15 EASY WAYS TO SAVE GROCERY MONEY | HOW I KEEP SUCH A LOW BUDGET

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

What are some of your favorite hacks to save?

[@swissherbgirl2917]

I add lentils to minced meat. Keep the veggie scraps to make veggie stock. Also love to make bone broth.

[@margaritamcdonald1971]

Hi Stacey, most of my life I've had a limited budget as far as groceries, & what I've always done in the past & still do to this day is I always plan my menu before hand & only shop for that, (will top up on staples along the way) no wasting food or buy unnecessary items, & I find shopping fortnightly saves $$ as well.

[@robynrauna623]

Learn how to make the most of what you have - whether its food or cooking utensils or appliances. You are only limited by your own imagination which is why reading about new recipes & cuisines is good. Think about how basic ingredients can be used interchangeably e.g what you shared Stacey about rolled oats. If you know the cost of what you buy regularly don’t be put off visiting Asian or Indian supermarkets to see if items there are cheaper and/or better quality. Make use of your freezer to plan and prep in advance meals. Don’t waste kai - leftovers can still be delicious & nutritious for another meal. Are you making good use of your air fryer, slow cooker etc - could these be put to better use? Menu planning weekly or monthly is a game changer - if you can commit to your set budget buying according to your plan it will help. Take the wins when they turn up - taking advantage of sales, bargains by treating yourself every now & again. Depriving yourself is no fun. Be kind to yourself & cut yourself some slack.

[@djkronsberg]

I have been using powdered milk and powdered heavy cream for a good year. Only buy milk when I make yogurt or tzasiki. If I get off my shift at the market and walk to get milk or half and half ,I will leave with 10 more things, LOL Wasn't going to say anything, but a commercial for my store came on just now. Algorithms ha ha Pizza dough in the bread machine is super cheap (use it for Stromboli or calzone too)

[@gailmcdonald1946]

Cash Really is King Stacey, if we allow Cash to be desolved, ,things will take a huge downturn for the majority, do your do-diligence people!

[@margaretbagur3553]

Ignore elitist snobs that are out there bashing everyone else. Your channel is interesting and of value. And fun. Your recipes are not only delicious but also something that most people can recreate. The tips you give are helpful as a lot of average wage earners are trying to stretch to live better. There is also joy in following the work of a gal who not only tends to her home but also is there for her adult children. Keep rocking!

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

Nawww, thank you so much X

[@gailmcdonald1946]

Well said ❤

[@robynrauna623]

I also love your humour Stacey 😊

[@correenmalone9424]

Well said Margaret ❤

[@deesmith7880]

I don’t claim to be the most intelligent person on earth, but I have two degrees (and I’m sure there are many viewers of your channel that are even more educated than I am) and I see it as a sign of knowledge and wisdom to be mindful with how we spend our money on groceries. To me, being frugal is an invaluable life skill. The (assumed) man that made the awful comment about you needing to be better educated so you no longer need to eat ‘cheap’ food is horrifically ignorant about so many things, I would need to write an essay to articulate everything. You are brilliant. He is an idiot.

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

Thanks, it's so lovely to have such supportive viewers, I appreciate your kind words :-)

[@JesusistheOnlyWay222]

Yes! He is the uneducated one in this area 😊

[@adamfreeman5609]

Absolutely agree. Disgraceful behaviour.. The way to acquire wisdom is to seek it out and through the journey you gain understanding.

[@Weavemoss]

If that man was well educated he'd understand frugality and the beauty of mindful spending that you teach. Your wisdom is so valuable in times like these when people can barely afford to eat regular meals. I for one am grateful of your videos thank you so much. ❤

[@ChihuahuamomX3]

There are always a few bad apples in the bunch, don't listen to them. I hope this "gentleman" will never hit a block on his high road. Keep up the great work! I enjoy your channel. 😊

[@Steph-we8jg]

Oh he will I'm sure!

[@gilljames9005]

I’m willing to bet “that gentleman “ doesn’t have a Woman’s Weekly article written about him 😂 Thanks so much for all the effort you put into sharing delicious, budget-friendly recipes - many of us truly appreciate you ❤

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

Thanks so much for your comment and for watching. I truly appreciate the support.

