy and that poor people have to compromise on healthy food which is horrible. Healthy food should be available for all but I digress.
you could give me bags of black, kidney beans and navy beans. They would feed me for weeks with the addition of rice, tomatoes, cheese, a little bit of smoked sausage, onions, carrots. I would be making chili cheese casserole, bean soup, Chili, beans and rice, black bean burgers from scratch. plus many other dishes with the ingredients above and some veggies from the farmers market.
This is such a wholesome comment section. That's one of the best parts of smaller RUclipsrs. Hopefully when your channel blows up, it stays that way :P Good luck and thank you for the video
Yup, it is a super common breakfast food in Japan, TKG! If you're uneasy about the egg being raw, or your rice isn't hot enough, mix the egg in and just microwave it a bit.
When using packaged tortillas, be sure to heat them in a pan, or iron griddle, (on a medium heat) to complete the cooking process and make them more pliable. Straight out of the package, they are only about 2/3 cooked, and won't roll or fold very well without ripping or tearing. I've seen so many people that either don't know, or don't care to do this, but i can assure you it will taste a lot better, and give you a generally better experience if you take the time to do this.
I love popping a couple on top of my toaster oven while it's in use (I cook in it more these days than my gas stove since electric is slightly cheaper than natural gas). They get warmed by the residual heat, and I wipe the toaster oven down daily so no extra dishes!
You don’t need to use a pan to reheat tortillas, Mexicans just heat them on an open flame by turning the burner on low. Wait 1-2 minutes for the grates to heat up or else the tortillas will stick. It’s ok to cheat and use a spatula. I recommend doing this on a gas stove or microwave for 15-25 seconds, use a cast iron pan if you have an electric stove!
FYI, if someone is really hungry a broken bean won’t matter. If you cook a small chunk of the sausage with the beans 🫘 it will absorb and infuse the beans with flavor and you can save the cubes for the rice.
The sad thing is... that when I went to school they had a required for 1 semester class, called home economics. I took it my freshman year to get it over with, but really learned a ton and enjoyed it! I do have to say that I have used EVERYTHING at least more than once that is learned from that class! I ended up taking it all freshman and sophomore year and am so glad I did!!!!! I honestly think that they should bring it back. The class taught you how to budget your bank account first. Checking and savings. Then we moved on to budgeting, paying your bills with what your given. Some were given more, some less, but you had to make it work to pass! You had to budget groceries in. You had a budget for one person and a family. We had a field trip to the grocery store and had to buy groceries with the budget we made for ourselves. We were also taught the basics of cooking, simple meals such as these to stretch your budget and a nice meal for guests. All of which was graded. We also learned how to wash, dry and fold your clothes. We were taught to iron a dress shirt, slacks etc. Also learned how to darn a sock, patch pants, sew and hem pants and sew a button back on a shirt. We also learned about budgeting in gas, insurance and maintenance for your car or cars. These aren't even all that we were taught! But let me tell you again.. I have used it all, and was so thankful! I grew up in a dysfunctional family and wanted to move out when I was 13! After learning and passing with flying colors,at 15 I lied on my application to job corps. You had to be 16 to enter the program. Iv was a troubled youth, had gotten kicked out of school but saw job corps as a way out! And it worked. By the time they figured out I lied in my app I was already 16 and thriving. I used everything that I learned from that class cause I was on my own in job corps! ( they don't tell you that when applying, lol) but I was lucky and helped a bunch of kids learn. I learned a trade, got my GED AND saved $1,800 of my own money and when I graduated my savings was another 1,800.. which was a good thing because when I got "home" I didn't have a room my stuff was in boxes and had a cot in the garage. Thx, but no surprise! I only had to stay there for 2 months. Worked 2 jobs until I got into my trade, so I didn't have to be "home" and saved. Turned 18 and bounced. But I've basically been on my own since 15.. Sorry.. but my point was that they should have these classes so today's kids have a clue when they move out! Kids today don't know much and this would help!
So… I clicked on this thinking “no way”, and then you did an amazing job! Thank you for making this video and showing how we can survive and eat pretty well for such a small amount of money. This will help lots of people!
Thank you so much for this video!! My family is struggling to make ends meet so I've been following your $10a week videos for myself to save for my kids! Thank you!!!
a slightly cheaper way to make really good spaghetti is to make your own sauce instead of buying jarred. since i was a fresh adult ive quit buying jarred sauce and i buy a can of tomatoes or some fresh ones, whatever i can get more of for less. i end up liking my homemade, cheaper sauce far better than jarred sauce and making it yourself lets you really customize its flavor
As someone who works with meat every day, I'd like to toss this out there that there's nothing wrong with ground beef that comes in a roll or any packaging that blocks it from view. Some people don't like to buy their ground beef that way because they prefer to "see" the meat before buying it, but it's often less expensive than meat that comes on a tray with clear cellophane. And blocking off the light from the meat actually helps keep it fresher longer. And with inflation the way it is, I've noticed that ground beef packed this way is becoming more popular.
I find the tubes of meat strange but that's only because I'm in the UK and we don't package meat that way, we only have it in trays. But thinking about it the tubes must be better for the environment as there is less plastic waste.
I’ve bought the tubes of hamburger for years. I use them for spaghetti, beef and bean and cheese burritos, meatballs and pasta or rice and brown gravy.
Hunger is real in America. I have tried to tell this to my neighbors etc. And they just dont get it. U did a great job stretching your dollars. I am the daughter of a depression era parents from the 30s so I was told over and over not to waste food ever!!!!!!! I enjoyed your weekly budget and meals.
I feel so guilty when I throw food out. Especially when there are hungry people all over the world. My daughter hates it when I want to see everything from the freezer before it goes to the trash.
when the fat people are "food insecure", you have to change the channel for the programming. People REALLY suffering need help..be aware waht "real suffering" is.
@@phyllisjones9626 when I see expiration dates closing in, I get a bunch of styrofoam meal holders from the Dollar Store. I cook up everything approaching expiration, including cake mixes. I make up meals for the homeless, elderly shut ins and feel great dispersing of this food. Nothing goes to waste in our household! My family wouldn’t tolerate food waste and taught me this. My children are always watching for expiration dates. If there is a blackout, I do the same thing. Get ice put it in a cooler to keep it from spoiling. When the electricity is restored I cook it all up and distribute it to the needy. There is never a reason to throw food out.
@@madamzzaj, I try to tell my daughter about wasting food. If something expire a couple months, she wants to throw it out. She laughs when I tell her to leave it. Your idea is a good one. I’m going to make her seal a meal everything. Before it expire, I’m going to make her cook it.
These kind of videos are extremely helpful for people trying to have enough food to live on. Many do hard physical labor such as construction work, picking fruit, brick laying, house keeping or other High calorie requirement jobs or they have to walk everywhere. Beans rice and lentils are definitely the way to stretch your dollars and get the most food.
Came expecting a silly youtube challenge video and left impressed by thoughtful content that truthfully addressed the challenge many face around access to food and potential food security. Well done...keep making great content.
It’s good to see this kind of tutorial from someone who understands what it’s really like to eat on a very restricted budget, and not someone who is doing it just for content. Also, thank you for the reminder about using resources for people struggling with food insecurity. So many people think like you did.
Kirby Gorjux Exactly.. There was a couple of very lean years in my early teens with a single mother dying of cancer.. I lived on peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, (and never complained) then, I would boil a little pasta and put a can of stewed tomatoes on the pasta.. Oh, and I was only 13&14 yrs old, so couldn't go get a job.. (this was way before top ramen! 🤷♀️ but I appreciate this video..
I wanted to say your support at the beginning to this who have needed our are in need of help was beautiful. I myself have struggled. I also have been able to help others at times. Your video is great.
I know how very easy it is to find yourself in that position and how hard it can be to reach out for help. I think especially once you've experienced it, you don't want others to struggle the same way. Thanks so much for watching and commenting 💙
We are struggling. With trying to eat healthy at our age it's a matter of life and death I can't tolerate all the salt and I'm not supposed to have sugar after a lifetime of pizza pepsi candy bars and potato chips it's mind boggling I look at bag of lintels and say what
If only those in need would realize how many neighbors and friends would find it an honor and privilege to share meals with them. I have never struggled financially, but am naturally frugal. I don't ask for help for anything, but love nothing more than helping others. There are so many people who would enjoy sharing their pantry, especially with those whose pantries are empty.
I stumbled upon your video today and the first thing that I noticed is how caring & kind you are in your presentation. You have some great ideas for different recipes. I think most of us are struggling to purchase food, and for me I'm struggling with new ideas for meals as prices continue to rise. Thank you so much for your thorough meals and your care and concern for others
I agree about reaching out but I will always stand by what I believe that people need to be paid wages that allow them to live without assistance, and able to buy healthy foods not just cheap quality foods.
There are plenty of people living on social security disability that are of “working age” that don’t get enough money from the government (they are either physically, mentally disabled or have mental health issues that prevent them from working). Same with older adults receiving social security or old age pension. They need these assistance programs to make their dollars stretch. I work as a social worker with these populations and it’s so hard to see them receive $497 a month and they’re expected to pay for basic amenities, food and medications. They often have to choose between these items and it’s not right. Assistance programs are very much needed because unfortunately saving doesn’t always cut it and no one seems to like socialism. There’s a lot of gaps and flaws in the US in terms of affordable health care, livable wages and housing.
I noticed how you said nothing about Congress giving itself a 20% raise on top of their $200,000 salary. They also have lucrative expense and travel accounts. How about government wasteful spending cuts so we pay less taxes?!
