In today’s economy, saving money is a top priority for many families. One of the most effective ways to cut down on expenses is to start making some of your grocery items at home. Not only can this save you money, but it can also be a healthier and more sustainable alternative to buying pre-packaged, processed foods.
Let’s review 15 grocery items that are surprisingly simple and cost-effective to make at home.
1. Bread
Bread is a staple in most households. But did you know that you can make your own bread at home for a fraction of the cost? All you need are some basic ingredients like flour, yeast, salt, and water. Plus, homemade bread is free from preservatives and additives that are commonly found in store-bought bread.
You can start with a simple white or wheat bread recipe, and then experiment with adding different grains, nuts, and seeds for added nutrition and flavor. Invest in a good bread machine to make the process even easier.
2. Yogurt
Yogurt is another item that is surprisingly easy to make at home. All you need is some milk and a small amount of store-bought yogurt to use as a starter culture. The process involves heating the milk, cooling it to the right temperature, adding the starter, and then letting it ferment for several hours.
Making your own yogurt not only saves you money, but it also allows you to control the amount of sugar and other additives. Plus, you can experiment with different flavors by adding fruit, honey, or granola.
3. Granola
Speaking of granola, why not make your own? Store-bought granola can be expensive and often contains added sugars and oils. Making your own granola at home is easy, cost-effective, and allows you to customize the ingredients to your liking.
You can mix oats with nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and a sweetener like honey or maple syrup, then bake it until it’s crispy and golden. Enjoy your homemade granola with yogurt, milk, or as a snack on its own.
4. Pasta Sauce
Buying jarred pasta sauce can be convenient, but making your own at home is much more economical and healthier. You can use fresh tomatoes, garlic, onions, herbs, and spices to create a delicious sauce that’s free from preservatives and high levels of sodium.
Freeze leftover sauce in portion-sized containers for quick and easy meals. Experiment with different types of tomatoes and herbs to find your family’s favorite combination.
5. Salad Dressing
Store-bought salad dressings can be full of artificial ingredients and high in sugar and sodium. Making your own salad dressing at home is quick, easy, and much healthier. You can make a basic vinaigrette with just olive oil, vinegar, and some seasonings.
Experiment with different types of vinegar, oils, and add-ins like mustard, honey, or fresh herbs to create your own signature dressing.
6. Peanut Butter
Making your own peanut butter at home is incredibly easy and much cheaper than buying it from the store. All you need are peanuts, a food processor, and a little bit of salt.
You can also make almond butter, cashew butter, or any other nut butter the same way. Plus, homemade nut butter is free from added sugars and oils that are commonly found in store-bought versions.
7. Jam
Making your own jam at home can be a fun and rewarding project. You can use fresh, in-season fruits and control the amount of sugar that goes into it.
Home-made jam not only tastes better, but it also makes a great gift. Try making different types of jam like strawberry, raspberry, or blueberry, or get creative with combinations like peach and lavender or apple and cinnamon.
8. Pickles
Making your own pickles at home is simple and cost-effective. All you need are some cucumbers, vinegar, water, salt, and dill.
You can also pickle other vegetables like carrots, radishes, or peppers. Homemade pickles are free from artificial colors and preservatives that are common in store-bought versions.
9. Vanilla Extract
Making your own vanilla extract at home is incredibly easy and much cheaper than buying it from the store. All you need are some vanilla beans and vodka.
Homemade vanilla extract makes a great gift and adds an authentic vanilla flavor to your baking. Plus, it lasts indefinitely, so you can make a large batch and use it for years to come.
10. Pizza Dough
Making your own pizza dough at home is cheaper and healthier than buying it from the store. Plus, you can customize the thickness and flavor to your liking.
You can freeze leftover dough for future pizza nights. Try adding some herbs or garlic to the dough for added flavor.
11. Vegetable Broth
Instead of buying canned vegetable broth, try making your own at home. You can use vegetable scraps like carrot peels, onion skins, and celery leaves that you would normally throw away.
Homemade vegetable broth is a great way to reduce waste and save money. Plus, it’s free from the high levels of sodium and preservatives found in store-bought versions.
12. Tortillas
Making your own tortillas at home is cheaper and healthier than buying them from the store. Plus, homemade tortillas taste so much better!
You can make a large batch and freeze the leftovers for future meals. Try making both corn and flour tortillas to see which one you prefer.
13. Ice Cream
14. Pesto
Making your own pesto at home is incredibly easy and much cheaper than buying it from the store. All you need are some fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.
Homemade pesto is a great way to use up excess basil and it freezes well for future meals. Try using other herbs or greens like parsley, arugula, or spinach for a twist on the traditional pesto.
15. Almond Milk
Making your own almond milk at home is cheaper and healthier than buying it from the store. Plus, you can control the sweetness and thickness to your liking.
You can use homemade almond milk in your coffee, smoothies, or baking. Plus, it’s a great alternative for those who are lactose intolerant or following a vegan diet.