[@robynrauna623]

Word! ❤

[@sarahbarton4100]

And here I thought a paramedic was pretty highly educated, silly me! 😂😅😂😅😂

[@deaniek1180]

Hi Stacy, My husband and I both have extremely good paying jobs and have always lived on a strict budget. It just makes sense! We have never had sh1t meals. Love your recipes and budget tips. Keep it coming. 😊

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

100 % I would rather save money for other things instead of making supermarket owners richer.

[@dawncampbell4221]

The " gentleman" as you called him obviously has never eaten good homecooked meals that are delicious and way in front of most fancy restaurant and takeaway food. I've had my fair share of fancy meals and can honestly say there are very few that I would swap for what I make at home. Only good thing about eating out in my opinion is that someone else is doing the work. We have a very wealthy friend, who has travelled the world and had dinner at our place one night. Said our food was far nicer than anything he'd eaten in restaurants. Keep up the good work, now I'm off to make some sausage rolls😊

[@Nelsiemum]

You teach practical ways and common sense that so many don’t have anymore. You have no reason to justify who you are Stacy, you rock!

[@kieranmcgrath8740]

I always add rolled oats to hamburger patties. Adds fibre and makes the meat go further, usually goes completely unnoticed by my fussy eaters. Thanks for your generosity through your channel.

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

LOVE this tip, thank you for sharing

[@lulububs]

Or bread crumb. Them and oats soak up the fats and flavors making the patties yummy and less likely to go tough or dry. Makes sense

[@InGODitrust5and2]

@@kieranmcgrath8740 and meatloaf too. I cook for the elderly and my meatloaf always has some rolled oats added.

[@victoriagamage5865]

Literally this morning I just shopped from my own pantry for my family. I learnt from my mother from a young age to always have surplus food in the house that has long shelf storage. I have flour, sugar, tea bags, pastas, fruit tins, rice, snacks and treats, loo paper, toiletries, candles and more. Not in ridiculous amounts but enough to last a week + for my family of 4 if need be. It doesn't take a lot, just spend an extra $5 per week and you get a huge stash as back up pretty quickly! I also grow vegetables, have fruit trees small ones down my driveway. We are a family of 4 and food is getting seriously expensive. So i have preserved food in the cupboard and freezer like bread, stewed apples, homemade tomato sauces or homemade pasta sauce, homemade chutneys, homemade pies and meals etc Not everyone can have a deep chest freezer or the space to preserve food but any small amount you can do can really help in tough times.

[@RomaniKiwi]

I hope this man will never have to find out the hard way, how truly blessed he is... My mum and grandparents survived WW2 and KNEW they were the lucky ones! Your circumstances can change in a heartbeat, even without a full-scale war or natural disaster... You can get sick or lose your job and have to fall back on government assistance. My pantry took a year to build up, but can feed my family for a year if necessary. Something that came in handy when Corona hit! We're still eating at last year's food prices, and I find it's easy to be generous when you've got everything you need.

[@gingerbug9927]

I buy 3 points, if you buy, flour, pasta, dry beans almost everything once you get home put it in the freezer leave it for 2 day’s take it out 2 days put back in 2 days, kills everything in it then put it in jars and canister seal with the vacuum sealer if you have one, just don’t freeze sugar or salt, once you vacuum it will last for years unless it comes unsealed.,chips, cereal. When buying toilet paper check the square feet go with the more, you will be surprised which the bigger bargain is. Don’t let people get you upset Stacy they are everywhere, you do you, i think you are terrific in what you do for your family thank you for all your tips ❤

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

Thank you for sharing your awesome tips :)

[@8888alouette888]

Freezing make every bacteria, including nasty ones, dormant. Freezing > defrosting > refreeze and defrosting again fresh food like meat will make you sick as....no way you kill bacteria bu freezing!

[@deborahmulliss6554]

Thank you Stacy, I recently made a Bulk batch of baked beans with added shredded bacon hock (the bacon hock was on special). The real motivation was the canned beans are now incredibly sweet, so much added sugar. As there two of us I freeze either by the cup full or in the case of silverbeet by the quarter cup so handy for adding to dishes.

[@MichelleDavis-n7p]

Thank you for sharing your life experiences as well as your recipes and ideas. You had me choking up a couple of times just remembering my own experiences with raising 6 children on my own.