Tkjhe wfay I found the best way to making more money was to not work for someone for wages but rather to be my own employer. By being self employed I work only for my own interests, not someone else’s interests. Other than what I have to give to the government the rest belongs to me.
@@brittm1895 Thanks for your compassion. My son is severely mentally ill. Social security disability is good - but he would be screwed without his parents.
I appreciated the note in the beginning about reaching out to local food pantries. This was very thought out and informative. I appreciate your effort and will definitely be showing members in my community 🧡
Also local store who throw away breads and baked good...try not trashing them. Drive them to your local pantries. You can also give them to support groups at you local churches.
That's really impressive. I'd just watched another channel how to live with $30 a week and I thought that was impressive and it was. Kudos to you! Kids now a day need a real life lesson like this. This is why I love RUclips because I can share this video with my kids. People that know how to save early and be frugal while they are young usually retired earlier than everyone else. I really believe that.
I am ready for the week! All I could spend was $8.00 bc $2.00 went to the printer. It is Tuesday. All my meals are either made, prepped, or planned! You rock Lisa!
I shop at Dollar Tree most of the time for groceries, though I do go to Kroger or Walmart a few times here and there. One thing to bear in mind is that everything at Dollar Tree is literally $1...which means if you want a can of beans, corn, or peas - or a bottle of ketchup - you're straight up paying $1 for each. BUT...those items can be found for less than $1 at a regular grocery store. In fact, sometimes those cans are only .79 or .89 at a larger grocery store. So even though it sounds "cheap" to shop at Dollar Tree, it's not such a bad idea to grab some items at the local grocer instead. EDIT: I'm just posting this with the assumption that you could be just as close to a larger grocery store. If not, then Dollar Tree is great.
Yep, these are absolutely great points to keep in mind! The Dollar Tree definitely isn't the best bang for your buck for a lot of things - especially canned goods and foods that quickly get cheaper when bought in bulk like flour.
She did mention this in the video and also that she was considering the fact dollar tree was the only option for some people. However the frozen veggies are right on the money here.
@@lstj2979 I don't remember if it was said in the video. I probably missed it. I think it's simply a matter of the type of item you want. I know some frozen foods are cheaper at Dollar Tree, but some other frozen items are cheaper at Kroger, or instance some TV dinners are only .88 at Kroger, and some cans are only .79 or .89. It's all good. Overall it's much cheaper at Dollar Tree.
You are right, many people don’t have access to larger stores. I used to be one of those people (no car, in the city, no grocery stores around) and these kinds of videos would have really helped me back then! Learning how to cook on a budget is such a useful skill.
The beans, rice, and veggies looked quite tasty while you were preparing it! Here's a tip on tortilla wrapping...steam the tortilla's and that makes them more pliable and stretch. How to steam easy: pick up one of those splatter reducing screens from the kitchen section of the Dollar Tree, place it over a skillet with water. Place the tortillas on top of the screen. Use tongs, they get hot! BTW, your rolling skills are top notch. Very helpful information. You have certainly been a joy to watch!
Thanks so much 💙 I actually was recently gifted a tortilla warmer, and that has been a game changer. That's a really great idea about the splatter screen though, I'll definitely keep that in mind in case I ever need it!
What a great demo! I made my food budget work like that for years and learned my chops from my best guru: Mom. She was a product of both a big family of mostly ravenous boys and then losing their family home in a Cat. 5 tornado in 1936 in MS right in the peak of the Depression. I think her Mom could make a meal out of flour, bacon and air! If you had a small window herb garden and kept a bacon grease container those batches of lentils and beans and the rice dishes would all taste even better, but you know that : ) This was an exercise to prove a point. I hope you inspired thousands of desperate and terrified people all over during this difficult time. This country has to figure out a better way to get back to a reliable food distribution pattern! You may have saved some lives, you know.
The country needs to learn how to cook again. I don't mean from TV chefs, I mean learn to cook ordinary things from ordinary ingredients. The supermarkets are not helpful. They are full of industrial packaged and expensive scrap,.
You are not only fun to watch, but I’m constantly amazed at how you use everything up so wisely !! Your family is definitely reaping the benefits of your clever, and healthy cooking !! Great Job Lisa, keep it up 🥰
I love what you did with the rice and raw egg....this is normal in Japanese cuisine and how you make the beans is technically correct....the way you cook makes me feel like not all people can't cook..I have hope in humanity again
Yes, I love Japanese dishes! I got paranoid on camera at the last second about how to pronounce tamago kake gohan and got scared I'd completely butcher it 🤣 Thanks for watching!
I worked for Holliday Inn founder Kemmons Wilson in the 80s. He grew up during the depression and told the story of his family having a bag of beans for a week. He was later worth 300 million dollars. He always remembered where he came from.
Yes its great that people never forget where they've come from.and I just watches a small bio about him and how he loved the trademark neon signs that holiday inn used to have but sadley after he died they no longer use .
@@awilson816aw Well said. There was no remark about "Balance". There was no Balance, or Fairness during the Great Depression. Google it up or read "The Grapes of Wrath". The quote was, "He never forgot where he came from." I'm sure the reference was about being, cold & hungry, whearing rags, no shoes. Watching his family, & those around him suffering from the same, & the sickness, dieing, the fear. The friends he made, the scarce Job's available. The physical cost to the body's of family & friends for each $1.00 earned, & exactly what that dollar could buy. He never forgot, means he did something about it. For others. Never turned away from people he knew, grew up with, worked beside etc... what's wrong with that?
@@johnsandraco1086 I'm betting you were asking this same question in 2020 standing in line @ the Grocery store waiting to get inside the door. Then looking around at the empty shelves. "Where's the Balance"???
@Joe Blow When you don't have any options, Frozen is better than nothing. Canned fruit isn't best, but it's not "candy" either. There's canned fruits that have no added sugars and are in fruit juice.
@@crystald3655 frozen is always the best choice after fresh. Most of the nutrients in canned have been cooked out. Most of the time food is frozen in just hours after it’s been picked.
Frozen veg is good but canned has added sodium. Personally, I'll usually grab frozen veg over fresh. Don't have to worry about it going bad at the end of the week.
I'm just happy to see some wahmen still cook. The other day we had a bbq at work & none of the white girls cooked anything. Store bought potato salad, I am talking a zero sandwich environment.
I've made many a gourmet meal from Dollar tree over the years. The frozen section was a Godsend when my children were younger and my seemingly glamorous bank job was barely covering my living expenses... I still make my Dollar tree run every two weeks 😁
It’s dinner time. I’m hungry and was thinking about what to go eat for less than $10 and you ate all week on $10. I need to rethink my eating game. Thank you!
@@christopherhorton821 that point is moot as they were already in the house and considered pantry staples. No one buys a new thing of salt, oil, etc every grocery trip.
@@bunniie143 You would be WRONG. the only thing that I have in my house that I would not have to buy extra is the Salt. I know a lot of people that don't have a single spice in their houses. That would be a extra expense for a lot of people.
@@christopherhorton821 idk where you live, but you can get all those from the dollar store. You can also get huge things of salt for like $0.80, even smaller sizes of seasonings, spices and oils last longer than a week, if you're going through entre things of oil oil or a random seasoning in a week, every week, you're using too much and need to ration better. And before you tell me I'm rich and ignorant, I'm poor, I grew up poor and have had to learn a lot of stretching basics and staples so you don't have to buy them every week. ✌️
Lisa Dawn you're brilliant and your content in this video is something every community needs more of - respect, honesty and valuable information. Well done and on behalf of all who can be inspired here, thank you.
I’ve recently cut down my working hours to part time and have been learning to feed myself on a tight budget, the Dollar Tree has been good for a lot of basic food items that I use along with fresh produce from Savemart. The meals you made from the Dollar Tree items were nutritious and looked tasty, I admire you for being smart and frugal for a young lady!
I think you did a excellent job of picking healthy food from dollar tree for $10. You gave a lot of people on tight budgets choices to eat by. Thank you
I'm doing da same ting tings get real real quick. Struggle is real. And I'm working trying to do extra work. And I don't even buy food I go to Elementary schools and ask dem nicely for food. Life is real I have to get a new roof for my mama house.
To be honest, I grew up extremely poor, so I learned how to stretch money, I liked your combinations you made and it gave me some ideas for new recipes on a budget. You are very relatable and look forward to more votes, God Bless!!
At our local grocery store they often have “day old” bags of really nice fruits and veggies for a dollar. I can’t tell how much those help too, and go a long way during the week! You just have to sort of time the best day to nab these terrific deals. Terrific video and keep up the good work 🙂
@@archery411 Well I shop at a Kroger store-so it may be that not all grocery stores do this nice thing. I’ve had pretty good luck on Tuesdays and Wednesdays!
@@gotwobag7876 I shop at Kroger so I’m going to keep my eye out, as I’ve never seen this before. What a nice surprise it would be though, to come across this! Thanks for sharing!
I was curious to see what kinds of groceries Dollar Tree had so I searched RUclips, and I came across your video. The opening of this video melted my heart, and the entire content of this video will come in so handy for those looking to make the most of what they have. I truly appreciate you and your video. Amazing human and video!
Thank you for this video. Even if we don't need to make $10 stretch for a week, we can incorporate some of the ideas to stretch out our food budget. Well done!
These remind me a lot of how I ate when I was just starting out. Simple meals, repeated ingredients , but all tasty. As the weeks went on and on my pantry wad greatly expanded because of food carryover because at that time I was just feeding myself so I didn't go through an entire bag of beans for example.
I just saw your video ! Actually, every aspect of my life is cheap- except food. I live in a shack for $300 per month, drive a $500 car...i take home over $2k per month and I'm taking care of only myself. Even though i like a steak, fried seafood & the like- i really admire how thrifty you are with food. Best wishes, Old Greg.
