FOOD FOR THOUGHT
From pasta and rice to vinegars, sauces, spices and tinned veg, your larder is full of cheap ingredients. It’s time to show it some love, says Lisa Harris
Having a well-stocked pantry is your secret weapon against inflation. Tins, jars and dried goods keep for months, they’re often cost effective, and they’re always on hand for a quick and easy dinner. The trick is to use ingredients in inventive, money-saving ways. Here’s how to save money and power up the pantry in 2023.
1 SHOP WHAT YOU’VE GOT
Those almostempty bags of pasta in your storecupboard will make a tasty tuna bake; that halfopen packet of lentils is perfect for soups, dhals and stews.
2 Don’t forget the honey…
‘Honey is under-used!’ says Sarah Akhurst, food director, Sainsbury’s magazine. ‘It’s brilliant to add to tomato sauces, with a splash of vinegar to balance the flavour (especially if using cheaper tinned tomatoes); drizzle over baked feta or goat’s cheese on toast; or mix chilli flakes with honey to glaze sausages or chicken thighs.’
3 Eat the nut
Nut butters are a brilliant way to bring a bit of luxe to your larder. Add a little to stir-fries or spicy stews, and dollop a spoonful onto porridge.
4 BUY IN BULK
Save by buying large bags or tubs of larder staples, then stash and decant a convenient amount into jars.
5 Add heat
Dried chillies are a cheap and delicious way of adding a fiery hit to food – and their intensity lasts up to six months. Grind into a powder, make chilli flakes, or rehydrate in a bowl of lukewarm water to use.
6 Planyour meals
Once a week, look through your cupboards and plan a shopping list. ‘It doesn’t have to be special – we eat the same foods over and over again!’ says financial blogger Francesca Henry (@the.moneyfox). ‘Keep an eye on food-waste apps like Olio and Too Good To Go for any giveaways in your area too.’
7 Store food properly
Keep opened packets in jars or airtight containers. Food will last longer and your cupboards stay neater too; label them so you know exactly what’s in them to save time.
8 UPGRADE YOUR OIL
‘If you’re going to spend money on one thing, make it olive oil,’ says Conor Gadd, head chef at Trullo. ‘The superior flavour means you use less but enjoy it more. Get inventive and try it in ice cream, cakes and cookie recipes, or try mashed potatoes with olive oil and Parmesan.’
9 CHALLENGE YOURSELF
‘Set yourself a pantry challenge at least once a week,’ says Dawn Heels, money management expert (@dawn_heels). ‘You’re allowed to buy a couple of fresh items, but everything else has to come from the pantry. This really helps stop overspending on food.’
10 Make it mal