[@staffylover1950]

I like to make trail mixes with dried fruit and pumpkin, sunflower seeds and walnuts, almonds etc. Rolled oats, porridge in winter, brown sugar and cream. I also put oats in my soaps as my daughter has eczema shes an adult now and I still make my gentle goats milk and oat soaps for her. I've always checked my receipts there and then. Great video. Thanks.

[@shirleymccoombes9153]

Defiantly ignore the snobs, I am educated but there is different types of education. I am a shift worker and love your recipes and cook extra to freeze so my family can have a wholesome meal even when I am at work. Keep up the good work as I feel you help many families in every day living as well as in hard times. Love your channel.

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

Thanks so much for your kind words, it means a lot to me :)

[@sallyllewellyn361]

Great video, Stacey. Exactly ,most of us have worked ,2 jobs in my case,and brought up families with very little funds.Mince,chicken and veggies were my staples and adding baked beans to making dishes go further..No convenience foods and definitely no takeaways as we just couldn't afford them.❤

[@sandrajohns58]

Hi Stacey partner and I went away for Labour weekend in our motorhome and I took my vacuum sealed jar of your scone recipe mix. We were freedom camping off grid so had no oven so I cooked them on the stove in my Bessemer pan lid on, vent closed on a medium low heat 10 mins one side flipped then another 10 mins on the other side and they were the best scones I have ever made so thank you soooo much ❤

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

Ohhh this comment makes my heart sing! I love you did that :-)

[@carolinereynolds2032]

Having a budget is not just the province of poor people. Governments, councils, businesses and organisations all have budgets. It's just how the world works. Being more careful with my budget makes me explore different recipes which now includes lentils, seeds and beans. A more healthy diet and still delicious. You go Stacey, I bet your "gentleman " hasn't been interviewed on radio and the print media or have a loyal and supportive following.🥀

[@betsymeyers1976]

One never knows what is around the corner. It is always wise to be able to survive when the bottom falls out of your income. Last year this time, my husband and I, although beyond retirement age, were still working full time. Now he has terminal cancer and I am his caregiver. So I say to that narrow minded big mouthed gentleman, think before you spout off! I love your channel and am fortunate to have had a mother who was also frugal.

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

So sorry to hear about your husband. Take care of yourselves, I am sending you both much love XX

[@JennySanderson-st7kv]

We both have degrees and post grad qualifications, we lived and still do on a strict budget, idea was to save for retirement When disaster with my husband health hit causing his having to leave work in his 50s, The retirement pot has had to reach much further, I had to work up to 75 the skills and discipline stands us in good stead. I grow veg, keep chickens for eggs, buy in bulk when possible (no bulk shops available near us.) I have 3 freezers, and a full preserving cupboard. I have learnt a lot from you, your lifestyle matches ours better than most You tubers Thank you and don't worry about others you are really helping a lot of us

[@Llerrafy55]

Great tips Stacey, and like you I wish I had known then when my children were little what I know now. Anybody living on a pension in these hard times must stick to a budget.🌏👍

[@goodandgreen]

You bring much needed humble competency to this platform! I love your approach to budgets and food, animals and family ❤

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

I appreciate your kind words, it’s nice to hear that you are enjoying the videos :-)

[@MaurenEckersley]

Oh my God, congratulations on making it on a magazine cover that’s fantastic

[@judithrowe8065]

I do love your videos! Your budget recipes are all very high quality meals- I'd pay a lot for your home cured bacon and the venison in your freezer. Oats are wonderful in cookies and Irish soda bread. Best of all, blend oats into fruit smoothies- very filling, and good for children, and adults with small appetites.

[@izzysmith1851]

Oh that was exciting for you being in a mag. Well deserved😁😁😁

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

Thank you :)

[@Arkansasflamingo]

Yay, congrats on the magazine article. Wish it was published in the US!!!

[@ajc4050]

Absolutely, her tips are spot on. Been living this way for many years. It all helps. Take her advice. Love your channel, thanks.

[@fishfootface]

Ignore that rude man. You are helping so many people who are struggling to make ends meet in these difficult times. ❤

[@dorothycameron7398]

Hi Stacey hope the knees ease up soon. This is not s food hack but a money saving one. I found that when I was working every time I was given a raise, instead of just letting it blend into to what i was using, I looked at could I still manage on what I was using money wise, if the answer was yes, then I banked the difference between my old pay amount & the new. It's amazing how much one can save doing this. Most people just up their standard of living when getting raises.