This is one of the most wholesome videos I’ve ever seen. I work at a grocery store and it just makes me realize how much stock people put into prepared foods over just cooking for themselves. Amazing video and it really just made my day. I love your attitude and this really makes me happy to know people like you are out there just to help others.
This is so helpful for a lot of people on a restrictive budget, but honestly, everyone could stand to be economical when it comes to meals. Thank you so much for this!
I’ve been very fortunate in my life to never have to worry about if I will have enough food. But I can imagine it must be so difficult. I was amazed you were able to make such nutritious meals for a WEEK on $10. I may not have loved every meal and certainly some more expensive additions with would improved them. But I would have eaten any one of those meals without hesitation and would be nourished. Nice job!
Yes, we too have been very fortunate, and I just watched the video out of curiosity and disbelief. She has taught me a lesson, and my wife and I need to rethink our money management. I’m glad a came across this video!
I made a $15 a week menu plan and right before the economy went crazy I knew I could eat on $15 for the whole week..just from a regular grocery store. So this is pretty darn interesting.
came to comment this. no greater joy than seeing someone excited to eat their own cooking, even when it seems simple. cooking, eating, sharing food are like the most important things in the world
WOW!!! The Cooking Channel needs to hire you with your own TV Show making 7 Figures per 25 years, a new home with a bad ass kitchen and your own truck to buy all the groceries you need! My crown off to you! You are an Angel 👼🏻 in disguise. Blessings your way!
Absolutely impressive. The only thing I felt was missing was some cheese. Otherwise, really amazing how you made it last and incorporated as many veggies as possible within the restriction on the budget. I especially love the no-waste approach. Definitely rethinking our food management. Thank you for this!
Yes, after watching her do this for a week, it made us want to re think as well how we manage our money and grocery shopping. We are very wasteful and that’s a shame.
Another You Tuber has commented that she has to 'cheat' a bit on her Dollar Tree meals with cheese, and, buy the cheese elsewhere. The Dollar Tree cheese just isn't as good, doesn't melt as well, etc.
I LOVE that you tell people to get help! As someone that lived my first 10 years using that help, it is so needed. Now, I am like you, telling people to get the help they deserve.
Hi! In the future, the rice water (the cloudy water you get that you poured down the drain) is great for plants! And for washing your face. It has some nutrients for the plants and apparently leaves a smoother, more moisturizer-like effect on your face!
Honestly this is more realistic video, both on pricing and portions compared to others. My wife immediately said it reminded her of university... Great video
Ten extra points for cat cameo. Growing up we had pinto beans a lot. It was flavorful with a ham hock and filling. A piece of bread under it helped fill us up too.
My mom made dried beans and cornbread a lot. She grew veggies and we had fresh green onions with it most of the year. She dried red peppers and liked the flakes in hers. She'd save a bone from ham in the fridge/ freezer when ever we had it to flavor them.
At my house we called this beans and bones. I learned how to fry cornbread to go with. A splash of vinegar and some chopped white onion on the beans, cornbread firmly in hand and a small piece of hock in each bowl. Mmm
i can't figure out why anyone would downvote your video, Lisa. you have a great attitude and personality to do this! lentils and beans are great sources of protein and can fill one up well. good for you for sharing those who are in dire straits that it IS possible to eat this way for very little money. well done you! :)
You're so resourceful and clever. I loved this, even though I'm not in a position to require this level of frugality. Thank you. I found this really interesting.
Dollar tree has a salt free seasoning like Mrs. Dash that I like really well. For anyone needing to eat on a tight budget, it really helps to add a lot of flavor without needing a whole spice cabinet.
My dad's favorite quick bachelor dinner when mom was out of town was a can of hormel chili with beans over a pile of white rice. Done. Get fancy with some shredded cheddar and onions on top
I just watched your video and I noticed that your low budget menu is like what most people eat in Mexico...rice, beans and tortillas, which is very good for your health and budget! No hot dogs and fries! Very good ideas! Watching you from Montreal, Quebec...
Girl, I just had to comment. You outdid yourself with this video. Very well planned out meals, good nutrition, low cost, meal planning, freezing, etc., You truly need your own show. You even put in a few mishaps or real life issues of cooking, spilling, old countertop, etc, so real, haha! You are simply amazing. I'm definitely a fan. Video well done. Blessings and please do more!!! Absolutely love all your creations!
Its ONLY Dollar Tree 4 me!!! They have excellent things, freezer & fridge items are awesome! I always got my frozen fruit to make smoothies. Eggs, cheese, breads, seasonings, tea, coffee, chips, cleaning supplies ( brand name), party & beauty supplies etc..... I always go there when I move into a new place for cleaning supplies, cooking utensils, paper goods & dishes, silverware & REAL GLASS drinking glassess.
You cook like I did when I was broke as a joke. I fed me and my daughter off of rice, beans, lentils, eggs, and veggies with the occasional fish, chicken, or turkey because we don't eat meat. I made $136.00 a month from an EBT card and whatever I could get from the food bank once a month and made it stretch as far as I could. We ate pretty much 1 or 2 meals a day. We had rice with just about everything because it makes a great filler as do beans. I kept potatoes in the house as well. I'd pick up 2 5 lbs bags each month because at our store it was buy 1 get 1 free. I'd make my own bread with the flour I bought and would pick up canned veggies for 40c a can to cook with. For the occasional dessert, I'd buy the $1 cake or brownie mixes. We had to live this way for more than 2 years after my husband died from cancer. It was hard and not having the money to buy the things we wanted was a little disappointing but we were fine with what we did have. Thank you so much for doing this video because there are many people out there struggling with very little money to eat on. Thankfully I grew up a poor southerner and my Mother taught us early how to make a dollar stretch. But so many these days haven't had to feel that pinch until recently and videos like these are a tremendous help. God Bless you for thinking of others.
Great job.
My sincere hope you and your daughter are facing better days now. I’m so sorry about your husband!!
God bless you. You're obviously very bright. Keep punching. Dream big. Count on God.
Last I knew chicken,fish and turkey are meats.
God bless you and your family
I teach basic nutrition for people who received food assistance. I AM SO PROUD of how you added real whole foods to your week. Beans, lentils, rice, frozen vegetables, and more. You could have easily chosen highly processed food, but you didn't. Really great job!
Thanks for some quick easy recipes also
I totally agree. It was like she made "take out" quality food too. It all looked delicious.
Yep
I totally agree!!
Anyone can choose highly processed foods, so what is your point?
God bless this woman for making her recipes very cheap to afford for the poor and struggling. She looks so happy eating her own meals when she is done. It's not easy being poor and trying to find foods to fit your budget. But she has managed!!!
Bad ass job on this video. I grew up poor and this brought me back to a time when warm food in my stomach changed my day from shit to sunshine. I hope you win the lottery
In my opinion, that was beautifully said! Lol. ♥️
@@hop529ddlft ha same
Winning THE LOTTERY ruins a rather substantial amount of "winner's" lives. I wouldnt wish it on anyone
those who play the lotto are dumb - they are giving their money to past winners
I receive food stamps as a low income senior so I have to make ever dollar count. I also do not drive so I walk to our local Dollar Tree or Dollar General for all my grocery needs. I so appreciate these grocery hauls & recipe ideas! Thank you!
Check out The Wolfe Pit on RUclips. Lots of great cheap meal recipes on his channel.
Dollar Tree literally saved my life when I was going through a rough patch. I don't need them like I did once, but you can still find great value there.
Why don’t you get a job ?
@@posseruthless7096 He or she is an elderly person, and in some states food and rent are very expensive
@@posseruthless7096 why don't u find a heart. Also learn to read. They said they were an elderly person.
I was very impressed by this video and I compliment Ms. Dawn for several reasons: 1. She is very down-to-earth and realistic in showing her actual kitchen tools ( cast iron skillet that is older and a bit scuffed, kitchen counter that is clean but a little discolored by time); this makes her relate to real folks. 2. She owns up and shares small errors like forgetting to add the veggies to one dish and pausing the cooking to add them. This is how we all really cook and why I feel Ms. Dawn does an excellent job.
I agree with you. It made me listen to her even more intently as I feel she really cares about people and teaching them about how they can do it too.
If you've got just a few more dollars and you go to a discount grocer like Sav-a-Lot or Aldi's, you can add a bag of onions, a bag of apples, a bag of potatoes, two cans of tuna, and a couple of cans of crushed tomatoes or tomato paste for about $12 and the next week you won't need to spend that whole $12 because you'll still have at least half the potatoes and more than half of the onions. Those weeks you can also buy some pasta and that's when you'll be able to use the onions. and tomatoes with your spices to make pasta sauce. Or if you have one more bag of pinto beans you can use half of that plus your tomatoes and onions to make chili. Maybe you alternate between sweet potatoes and white potatoes when you got the sweet potatoes you can eat them microwave with butter and cinnamon or you can even make sweet potato pie with them. Raisins aren't cheap but they sure go a long ways to add flavor to things and they're a nice addition to a lunch for the kids. In fact a peanut butter and raisins sandwich is pretty darn good. Bananas are cheap and they go great of course plane or in serial including in oatmeal and the peanut butter and banana sandwich is yummy and nutritious. A bunch of celery at Aldi's is about a dollar 49 and peanut butter on a stalk of celery is amazingly yummy. Somehow the celery taste sweet when you eat it with the peanut butter and it's nothing like you would imagine. Kids might be reluctant to try it the once they do they'll ask for it. If you've got cabbage potatoes onions tomatoes you have vegetable soup and that's a good time to use your little bit of neat because it goes a long way in a suit just like if you're going to use tease you don't want to use it on a sandwich at that will use it right up but a little cheese with the tuna and pasta and you've got a yummy dinner! If you also buy a large container of old fashioned oatmeal that's $2 and you can feed two kids for a month of breakfast's on that oatmeal. If you have enough money to buy a jar of peanut butter and another carton of eggs you can make everything from tuna salad to omelettes. You can slice the apples up and cook them with cinnamon, you can put them whole in. lunch buckets or sliced with peanut butter. You can dice them into oatmeal with cinnamon. You can dice them into pancakes are put cinnamon applesauce on top of the pancakes. You can peel them and boil them and mash them into applesauce which also makes a great topping for pancakes or ingredient for apple cake. It doesn't add nutrition but if your kids don't like playing eggs buying a bottle of bacon bits type Salad Topping can add that bacon flavor to them enough that they will enjoy eating them on a sandwich.
