How to save money on spices?
In this day and age, people have mostly given up on cooking. Only those who are passionate about cooking take it up and that too for mere entertainment purposes. However, what if I told you that taking full interest in this life skill and pursuing it actively, can help you save a large chunk of money that you work so hard to make. Going to the grocery store to buy a small bottle of custom seasoning blend can alone cost $4. Therefore, it is better for you to take the time out to think over your life choice and start shopping smartly. There are a few tips mentioned below on how you can make delicious meals at home and that too in a budget:
Start buying spices in bulk
It is a surefire way to save money by switching to bulk spices instead of custom seasoning blends. This is because many grocery stores sell the bulk spices at a price per pound. This means that even if you buy spice in a small quantity, it will cost you way less than if you bought a jar of seasoning mix. There are many plus points to buying spices in bulk. Some of them are mentioned below:
You get the healthier and fresher alternative to bottled spices
One of the main benefits of buying the spices in bulk quantity is that you get the freshest spices. This means that these spices can pack your meals with flavor and are healthier than packaged ones. Besides this, more people are now seeing the benefits of buying spices in bulk so the inventory moves quickly. Another advantage of buying in bulk is that you can refill when you have run out.
You can buy the exact amount you need
Another advantage of running to the grocery to buy the spices in bulk is that you can buy the spices in the exact quantity that you require. This also means that you do not have to stock up on a particular spice if you are trying it for the first time.
Customize your spice jars
Another added advantage of buying the spices in bulk is that you can make your own custom spice jars. These spice jars can hold your frequently used spices and then you can mix and match them in your coking to create a new flavor.
Locate the best place to buy spices in bulk
Once you have gotten used to the idea of buying the spices in bulk for your home cooking, the next step is to find the places that actually sell bulk spices. There are many stores that offer seasoning mix in bulk but not all of them sell individual spices in bulk quantity. Therefore, you have your work cut out for you to find the stores that offer the best prices on spices. Below are some common places that offer spices in bulk quantity:
Bulk stores
There are many bulk stores that offer spices in bulk quantity. However, the downside is that they offer large bottles of spices so you cannot get out of buying one for testing purposes.
Grocery Store
There are many grocery stores that provide you with the option to buy spices in bulk quantity. They are also more customer-friendly as you can buy the spices according to your need.
Online shopping
When all else fails, the last resort to buying spices in bulk quantity is searching for them online. However, it is recommended that you search for a reliable source and then settle on a good deal.
Start your spice garden
Another great option to attain fresh spices is by growing your own spices. This way you will get to use the freshest of the spices. Herbs such as oregano, basil, and cilantro are available at a very costly price at the grocery stores. However, they are surprisingly easy to grow at your own home. This way you can have fresh herbs at your fingertips all year long.
Make your custom seasoning blends
After you have gathered all the spices, you can start by making your custom seasoning blends. The bottled jars that are available at stores are very pricey. Therefore, it is better to make one at home. This way you can match the taste and the level of spiciness according to your need.