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

This is a FANTASTIC tip! Thank you for sharing it with us :)

[@Sharon-bo2se]

I did something similar when working. Squirreled away the extra into my portfolio, continued to do without the extras that eat up the cash. Of course, had occasional things to enjoy so I was not deprived. Lost my job 2 days short of 60 then had a bunch of serious health issues and depression. Came close to having to sell my home but scraped by. I've cut back on some things, but now am quite solid financially. I budget for most things but need to fine tune in certain areas like food. Have returned to what I grew up with: buy less, buy better quality, mend and make do. I enjoy and admire Stacey's solid sense and humour which helps encourage people like me.❤❤

[@karennewberry4694]

2 minute noodles are my go to meal when i cant be bothered cooking. Add frozen or canned corn, peas, some 4 bean mix / chickpeas/ kidney beans and a handful of leafy greens, topped with mixed ground nuts.

[@verabotha2100]

Stacy I really appreciate your videos. We eat mixed vegetable soup every night and I only make the soup twice a month. I've also got knee problems and I can't stand for long periods. I cook stew once a month. I cook a curry beef or lamb once a month. I cook "sugo" (Italian meat sauce) I think you call it red mince sauce. I also cook spinach and pack away. What ever else I cook for the day, one extra goes in the freezer. Your a lady after my own heart. I've learnt a lot from you. 😢I've still got to learn this " budget" thing😢

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

Wow, what amazing meals you are cooking, Yumm!

[@artlovermcg7564]

Stacey you rock!! You're a gem, don't let the snobs get you down. We all love. Your tip are very practical and your recipes are great!

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

Aw, thanks so much for your support. It means a lot!

[@bhanani5480]

Hey Stace, funny how some Negative Ninnies miss the message - those fullas can just mind their beeswax aye. But since watching your videos, they have motivated me to cook more often and cook from scatch as well, which means FINALLY sorting out my pantry and organising/stocking up on ingredients and cutting down on packet/processed foods (better for the pocket and also the body). Sorry to hear about your accident, but it's good that you had a safe way to fall. Rest up and take it easy, better that you recovery properly even if you have to take your time, rather than forcing yourself to get better and end up being worse off than before. Thanks for these good tips too!

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

Thanks, it's always good to hear that people are making positive changes that are helping them save. ❤️

[@SharonCowcher]

Hi Stacey your food is great, don’t worry about some people. What you are doing is making decent food and it makes good sense to budget. Not everybody can afford a great education and a lot of people have learning disabilities so some people shouldn’t be so ignorant. Home made food is the best and cooking at home takes a lot of effort and love

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

Thank you so much, I really appreciate that. ❤️

[@SueMckay-xd8sm]

Your recipes are top knotch ! They are reasonably priced but the outcome is fantastic. They are very nutritious , very tasty, and practical for any family. Thank you Stacy for your excellent videos .😊

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

Thank you, I am so glad you are enjoying the recipes and finding them useful 😊

[@annesamuel7096]

I have an education and always worked hard. Life happens, injury, illness, an earthquake, life can go t... up very quickly. I went from comfortable with savings to scrabbling for enough to buy a pint of milk within a few years. Your gentleman should count his blessings, nothing is guaranteed now matter how well you save and plan. Keep going I made a tuna casserole at the weekend!

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

I hope you liked it :)

[@joannewall5499]

Yep I fell broke wrist by trying to break the fall, but then that was the least of my worries as also ended up with broken hip and leg, never thought I’d be having a false hip in my thirties

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

Oh my gosh, I am so sorry to hear this. That is so terrible for you at such a young age. I do hope you are healing well X

[@joannewall5499]

@ thank you, I’m good now xxx

[@donnawilson1495]

I love your channel. You wholesome and true life attitude is so relatable to us average run of the mill home cooks. Flaws and all. I have to say the most memorable moment has to be the fork in the oven door. 😅 that made me laugh because it reminded me of an old oven i had. Stay true to yourself and keep up the great content.