@@myfirstnamemylastname2994 Good ideas!
@@myfirstnamemylastname2994 if people have the stores and their area
@@myfirstnamemylastname2994 wow! Those were alot of great tips, thanks!
I'm fortunate I don't *need* to cook "struggle meals" anymore, but I choose not to forget where I came from, which was from a poor family. A slice of white bread and a frozen salisbury steak were dinner for many a night. These meals you've made are so many steps above those my mom tried to craft for us kids from what she had on hand. Thank you for making tasty, generally healthy meals available to the masses. Cheers!
Thank you for admonishing folks who need help to ask for it. My wife and I found ourselves in need of help about 10 years ago. We have four children, and work was scarce. Truly scarce. We used the food banks, soup kitchens, food stamps and a few other programs. Eventually, we both landed decent jobs, and we weened ourselves off of assistance. Was it humbling to eat at the soup kitchen? Yes, but we were very thankful it was there.
We probably got off assistance earlier than we 'should' have, but I desperately wanted to be on my own two feet.
Not everybody on assistance is abusing the system, nor are they, necessarily, lazy. Sometimes things go sideways, and we need a hand.
This is so true thank you
you was not alone
I'm glad you are doing alright.
Glad things eased up for you. So frustrated with the perception that most people are abusing the system. Does that happen? Sure! But the vast majority of people I came in contact with when I was working in that system were truly doing their best. Unfortunately the few abusers get most of the press.
Almost no one is abusing it. There's propaganda against support systems because some people want to reroute that money to tax cuts and corporate subsidies
I lived on Dollar Tree for an entire Year. My grocery budget only allowed 20-25 dollars every two weeks (sometimes way less) for one person and I made it stretch. Hunger is real. Great job!!!!!
It's definitely not easy to live on such a low budget, especially for so long. I hope you're in a better position now and eating well! Thanks for watching
@@ThatLisaDawn
It is easy. It’s only not easy if u make it that way. I spend wayyy less than that but not because I have too. Just shows if I had to then it would be rlly easy. Stop pretending that it’s not.
@@jayjayhibbs That's great that you've got it all figured out! You should share your Dollar Tree meal plan then!
@@jayjayhibbs you must be buying your groceries by the month.
@@ThatLisaDawn
shop at aldi!!
Just one year later (Jan 15, 2023) and these same groceries now cost $13.75 I think you did really great, both nutritionally and deliciously.
I once lived on a $50 week plus I got free food at work and I felt so sorry for myself. Your video was a hard slap in the face.
Thats about the same I have for an entire month and some of that I dont spend on food, some is for soap, clothes, shoes, medicine, hobbies, bus money or saving for unforseen expenses. And I dont get free food, so yeah its good to remind ourselves when we feel sorry for ourselves that there are almost always others who has it even worse then you. I have more food then what I need on 40 dollar/ month and I never felt like I dont eat what I want, i eat shrimp, caviar, crabfish, ”expensive” meat, fresh vegetables and more. And I buy the more expensive cup noodles( usually 2 for 4-5 dollars). I never really felt like I lacked something exept for maybe going out to eat and/or drinking alcohol( but I didint drink before either).
Im a Chef so my meals tend to taste great anyway and I make resturant worthy foods all the time so I dont really miss the take out all that much, but sometimes I miss the cheap pizza flavour if you know what I talk about.
Thank you for caring about those of us who need the help. It feels good to know people still care.
As a professional chef who grew up poor I have always been annoyed with people that say I am poor I cannot feed myself. You have just proven that it can be done for less than one would spend on one fast food meal. Well done!
Check out Running On Plants here on RUclips if you think this is something impressive.
What annoys me when I hear people say they're a broke college student
Apparently you weren't truly poor. There were times we literally ate scraps that were leftover from school, because there was $0 money for weeks at a time. So, yeah, you can be so poor you can't feed yourself.
@@clhart8405 and you know this about me how? I was just trying to be positive but if you wanna troll go ahead. I don't forget where I came. from.
Just a note that this person's great and helpful video content still isn't an excuse to be a judgmental person about the lives of others. The people you're "annoyed with" may have other issues at play in their lives you aren't privy to. A meal plan like this looks different for someone who lives in their car or in a motel, someone who has kids to feed, someone who has food allergies, etc, etc. You're probably going to clap back to this like I'm insulting you, but I'm not - just asking you to open your mind.
No need to explain the older counter tops or broken faucet. Anyone bothered by an older home should move on to the fake content.
I appreciate that! This was the second video I uploaded but the first I filmed, so I was feeling pretty nervous and self conscious! I'm feeling a lot more comfortable about it now 🙂
@@ThatLisaDawn You call those old counter tops, my laminate countertops are from 1947 and still do their job and that's all that matters. 😁
Fake content ?
Seriously!! You are so right! I immediately loved her for being real and like most ppl.😍😍
I paused the vid just to find a comment like yours.🤗
I live in California in a townhouse it's not modern but I'm humble and proud. We will get a house soon. Its expensive for a shack out here, seriously. So I know my new house will have plenty of old character for over half a million $$🙄🤭😁😁
@@judyapplepie4344 I think she's referring to the "fancy" people with perfect granite countertops and brand new state-of-the-art appliances who aren't very relatable to those of us with limited income and resources.
Your video made me feel appreciative of the blessings I have. I don’t have to eat on $10 a week, but if I did, I would follow your advise. You are a star.
*advice
@@Ultamami really?
There's never any shame in reaching out for help. Soooooo true.
This girl is damn smart. Good for her for being so thrifty and efficient. She's a good find- someone who isn't a snob and just makes sense about this. And can cook.
Amen, I was trying to find the words, but you did! 💯
She is, i just wish she wouldn't say " go ahead" in every other sentence. Is that a regional thing?
She is the biggest sweetheart, her channel should be so much bigger.
I've recently been humbled financially and it's so beautiful to read such support and honesty in the comments. This is very real what many of us are going through. Blessings to all on this journey 💕
💕
i think we have all been financially humbled in recent years! we're wiser and more patient!
Financially Humbled ...poignant statement
I’m sure you know that your worth is not tied to your finances and environment. May God bless and keep you as you adjust to less right now. Remember things don’t have to remain the same forever. Nothing does. And there is also always hope that the situation will change for the better. You can take such steps as you can to improve your finances and there is always help in even smallish communities if you don’t let pride hold you back. Best of wishes to you.
@@heidimeigs5192 thank you for your kind words 🙏🏾
I recently spent $60 on what should have been a $45 trip to the market, and I live in east Texas, where the cost of living is super low. These videos are about to be relevant to everyone. I really believe that the folks who can survive on $10 a week from DT are going to be the ones who survive the longest when times get tough. Great videos; you’ve earned a new subscriber! ❤️
I don't see people starving in another depression, but thriving is another story. With everything going up (although housing may be slowly falling for buyers at least) stretching the paycheck is the difference between comfort and crazy stress.
I subscribed about 3 mins in... Looking forward to checking out her other videos
Well, it's $12.50, now, but, yes. My parents grew up during the Great Depression, and got by on cornbread, potatoes, dried beans, and whatever they could grow in their garden (including eggs and milk.) To be honest, my father's family didn't really have a garden, but the older boys did hunt (probably squirrels more often than deer....) They would have wildcrafted greens and things, though. Poke and lambsquarter make good greens.
I moved to the country during the Mother Earth era. It's amazing what kind of free food you can find if you know what to look for. And where.
Just a bed of turnips somewhere in the back yard would stretch the budget.... They make greens AND a root vegetable. And they winter over in many parts of the country. That's why we eat turnip greens, black eyed peas, and hog jowl for "good luck" on New Year's Day. It's what you could count on still having available in all but the worst winters.
Same I also live in East Texas and I fill like food has sky rocketed
Shelpipp; Why stay in a place that is do hard? My mom was born in Texas, but thru kept right on driving until they reached Californian. California has had an EXCESS of $90,000,000,000 in income taxes these recent years to spend on people getting through this economy.
I did it for practically 4 years. One of my favorite menus using their stuff is Tuna Casserole or can soup and chicken salad for dinner, ham and cheese tortilla roll ups for lunch, cheese scrambled eggs and ham or pork sausage for breakfast. AND I always had a dollar to get cat food too. Its doable. Living like that for 4 years taught me how much money I wasted during the financially better years. Now that I'm good financially again I know how to truly live a good life and it has nothing to do with wasting a lot of money on unnecessary things.
Love how honest and down to earth she seems
I agree. I don't know why the video popped up on my watch this but once I started watching and hearing the chat away I thought she was just a really kind, decent and down to earth girl.
A lot of people don’t understand that this could truly serve as a survival strategy for millions of rural Americans in numerous situations.
