With the crisis in the economy, the cost of food has really caught our attention. Cauliflower at $8 a head recently made the news along with other substantial increases in fruits and vegetables.
The decline of the Canadian dollar along with the drought conditions in the United States where a lot of our produce comes from are the main causes. So what are we to do to soften the sudden blow to our food budget? Maybe we will have to be creative and introduce ways to extend the food money. I am mainly a “from scratch” cook.
While living on the farm a vegetable garden was planted in the spring and the produce was used in various ways. Now, living in the city these items are purchased from the store or else from the many greenhouses and market gardens in the city and area. There are many ways to plan ahead with produce when in season by freezing and canning. Some produce comes from out of our growing area and has to be brought in, therefore, the choice is limited and enjoyed when available.
Many depend on fast and processed foods to put a meal together. The art of cooking from scratch is foreign to them. It is surprising to hear how many are unable to put a meal together because they have no idea how to cook or bake. In a conversation with an individual working at the local food bank, I was surprised when told that some don’t know how to utilize items given them such as soup bones. This is a humble food which can be made into a nourishing soup with vegetables to feed a hungry family.
Perhaps with the high costs this will encourage the planting of a garden this spring to stretch the grocery budget. Get out the cookbooks to make something great tasting for the family which will cost less. Happy cooking and baking!
