“Just a couple of my own tips, learned from experience, to help stretch food dollars even more when it comes to dried spices and herbs. I have found that the baking aisle is an excellent start to shopping for these products, but you can often find them additionally in the ethnic foods areas of many supermarkets, and other less-thought-of resources.
For many varieties of spices and herbs, those little red-capped bottles are kind of non-budget price, but if you go to a different aisle, you may find it more within your budget if you look under a different brand name, and sometimes in different packaging such as a cellophane packet.
I buy spices at the dollar store. I find some things such as dried dill weed, at Ikea, if you live near one, in a very large paper/foil packet (look in the marketplace among the kitchenwares). There is a large Asian supermarket near my home, I recently bought a large bottle of ground coriander for $1.69 there. They also have many other varieties as well, paprika, cumin, ginger, even lemongrass powder. Hispanic markets are another great source, as are Middle Eastern shops for even more variety.
One last thing: I have read that spices and herbs are past their prime when they no longer have a fragrance, but I find that if you can rub it in your hands and still have fragrance, it is still going to flavor your foods well.
I do think you should have specified whether you were talking about dill seed or dill weed; it’s the dill seeds that are used in pickling. But it’s the dried or fresh dill weed that “makes” the dishes you mentioned. I also sprinkle dried dill on the top of creamy tomato soup, and it goes into the pot when I make homemade chicken soup.
Can you tell I use lots of spices and herbs lol? I hate boring food. I have gourmet tastes on a food-stamp budget. Also, I simply do not have the budget to allow me to dine out as often as I’d like, so I try to recreate different tastes at home.”
See? Now THAT’S the kind of neighbor you wish you had if you do not live next door to Max! Can you just imagine the wonderful aromas that waft from that kitchen? Mmmmm…
For people who utilize SNAP or WIC funds; people who depend on food pantries and/or food commodities; for people who use Farmers Market Coupons and Angel Food Ministries; and for those who simply pinch pennies wherever possible to stretch their food budgets this is helpful information.
We are so happy and grateful to have the Maxes and the Sandras and the Rainys who are so faithful to share their kitchens and cooking ideas! KEEP them coming, kids! Here’s where to direct them: foodstampscookingclub@gmail.com.
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I love international markets. You can get such great deals on things like spices and rice. I remember an Asian market I visited in Kansas when my dh and I attended K-State. It had such great and unique things. But the most suprising thing was how cheap it was.
If you live near an Amish community, you can get good deals on spices and things from their stores. I buy all kinds of things at the Amish market – spices, seasonings, gluten, baking items like cornstarch, baking powder, etc, and sometimes an occassional treat.
It’s a bit of a drive – 45 minutes – but it’s worth it. They carry some things I can’t get in any regular store.
Sandra
Oh, for SURE, Sandra. Not everybody has access to those international markets unless they order online but those prices are usually superior to more traditional store shelves’…and the EXPERIENCE of the markets can’t be beat!
So fun to have you pop in with your words of wisdom again. Thanks oodles.
Hugs,
Mother Connie
Oh, I know. I just wanted to add that comment to encourage people to look in places they normally wouldn’t look – outside of Wal-Mart and their local grocery store. Sometimes if you ask around you can find better places to shop.
And living in the very rural area that I do, shopping online is a real help to my budget. Granted you can’t use food stamps or WIC online, but if you have a few extra dollars (tax returns, overtime,etc), it’s a good way to put them to use.
Sandra
ALWAYS a joy to have your comments here, Sandra!
Another advantage of online shopping is the PARKING! grin
Just so you know, I am dealing with a broken wrist. This is why I have not made any new posts lately. Thanks to you and the Club for your patient understanding….
Hugs,
Mother Connie