I’ve noticed that the local Dollar General Stores and Family Dollars in our area (southeastern U.S.) have transitioned into miniature general grocery stores.
When wallmart didnt have any bleach or toilet paper, the dollar store had it all >>>>>....
Check the packaging and see where a lot of that dollar store food comes from. You won’t like it. I didn’t when I checked the packaging.
@@penelopelopez8296 Yeah, a lot of that stuff does not have good ingredients. None of them are ethically or sustainably sourced. But when you don’t have the money you can’t care. Either you eat it or starve. There’s no room for 100% clean organic eating in a extremely low income budget.
@@penelopelopez8296 dollar tree or dollar store?
@@penelopelopez8296 it’s still better than literally starving.
You're opening statement made me cry...Im a bit emotional tonight, just one of those days. When you said about not taking donations, ''so the people who need them can have them''...before realising you are that person. It's always the same. Taxi drivers have told me it's the poorest people who always give a tip. It's poor people who can't ''spare some change'' but do anyway. It was really moving. now Im gonna watch this video God bless you
I'm on social security and when I take a taxi (its rare) you can be guaranteed I AM NOT ONLY going to tip, I'll make it worth their while. Drivers work hard, low pay. I appreciate a good ride. I had to be at the hospital for a very scary test at 5 AM the driver was great!! The total was $10 and I gave him a $5 tip. He was great and helped me to relax on the way over.
I have always said the poorest cooks are the ones who are the best cooks.
Thank you
Great response.
Love your comment! We picked cotton as kids to buy school supplies after my dad died, that’s why I’m frugal still and love it, but, I do not hesitate to give of the little we’ve had, always finding something to give!
I buy the homeless people in my area food instead of giving them change. Even the leftovers from lunch is better than nothing. My fatass doesn't need it. I'm not poor, so that cab driver isn't always right... but it definitely seems to be the case most of the time.
You don't owe anyone any explanation and I am sure none of us are judging. Thank you for these great money saving meals and keep the videos coming.
when I struggled, I asked my neighbours to share our food haul. Big bags of potatoes halved, exchanged for a half of broccoli, then quartered for other necessities with other neighbours. All of a sudden, we have a friend's base shared kitchen
That's a great idea. I always liked cooking with my neighbors. We would both be up having coffee and just kind of be like awe well I gotta go to the store and get this or that. . . But combining our ingredients We could throw something good together!
@@thomashaley1036 👍😉😊
What a wonderful idea to share food with each other and cut it in half my friend and I do that with our 10 lb bags of potatoes I give her half of them cuz I can't possibly go through 10 lb and then she makes up the potato salad for that we barter quite a bit it's a lot of fun also and saves a lot of money God bless you sweet girl you did such a good job you are a encouragement to this older lady of 69 years old and at your age you're doing wonderfully love you God blessings eternally forever and ever and always 🙏🏻💜💐🏄🏼♂️❤️🐱🌺🇱🇷🙏🏻💜🙏🏻💯
This is a great tip if your local grocery store has the kind of sales that a store like Big Y runs where it’s buy one, get 2 free. It’s better to split, say, 3 bags of potatoes, among multiple households than let some of the potatoes start to rot in one.
Super cool I would love to have neighbors like this
I've been living (and eating, fairly well) under the poverty line for nearly ten years and I really appreciate people taking the time to help others who are struggling. So many people are finding themselves in scarcity now that have no idea how to make this work. The only thing I'd mention to people is not to drain fats from meat when you're stretching it, those fat calories help and they're flavor-dense. You and I might not want or need those calories but men or people who work at a physically demanding job need every calorie they can get when they're stretching their food dollars. This was excellent, your food choices and how you made it all work were dead on, well done, I'm thoroughly impressed, and thanks again. I can't wait to watch your other videos now.
My father went to school with a lard sandwich when he was growing up. That makes me sad even though my three siblings and I grew up poor and our poor mother lived in poverty always. I applaud this woman and her frugal ways.
@@conniespillman5157
Lard is actually better for you than you think.
My granddad never tasted skim milk and never ate 'diet' food.
He started working at age 5.
He lived to be 85.
That's great given what he had been through.
@@conniespillman5157 My father, as a boy, would occasionally get a treat of a piece of pork fat to take to school. He would take it out of his pocket now and then and chew on it like candy. He called it paddywack. He would also be given lard sandwiches.
Sixty years later he would still happily eat anything put in front him.
MsBlackheart… I do agree with you on the fat. But for those who don’t really need the extra fat can always use the fat dripping for their pets. During hard times animals suffer a lot so the fat will help keep them going
And this is why my desire to have financial freedom is real.
Wow, I usually spend about $10 for every meal I eat and here you are eating for a week! Everything looked so delicious too! Great job!
Burger King sent me coupon in mail to buy a double cheeseburger, fries and a drink all for $3 plus tax. Some Mexican, Chinese and Pizza restaurants have lunch buffet for less than $10 unless their prices went up. Should be far cheaper to prepare your own meals.
I think you did a really good job on that
Really good job 👏👍👌
yes, but Dollar Tree is now $1.25 Tree, so she should change the title to: How to eat for $12.50 a week :)
Burger King raised prices now $4.00 plus tax near here with coupon for double cheeseburger, fries and a drink.
Absolutely awesome. A rotisserie chicken for 5 or 6 dollars from a grocery store will add so much more to your week if you have the money. I shred the chicken to add to beans, etc. Save the bones and scraps and boil them for a stock, season, and you can add flour or corn starch and have a great soup.
I can usually stretch 2 rotisserie chickens for 3 meals for my family of 7. 4 if you count a batch of chicken broth.
A toasted chicken can be three meals for two. Chicken breasts one meal.
Wings and thighs, and legs a second. Crock pot the carcass with water and simmer to make broth. Bone and skin, cartlidge removed leaves a rich broth for egg noodles and frozen peas. Yum
I watched this today. I lost my husband around 6 months ago and I have meat in my freezer from before I lost him. I have been eating a lot of taco salads for weeks. I had thawed out a good sized package of hamburger last night. Today I was just going to cook up some taco meat and do the same for days. After watching you, I remembered a cookbook a neighbor gave me years ago when my kids were little. There was a recipe in it that I had made a lot. I pulled it out and made the casserole instead. Actually had leftover taco meat that I put in a pint jar to freeze. I had all of the ingredients except one of the seasonings and my onion was bad so I used some dried onion. I expect that I have enough for the next 3 or 4 days. It could also be served with lettuce but I didn't have any. I may get some tomorrow. Even though I fixed something way different than you did, it made me think different than my norm would have been.
Whenever I get ground chuck on sale, I make a big meat loaf & I also make shepherds pie - everyone loves it
Sorry about the loss of your husband. I know after my husband passed, it was hard to cook for just yourself
@@gloriannburick1837 so sorry about the loss of your husband - I sometimes cook different things for my husband than I eat so I always cook extra & freeze whole meals in Tupperware - he says they taste just as good after being frozen - you should try it if you haven’t - if you’re like me, there as days I feel like cooking & days I just don’t, so it is nice having those home cooked meals in the freezer - I lay the lid on loosely & heat them in the microwave on 1/2 power so they heat throughout & don’t get dried out 🥰
I am sending good thoughts to you, Joann.😊
I’m sorry for the loss of your husband 🙏. Isn’t this channel the best for meal ideas?! I am older and live alone and these recipes will work great for me.
I’m amazed and impressed! I run a food bank and am a retired RN who used to do diabetic teaching. I cannot GIVE away dried beans, lentils etc. people have been spoiled with “convenience”, open a can foods. Lentils and beans are an excellent source of protein, especially paired with a whole grain or legume. Great job! Wish people your age would learn to cook.
That is sad. Legumes are the best
@Joe Blow not all are like that dear.
@@ashleyburks4639 I'm a nurse too but 1st a survivor many times in my life I've been on extreme budgets and every thing she cooked was filling and tasty. Perhaps Joe has never been really hungry or strapped for cash with a family to feed.
@@maxinemcclurd1288 I think joe is just referring to the fact that cooking this cheaply isn’t healthy and that poor people have to compromise on healthy food which is horrible. Healthy food should be available for all but I digress.
you could give me bags of black, kidney beans and navy beans. They would feed me for weeks with the addition of rice, tomatoes, cheese, a little bit of smoked sausage, onions, carrots. I would be making chili cheese casserole, bean soup, Chili, beans and rice, black bean burgers from scratch. plus many other dishes with the ingredients above and some veggies from the farmers market.
This is such a wholesome comment section. That's one of the best parts of smaller RUclipsrs. Hopefully when your channel blows up, it stays that way :P Good luck and thank you for the video
The commenters have been the best part of starting a RUclips channel! Thank you for the kind words and thanks for watching! 💙💙💙
22:43 Hot rice with a raw egg mixed in is a YES. Add a drop of soy sauce or just salt & pepper. Yum. Simple, wholesome foods are so good!
Yup, it is a super common breakfast food in Japan, TKG!
If you're uneasy about the egg being raw, or your rice isn't hot enough, mix the egg in and just microwave it a bit.
When using packaged tortillas, be sure to heat them in a pan, or iron griddle, (on a medium heat) to complete the cooking process and make them more pliable. Straight out of the package, they are only about 2/3 cooked, and won't roll or fold very well without ripping or tearing. I've seen so many people that either don't know, or don't care to do this, but i can assure you it will taste a lot better, and give you a generally better experience if you take the time to do this.
I love popping a couple on top of my toaster oven while it's in use (I cook in it more these days than my gas stove since electric is slightly cheaper than natural gas). They get warmed by the residual heat, and I wipe the toaster oven down daily so no extra dishes!