[@nessiemonstercrafts]

I agree 100% about needing cash still. As you experienced after the storm, being without power means you can't access your money. I experienced the same in the Christchurch earthquakes, friends kept offering to put money in my account thinking they would be helping me but they couldn't grasp that without electricity I couldn't access the money. I had plenty of money...in the bank. But my part of town was without power for weeks, so you can imagine how hard that made it to get fuel or food etc. Now we make sure we always have access to cash just in case. Have you come across any businesses yet that won't accept cash anymore? There are a couple that try it down here in the deep south. I can't imagine that's legal at all, surely?

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

I feel so much for those who were caught in the Christchurch earthquakes, and then unable to access their money. Makes you realise how essential it is to have cash on hand in so many other ways. I have seen a few up here in the north as well.

[@carlasworld8571]

I live in the states and agree with all your suggestions. I've been doing most of them for years, and just started doing the mixes, and making freezer meals, and I've been buying in bulk and scanning the store sales ads for things that are buy one , get one free or things that the price drops, It really saves so much money. Ignore the negativity of others, let them pay full price. I love bargain shopping and saving, it really irks me to pay full price for anything.🤣🤣🤣🤣 I like your content.

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts, bargain shopping is my jam too! 😂

[@zooperdooper4223]

Hi from Oz. I'm so happy I found your channel because most of what we see on UT is from the US. I guess you would have , what they call, a "Prepper Pantry" which inevitably leads to firearm talk. You are now my "go to" for food security and frugality. Thank you soooo much. Good luck with the knees.

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

Thank you so much, I’m so glad you're enjoying the videos. 😊

[@lisashawcross5225]

Your amazing and fantastic helping 😂millions of people who have to stick to a food budget. Great ideas. That means man will struggle at some point in his life. Not every job is secure. He will end up eating instant noodles one day. Your amazing keep going❤

[@BareGrillz]

My hacks come from my Mum, Post War Living.. Dripping and Vegemite Toast, Bread and Butter Pudding...etc Cheap as Chips ingredients.. Well Chips were once cheap, I bought a bag of hot chips for $10.. It fed me but left me still hungry, I mean it is Potatoes why so expensive?? lol Sorry for going off, Ciao Stacey great as usual..

[@karennewberry4694]

Always double check your receipt especially if you have a younger or new to the job cashier. Sometimes they arent familiar with the various fruits and vegetables and substitute the more expensive item. Ive had that happen with apples and Jerusalem artichokes confused with ginger.

[@gypsysummer4008]

Hi Stacey What i do, is have a base shopping list permnantly in both Paknsav and Woolworth so I can go in and see if anything I usually buy is on special. This saves having to scroll through all the specials looking for mt stuff. Once done saves me hours every week.🙂

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

That is a great tip for those who are online shopping. :) Thanks for sharing with us

[@gypsysummer4008]

@@FarmersWifeHomestead I actually go and physically shop lol, but use it to get my list ready. The online is left over from that time we won't mention and when i couldn't drive when I broke my thumb in a fall, I would so have wished I knew that hint you just gave when falling, but I blacked out.

[@vanessaneal2758]

I saw that fella's comments on the herald facebook feed. He had to just be trolling to amuse himself. I can't believe anyone would be that much of a turd on the day-to-day. I went out to the op shop and paid 50c for a second wallet to take shopping just with cash. It has the store cards in (though so does my phone). All i need to do is move my licence over. I don't always do it, because I'm not perfect either, but using cash really does help! I batch cook like a boss. If I'm baking 1 cake, I'm baking 4 or 6 in the oven at once, and freezing them. It takes no longer, except for the wrapping and putting away part. Youre so right with the benefits of having staples stocked up! Last week was my son's birthday, and I meant to make lollie cake (as ya do). I thought i had a can of sweetened condensed milk in the pantry, but it turned out i didn't. But not to worry... i had milk powder, sugar, and butter so i just made the condensed milk from scratch, and carried on! Have a fab day, Stacey ❤

[@shirleymccoombes9153]

I hear you about cash I take out a certain amount every two weeks and when that is gone to bad I have to wait plus I only go groceries every month thanks heaps for the tips.

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

I’m with you, that’s how I like to do it. Thanks for watching :)

[@Kay-tm2ew]

Could you please do another under $100 shop please 🙏🏻. I loved the last one. God bless you and your family ❤

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

Thanks, I will try to do another one soon 😄 It has been on my list for months but its just been so busy around here. So definitely keep an eye out for it.