You don’t need to use a pan to reheat tortillas, Mexicans just heat them on an open flame by turning the burner on low. Wait 1-2 minutes for the grates to heat up or else the tortillas will stick. It’s ok to cheat and use a spatula. I recommend doing this on a gas stove or microwave for 15-25 seconds, use a cast iron pan if you have an electric stove!
FYI, if someone is really hungry a broken bean won’t matter. If you cook a small chunk of the sausage with the beans 🫘 it will absorb and infuse the beans with flavor and you can save the cubes for the rice.
@@juicy1325 what the hell are you talkin about? LOL
@@hotrod66ify What part didn't you understand?
This video should be watched by anyone moving out for the first time. This would have been nice back when I was a student making 5k a year at walmart.
Check out Running On Plants here on RUclips. You'll hopefully love her Channel.
So true! Every college student should see this.
Why you have kids ?
I raised 5 kids living like this. Price rite and dollar tree. Thanks for the content!
The sad thing is... that when I went to school they had a required for 1 semester class, called home economics.
I took it my freshman year to get it over with, but really learned a ton and enjoyed it! I do have to say that I have used EVERYTHING at least more than once that is learned from that class! I ended up taking it all freshman and sophomore year and am so glad I did!!!!!
I honestly think that they should bring it back.
The class taught you how to budget your bank account first. Checking and savings. Then we moved on to budgeting, paying your bills with what your given. Some were given more, some less, but you had to make it work to pass! You had to budget groceries in. You had a budget for one person and a family. We had a field trip to the grocery store and had to buy groceries with the budget we made for ourselves.
We were also taught the basics of cooking, simple meals such as these to stretch your budget and a nice meal for guests. All of which was graded.
We also learned how to wash, dry and fold your clothes. We were taught to iron a dress shirt, slacks etc. Also learned how to darn a sock, patch pants, sew and hem pants and sew a button back on a shirt.
We also learned about budgeting in gas, insurance and maintenance for your car or cars.
These aren't even all that we were taught! But let me tell you again.. I have used it all, and was so thankful!
I grew up in a dysfunctional family and wanted to move out when I was 13!
After learning and passing with flying colors,at 15 I lied on my application to job corps. You had to be 16 to enter the program. Iv was a troubled youth, had gotten kicked out of school but saw job corps as a way out! And it worked. By the time they figured out I lied in my app I was already 16 and thriving.
I used everything that I learned from that class cause I was on my own in job corps! ( they don't tell you that when applying, lol) but I was lucky and helped a bunch of kids learn.
I learned a trade, got my GED AND saved $1,800 of my own money and when I graduated my savings was another 1,800.. which was a good thing because when I got "home" I didn't have a room my stuff was in boxes and had a cot in the garage. Thx, but no surprise! I only had to stay there for 2 months. Worked 2 jobs until I got into my trade, so I didn't have to be "home" and saved. Turned 18 and bounced. But I've basically been on my own since 15..
Sorry.. but my point was that they should have these classes so today's kids have a clue when they move out! Kids today don't know much and this would help!
So… I clicked on this thinking “no way”, and then you did an amazing job! Thank you for making this video and showing how we can survive and eat pretty well for such a small amount of money. This will help lots of people!
Yeah I thought the same! But she did an absolutely amazing job!!!
Thank you so much for this video!! My family is struggling to make ends meet so I've been following your $10a week videos for myself to save for my kids! Thank you!!!
a slightly cheaper way to make really good spaghetti is to make your own sauce instead of buying jarred. since i was a fresh adult ive quit buying jarred sauce and i buy a can of tomatoes or some fresh ones, whatever i can get more of for less. i end up liking my homemade, cheaper sauce far better than jarred sauce and making it yourself lets you really customize its flavor
This helped immensely, I’m trying to pay off debt and live frugally.
You and I both Brotha!
Same
Are you subscribed to PREPPER PRINCESS?? She wrote a book on living frugally and her channel has many tips.
I beg to second that
✔️💪
As someone who works with meat every day, I'd like to toss this out there that there's nothing wrong with ground beef that comes in a roll or any packaging that blocks it from view. Some people don't like to buy their ground beef that way because they prefer to "see" the meat before buying it, but it's often less expensive than meat that comes on a tray with clear cellophane. And blocking off the light from the meat actually helps keep it fresher longer. And with inflation the way it is, I've noticed that ground beef packed this way is becoming more popular.
I find the tubes of meat strange but that's only because I'm in the UK and we don't package meat that way, we only have it in trays. But thinking about it the tubes must be better for the environment as there is less plastic waste.
I’ve bought the tubes of hamburger for years. I use them for spaghetti, beef and bean and cheese burritos, meatballs and pasta or rice and brown gravy.
Hunger is real in America. I have tried to tell this to my neighbors etc. And they just dont get it. U did a great job stretching your dollars. I am the daughter of a depression era parents from the 30s so I was told over and over not to waste food ever!!!!!!! I enjoyed your weekly budget and meals.
I feel so guilty when I throw food out. Especially when there are hungry people all over the world. My daughter hates it when I want to see everything from the freezer before it goes to the trash.
@@phyllisjones9626 maybe she should watch you throw it in the trash or you rush it into a new recipe. It's tough i know
when the fat people are "food insecure", you have to change the channel for the programming. People REALLY suffering need help..be aware waht "real suffering" is.
@@phyllisjones9626 when I see expiration dates closing in, I get a bunch of styrofoam meal holders from the Dollar Store. I cook up everything approaching expiration, including cake mixes. I make up meals for the homeless, elderly shut ins and feel great dispersing of this food. Nothing goes to waste in our household! My family wouldn’t tolerate food waste and taught me this. My children are always watching for expiration dates. If there is a blackout, I do the same thing. Get ice put it in a cooler to keep it from spoiling. When the electricity is restored I cook it all up and distribute it to the needy. There is never a reason to throw food out.
@@madamzzaj, I try to tell my daughter about wasting food. If something expire a couple months, she wants to throw it out. She laughs when I tell her to leave it. Your idea is a good one. I’m going to make her seal a meal everything. Before it expire, I’m going to make her cook it.
These kind of videos are extremely helpful for people trying to have enough food to live on. Many do hard physical labor such as construction work, picking fruit, brick laying, house keeping or other High calorie requirement jobs or they have to walk everywhere. Beans rice and lentils are definitely the way to stretch your dollars and get the most food.
Came expecting a silly youtube challenge video and left impressed by thoughtful content that truthfully addressed the challenge many face around access to food and potential food security. Well done...keep making great content.
Well what kind of garbage have you been watching lol
@@lectornox challenge videos...
@@lectornox
L
P
It’s good to see this kind of tutorial from someone who understands what it’s really like to eat on a very restricted budget, and not someone who is doing it just for content. Also, thank you for the reminder about using resources for people struggling with food insecurity. So many people think like you did.
I agree. Very relatable to those of us who at some point in our lives had to decide on paying rent or buying food.
Kirby Gorjux Exactly.. There was a couple of very lean years in my early teens with a single mother dying of cancer.. I lived on peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, (and never complained) then, I would boil a little pasta and put a can of stewed tomatoes on the pasta.. Oh, and I was only 13&14 yrs old, so couldn't go get a job.. (this was way before top ramen! 🤷♀️ but I appreciate this video..
I wanted to say your support at the beginning to this who have needed our are in need of help was beautiful. I myself have struggled. I also have been able to help others at times. Your video is great.
I know how very easy it is to find yourself in that position and how hard it can be to reach out for help. I think especially once you've experienced it, you don't want others to struggle the same way. Thanks so much for watching and commenting 💙
We are struggling. With trying to eat healthy at our age it's a matter of life and death I can't tolerate all the salt and I'm not supposed to have sugar after a lifetime of pizza pepsi candy bars and potato chips it's mind boggling I look at bag of lintels and say what
P.S. your cat is beautiful and seems quite interested in your meals as well!!
I agree hand up not a hand out.
If only those in need would realize how many neighbors and friends would find it an honor and privilege to share meals with them. I have never struggled financially, but am naturally frugal. I don't ask for help for anything, but love nothing more than helping others. There are so many people who would enjoy sharing their pantry, especially with those whose pantries are empty.
I stumbled upon your video today and the first thing that I noticed is how caring & kind you are in your presentation. You have some great ideas for different recipes. I think most of us are struggling to purchase food, and for me I'm struggling with new ideas for meals as prices continue to rise. Thank you so much for your thorough meals and your care and concern for others
I agree about reaching out but I will always stand by what I believe that people need to be paid wages that allow them to live without assistance, and able to buy healthy foods not just cheap quality foods.
There are plenty of people living on social security disability that are of “working age” that don’t get enough money from the government (they are either physically, mentally disabled or have mental health issues that prevent them from working). Same with older adults receiving social security or old age pension. They need these assistance programs to make their dollars stretch. I work as a social worker with these populations and it’s so hard to see them receive $497 a month and they’re expected to pay for basic amenities, food and medications. They often have to choose between these items and it’s not right. Assistance programs are very much needed because unfortunately saving doesn’t always cut it and no one seems to like socialism. There’s a lot of gaps and flaws in the US in terms of affordable health care, livable wages and housing.
I noticed how you said nothing about Congress giving itself a 20% raise on top of their $200,000 salary. They also have lucrative expense and travel accounts. How about government wasteful spending cuts so we pay less taxes?!
@@BBB-rd2qi when did they get a 20% raise?
Tkjhe wfay I found the best way to making more money was to not work for someone for wages but rather to be my own employer. By being self employed I work only for my own interests, not someone else’s interests. Other than what I have to give to the government the rest belongs to me.
@@brittm1895 Thanks for your compassion. My son is severely mentally ill. Social security disability is good - but he would be screwed without his parents.
This might have been the most useful video I’ve ever seen on RUclips. I’m definitely going to apply what I’ve learned here to save some money.
I appreciated the note in the beginning about reaching out to local food pantries. This was very thought out and informative. I appreciate your effort and will definitely be showing members in my community 🧡
Also local store who throw away breads and baked good...try not trashing them. Drive them to your local pantries. You can also give them to support groups at you local churches.
You rock! U did an awesome job and I picked up a lot of great tips. Keep shining 🥰
@@farrah6734 Which stores do that?
That's really impressive. I'd just watched another channel how to live with $30 a week and I thought that was impressive and it was. Kudos to you! Kids now a day need a real life lesson like this. This is why I love RUclips because I can share this video with my kids. People that know how to save early and be frugal while they are young usually retired earlier than everyone else. I really believe that.
I am ready for the week! All I could spend was $8.00 bc $2.00 went to the printer. It is Tuesday. All my meals are either made, prepped, or planned! You rock Lisa!
I shop at Dollar Tree most of the time for groceries, though I do go to Kroger or Walmart a few times here and there. One thing to bear in mind is that everything at Dollar Tree is literally $1...which means if you want a can of beans, corn, or peas - or a bottle of ketchup - you're straight up paying $1 for each. BUT...those items can be found for less than $1 at a regular grocery store. In fact, sometimes those cans are only .79 or .89 at a larger grocery store. So even though it sounds "cheap" to shop at Dollar Tree, it's not such a bad idea to grab some items at the local grocer instead. EDIT: I'm just posting this with the assumption that you could be just as close to a larger grocery store. If not, then Dollar Tree is great.
Yep, these are absolutely great points to keep in mind! The Dollar Tree definitely isn't the best bang for your buck for a lot of things - especially canned goods and foods that quickly get cheaper when bought in bulk like flour.
She did mention this in the video and also that she was considering the fact dollar tree was the only option for some people. However the frozen veggies are right on the money here.
@@lstj2979 I don't remember if it was said in the video. I probably missed it. I think it's simply a matter of the type of item you want. I know some frozen foods are cheaper at Dollar Tree, but some other frozen items are cheaper at Kroger, or instance some TV dinners are only .88 at Kroger, and some cans are only .79 or .89. It's all good. Overall it's much cheaper at Dollar Tree.
Yeah, and with the gas prices going up... 1 stop can help.
@@lstj2979 I really liked the bag of stir fry veggies i bought there.
You are right, many people don’t have access to larger stores. I used to be one of those people (no car, in the city, no grocery stores around) and these kinds of videos would have really helped me back then! Learning how to cook on a budget is such a useful skill.
Exactly! Thanks for watching :)
Ppppp
@@brendasepulveda4363 What?
@@tiredapplestar what?
@@brendasepulveda4363 You commented Ppppp. I was wondering what that means. I guess you typed that by accident.
You’ve changed how I look at dollar tree options and my kitchen will never be the same. Many thanks from NY!❤
The beans, rice, and veggies looked quite tasty while you were preparing it!
Here's a tip on tortilla wrapping...steam the tortilla's and that makes them more pliable and stretch. How to steam easy: pick up one of those splatter reducing screens from the kitchen section of the Dollar Tree, place it over a skillet with water. Place the tortillas on top of the screen. Use tongs, they get hot!
BTW, your rolling skills are top notch. Very helpful information. You have certainly been a joy to watch!
Thanks so much 💙 I actually was recently gifted a tortilla warmer, and that has been a game changer. That's a really great idea about the splatter screen though, I'll definitely keep that in mind in case I ever need it!
What a great demo! I made my food budget work like that for years and learned my chops from my best guru: Mom. She was a product of both a big family of mostly ravenous boys and then losing their family home in a Cat. 5 tornado in 1936 in MS right in the peak of the Depression. I think her Mom could make a meal out of flour, bacon and air! If you had a small window herb garden and kept a bacon grease container those batches of lentils and beans and the rice dishes would all taste even better, but you know that : ) This was an exercise to prove a point. I hope you inspired thousands of desperate and terrified people all over during this difficult time. This country has to figure out a better way to get back to a reliable food distribution pattern! You may have saved some lives, you know.
BACON GREASE!!! That hit me in the feels. Nice reminder of my childhood years at grandma's house.
I always save the bacon grease. Just stir fried some cabbage with bacon grease
The country needs to learn how to cook again. I don't mean from TV chefs, I mean learn to cook ordinary things from ordinary ingredients. The supermarkets are not helpful. They are full of industrial packaged and expensive scrap,.
I like the way you cooked this in front of us.not just buy the groceries
You are not only fun to watch, but I’m constantly amazed at how you use everything up so wisely !! Your family is definitely reaping the benefits of your clever, and healthy cooking !! Great Job Lisa, keep it up 🥰
I love what you did with the rice and raw egg....this is normal in Japanese cuisine and how you make the beans is technically correct....the way you cook makes me feel like not all people can't cook..I have hope in humanity again
Yes, I love Japanese dishes! I got paranoid on camera at the last second about how to pronounce tamago kake gohan and got scared I'd completely butcher it 🤣
Thanks for watching!
I worked for Holliday Inn founder Kemmons Wilson in the 80s. He grew up during the depression and told the story of his family having a bag of beans for a week. He was later worth 300 million dollars. He always remembered where he came from.
So he was poor for 30 years and the rich for 50, where is the balance in that
Yes its great that people never forget where they've come from.and I just watches a small bio about him and how he loved the trademark neon signs that holiday inn used to have but sadley after he died they no longer use .
So Fuck him for working hard and becoming a successful hotel chain owner?? Simp
@@awilson816aw
Well said.
There was no remark about "Balance". There was no Balance, or Fairness during the Great Depression. Google it up or read "The Grapes of Wrath".
The quote was, "He never forgot where he came from." I'm sure the reference was about being, cold & hungry, whearing rags, no shoes. Watching his family, & those around him suffering from the same, & the sickness, dieing, the fear. The friends he made, the scarce Job's available. The physical cost to the body's of family & friends for each $1.00 earned, & exactly what that dollar could buy.
He never forgot, means he did something about it. For others. Never turned away from people he knew, grew up with, worked beside etc... what's wrong with that?
@@johnsandraco1086
I'm betting you were asking this same question in 2020 standing in line @ the Grocery store waiting to get inside the door. Then looking around at the empty shelves.
"Where's the Balance"???
Actually, frozen and canned fruits and veggies last longer and still have their valuable content. This was awesome!
Î km unuk is a great place to go get o place go fon xqq we l thto y❤️👄💣❤️😁e world dor riviera f get h vy for f
@Joe Blow When you don't have any options, Frozen is better than nothing. Canned fruit isn't best, but it's not "candy" either. There's canned fruits that have no added sugars and are in fruit juice.
@@crystald3655 frozen is always the best choice after fresh. Most of the nutrients in canned have been cooked out. Most of the time food is frozen in just hours after it’s been picked.
Frozen veg is good but canned has added sodium.
Personally, I'll usually grab frozen veg over fresh. Don't have to worry about it going bad at the end of the week.
I'm just happy to see some wahmen still cook. The other day we had a bbq at work & none of the white girls cooked anything. Store bought potato salad, I am talking a zero sandwich environment.
Thank you so, so much for this. Im in my early 20s struggling to live on my own and this budget shopping plus cooking tutorial is great!
I've made many a gourmet meal from Dollar tree over the years. The frozen section was a Godsend when my children were younger and my seemingly glamorous bank job was barely covering my living expenses... I still make my Dollar tree run every two weeks 😁
This was very, very well done. Great balanced use of rice, beans, eggs, and frozen veggies with some other things thrown in.
Thanks for watching, and I appreciate the positive feedback!
@Joe Blow Yep a little heavy handed, her only fault. Too much salt and seasonings which already contains salt
@Joe Blow check out Running On Plants. You'll live a lot longer with her.
It’s dinner time. I’m hungry and was thinking about what to go eat for less than $10 and you ate all week on $10. I need to rethink my eating game. Thank you!
right, I was thinking sometimes I have a hard time not spending 10 bucks on just lunch.
She did not spend $10.00 for a week. The spices alone could be a extra $10.00 if not more.
@@christopherhorton821 that point is moot as they were already in the house and considered pantry staples. No one buys a new thing of salt, oil, etc every grocery trip.
@@bunniie143 You would be WRONG. the only thing that I have in my house that I would not have to buy extra is the Salt. I know a lot of people that don't have a single spice in their houses. That would be a extra expense for a lot of people.
@@christopherhorton821 idk where you live, but you can get all those from the dollar store. You can also get huge things of salt for like $0.80, even smaller sizes of seasonings, spices and oils last longer than a week, if you're going through entre things of oil oil or a random seasoning in a week, every week, you're using too much and need to ration better. And before you tell me I'm rich and ignorant, I'm poor, I grew up poor and have had to learn a lot of stretching basics and staples so you don't have to buy them every week. ✌️
Lisa Dawn you're brilliant and your content in this video is something every community needs more of - respect, honesty and valuable information. Well done and on behalf of all who can be inspired here, thank you.
I’ve recently cut down my working hours to part time and have been learning to feed myself on a tight budget, the Dollar Tree has been good for a lot of basic food items that I use along with fresh produce from Savemart. The meals you made from the Dollar Tree items were nutritious and looked tasty, I admire you for being smart and frugal for a young lady!
I think you did a excellent job of picking healthy food from dollar tree for $10. You gave a lot of people on tight budgets choices to eat by. Thank you
I'm doing da same ting tings get real real quick. Struggle is real. And I'm working trying to do extra work. And I don't even buy food I go to Elementary schools and ask dem nicely for food. Life is real I have to get a new roof for my mama house.
To be honest, I grew up extremely poor, so I learned how to stretch money, I liked your combinations you made and it gave me some ideas for new recipes on a budget. You are very relatable and look forward to more votes, God Bless!!
I would absolutely LOVE to see someone like Gordon Ramsay take on this challenge. Can you see him cooking with $10 a week? LOL!
I can picture it,
Gordon Ramsay: Olive oil in.
Calculator: $15
Gordon Ramsay: Fuck meeee.
LOL
I would rather eat her meals ANYDAY than Ramsey's attitude snob food. She cooks with love!
Gordon Ramsay is a joke. This beautiful soul can out chef him. any day of the week.
At our local grocery store they often have “day old” bags of really nice fruits and veggies for a dollar. I can’t tell how much those help too, and go a long way during the week! You just have to sort of time the best day to nab these terrific deals. Terrific video and keep up the good work 🙂
These stores also have marked down meat on certain days of the week...can get some good deals
how do u find out which days of the week they put these items out? Ive never seen this before and could really use it
@@archery411 Well I shop at a Kroger store-so it may be that not all grocery stores do this nice thing. I’ve had pretty good luck on Tuesdays and Wednesdays!
@@gotwobag7876 I shop at Kroger so I’m going to keep my eye out, as I’ve never seen this before. What a nice surprise it would be though, to come across this! Thanks for sharing!
@@archery411 you can ask the staff, they should know.
I was curious to see what kinds of groceries Dollar Tree had so I searched RUclips, and I came across your video. The opening of this video melted my heart, and the entire content of this video will come in so handy for those looking to make the most of what they have. I truly appreciate you and your video. Amazing human and video!
Thank you for the kind comment, it means a lot! 💙
Dollar Tree gas a pretty good frozen/refrigerator section , canned goods section and spices!
Thank you for this video. Even if we don't need to make $10 stretch for a week, we can incorporate some of the ideas to stretch out our food budget. Well done!
These remind me a lot of how I ate when I was just starting out. Simple meals, repeated ingredients , but all tasty. As the weeks went on and on my pantry wad greatly expanded because of food carryover because at that time I was just feeding myself so I didn't go through an entire bag of beans for example.
I just saw your video ! Actually, every aspect of my life is cheap- except food. I live in a shack for $300 per month, drive a $500 car...i take home over $2k per month and I'm taking care of only myself. Even though i like a steak, fried seafood & the like- i really admire how thrifty you are with food. Best wishes, Old Greg.
I had never paid attention to all the frozen veggies at Dollar Tree before, so thank you! MUCH cheaper than the other grocery store in my town 🙌🏻
Walmart has frozen veggies for under $1 a bag
I have traveled to Europe Switzerland and other places and there is no place like America there is no place like America believe me
This is one of the most wholesome videos I’ve ever seen. I work at a grocery store and it just makes me realize how much stock people put into prepared foods over just cooking for themselves. Amazing video and it really just made my day. I love your attitude and this really makes me happy to know people like you are out there just to help others.
This is so helpful for a lot of people on a restrictive budget, but honestly, everyone could stand to be economical when it comes to meals. Thank you so much for this!
I’ve been very fortunate in my life to never have to worry about if I will have enough food. But I can imagine it must be so difficult. I was amazed you were able to make such nutritious meals for a WEEK on $10. I may not have loved every meal and certainly some more expensive additions with would improved them. But I would have eaten any one of those meals without hesitation and would be nourished. Nice job!
Yes, we too have been very fortunate, and I just watched the video out of curiosity and disbelief. She has taught me a lesson, and my wife and I need to rethink our money management. I’m glad a came across this video!
On god jit
I made a $15 a week menu plan and right before the economy went crazy I knew I could eat on $15 for the whole week..just from a regular grocery store. So this is pretty darn interesting.
Great idea, good common sense. I like your idea and the result. Your hair is gorgeous also. Love your videos. Thank you!
The “happy food dance” she did while eating her bean burrito tells you how good it is. Excellent video. Thanks for sharing
came to comment this. no greater joy than seeing someone excited to eat their own cooking, even when it seems simple. cooking, eating, sharing food are like the most important things in the world
@@tywoodard6328 well said
WOW!!! The Cooking Channel needs to hire you with your own TV Show making 7 Figures per 25 years, a new home with a bad ass kitchen and your own truck to buy all the groceries you need! My crown off to you! You are an Angel 👼🏻 in disguise. Blessings your way!
Absolutely impressive. The only thing I felt was missing was some cheese. Otherwise, really amazing how you made it last and incorporated as many veggies as possible within the restriction on the budget. I especially love the no-waste approach. Definitely rethinking our food management. Thank you for this!
Yes, after watching her do this for a week, it made us want to re think as well how we manage our money and grocery shopping. We are very wasteful and that’s a shame.
I agree
I was thinking how good cheese would have been as well. Change it to $12 a week and get the cheese and a jar of salsa😎👍
Another You Tuber has commented that she has to 'cheat' a bit on her Dollar Tree meals with cheese, and, buy the cheese elsewhere. The Dollar Tree cheese just isn't as good, doesn't melt as well, etc.
I LOVE that you tell people to get help! As someone that lived my first 10 years using that help, it is so needed. Now, I am like you, telling people to get the help they deserve.
This was awesome. So many people are struggling these days. I really appreciate what you have done here. God bless you and your family
For us singles, this is the way to go. Smaller bags of frozen vegetables and meats. Great planning and execution!!
Hi!
In the future, the rice water (the cloudy water you get that you poured down the drain) is great for plants! And for washing your face. It has some nutrients for the plants and apparently leaves a smoother, more moisturizer-like effect on your face!
Great tip!
Good ideas but I'd say only use that water on plants you don't intend to eat later due to arsenic content in rice which rinsing helps remove a bit.
I've also heard that rice water put down the drain can help cog your plumbing. I don't know if that's true. but thought I'd share.
@@itsjustme7487 not sure about rice water, but rice is one not to put down the drain (even if you have a disposal) since it can swell and clump.
@@bc1969214 Thank you. Like I said I wasn't sure but another opinion is always welcome.
Honestly this is more realistic video, both on pricing and portions compared to others. My wife immediately said it reminded her of university... Great video
Ten extra points for cat cameo. Growing up we had pinto beans a lot. It was flavorful with a ham hock and filling. A piece of bread under it helped fill us up too.
Me to but had homemade biscuits, I still eat it, yummy
Love pinto beans. I do a pot of beans each week, switching between types depending on mood and availability
Grew on red beans, white beans, and any other bean u can bane
My mom made dried beans and cornbread a lot. She grew veggies and we had fresh green onions with it most of the year. She dried red peppers and liked the flakes in hers. She'd save a bone from ham in the fridge/ freezer when ever we had it to flavor them.
At my house we called this beans and bones. I learned how to fry cornbread to go with. A splash of vinegar and some chopped white onion on the beans, cornbread firmly in hand and a small piece of hock in each bowl. Mmm
i can't figure out why anyone would downvote your video, Lisa. you have a great attitude and personality to do this! lentils and beans are great sources of protein and can fill one up well. good for you for sharing those who are in dire straits that it IS possible to eat this way for very little money. well done you! :)
I think you did great! I've seen so many of these videos, and nobody yet has done as well as you have. People just don't know how to stretch food.
Thanks so much! I think a lot of times it's a skill that comes out of necessity.
Thanks!
Thank you! 💙
You're so resourceful and clever. I loved this, even though I'm not in a position to require this level of frugality. Thank you. I found this really interesting.
Hey look at me,I eat steak and drink wine but cool video-John Harrington
@@tattedguy9579 🤣
@@tattedguy9579 pardon Me?
Do You have any grey poupaun?
Dollar tree has a salt free seasoning like Mrs. Dash that I like really well. For anyone needing to eat on a tight budget, it really helps to add a lot of flavor without needing a whole spice cabinet.
Thanks for the tip. I usually skip it at the store bc it's so pricey for the small amt. I'll look for it at the dollar store now. ☕
I clicked on this because of curiosity. After seeing what you are doing here, I have to just say bless you ❤️ You are an angel and a gem on RUclips
My dad's favorite quick bachelor dinner when mom was out of town was a can of hormel chili with beans over a pile of white rice. Done.
Get fancy with some shredded cheddar and onions on top
I just watched your video and I noticed that your low budget menu is like what most people eat in Mexico...rice, beans and tortillas, which is very good for your health and budget! No hot dogs and fries! Very good ideas! Watching you from Montreal, Quebec...
Thank you for sharing this, it might just be what a family needs to survive. You have a lot of wisdom young lady. God Bless.
This is absolutely gold for those living on a budget. Thank you!
Girl, I just had to comment. You outdid yourself with this video. Very well planned out meals, good nutrition, low cost, meal planning, freezing, etc., You truly need your own show. You even put in a few mishaps or real life issues of cooking, spilling, old countertop, etc, so real, haha! You are simply amazing. I'm definitely a fan. Video well done. Blessings and please do more!!! Absolutely love all your creations!
Its ONLY Dollar Tree 4 me!!!
They have excellent things, freezer & fridge items are awesome! I always got my frozen fruit to make smoothies. Eggs, cheese, breads, seasonings, tea, coffee, chips, cleaning supplies ( brand name), party & beauty supplies etc.....
I always go there when I move into a new place for cleaning supplies, cooking utensils, paper goods & dishes, silverware & REAL GLASS drinking glassess.