[@Kay-tm2ew]

@@FarmersWifeHomestead thank you! Can’t wait 😁. Where do you shop for bulk items?

[@gailmcdonald1946]

CONGRATULATIONS 🎉on the magazine article Stacey, your famous 🙌 ,❤ also lovely to see husbands face, you guys are a sweet couple, In regards to the A....Hole (gentleman) ,people are nasty when they're not happy with their own lives, and he is very uneducated in the social manners department...., don't let him upset you sweety, focus on all the love ❤

[@JesusistheOnlyWay222]

U r such a good mum ❤😊🎉 and grandmother to be!

[@janinemcewan6970]

I pay my bills weekly so at the end of the month I dont have a big utility bill coming in...the hard thing for me is I dont do my own shopping...I have a care giver that shops for me...we do discuss what to buy at length though. I LOVE YOUR VIDEOS STACEY.F..K THE HATERS

[@jennifox287]

Thanks Stacey, love your videos. I agree with so much of this one we had poor months when a big bill came and my kids knew that meant we lived out of the freezer and pantry. These days I buy meat on special and bulk it out to do at least another meal using lots of vege and legumes. Thanks also for being a great mum in supporting your girls :)

[@frugalitystartsathome4889]

I’m with you - build up a pantry, plan-plan-plan, and convenience definitely costs. I don’t think people have any clue about things like the gases they pump into bags of ready-prepared salad and veg in order to keep them looking fresh (when they’re actually anything but), otherwise they wouldn’t be paying these premium prices because apparently “my time is valuable”. A pantry is your friend in good times and bad, and once you have one you see the value of true convenience, which is being able to easily produce a meal to feed your family well rather than relying on manufactured so-called food.

[@amalyseful]

Also would like to say. I checked a receipt at home from pak n save and had been double charged something. I messaged them on Facebook and they happily refunded it. So big ups for pak n save for that!

[@lynettetehuia5021]

Fabulous Stacey

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

Thank you :)

[@amalyseful]

What a "gentleman", every person sets a budget. Both myself and my husband are "well educated" and def have a budget. I am loving making my own muesli bars currently. They work out maybe the same cost wise, but they are far more filling and nutritious than the processed stuff. Keep the videos coming. I found flour is just best to grab from pak n save for us yet in small bags. Some stuff is bulk and cheaper, I always buy a full eye fillet from Gilmores as it's soooo much cheaper than at the supermarket.

[@utilityjane]

Great video Stacy, I’m from the same era as you living in Central Victoria Australia. Just started a channel, cooking and growing food on a budget. You are inspiring 💚

[@lizzy9975]

Just subscribed.

[@utilityjane]

@ oh Thank you and Welcome 💚

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

Thank you, I'm so glad you enjoyed the video and I'll be sure to check out your channel.

[@michellepaino9650]

congratulations on your resourcefulness your resilience and positive approach …. and your cooking 😋💞

[@advancedloiterer1820]

Hubby and I have food allergies. He is gluten intolerant and I am lactose intolerant. I have learnt to make oat flour from blending rolled oats and using it with a budget gluten-free flour for my husband's baked goods, including his bread. The internet is a world of finding just the right budget friendly recipe when a luxury item feels like it has doubled its price recently. For example, I found a dark chocolate based 'hot chocolate mix' recipe and it was so simple to make in a blender. It is truly more delicious than purchased mixes; and it's half the price for the same quantity. I have been making my own curry powder, sauces, etc for years so I don't ignite an allergic reaction within my family. Budgeting and being savvy with your food purchases is just common sense, especially if you live in the land down under. In fact, we spent $4 on fruit and veg this week, because we had more nutritious, organic vegetables ready to pick from our veggie plots. Menu planning, is another way that we don't fall for unwanted food extras that find their way into a grocery trolley, or, end their life as food wastage. We do a monthly menu for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. Our rubbish bin is near empty most weeks, decreasing our contribution to land fill and their methane emissions; unlike restaurants and cafes that need bio-digesters that are being built in our small regional town to accommodate hospitality food outlets' wastage. Anyway, I also buy appliances that do more than one feature, e.g. my food dehydrator also assists with bread rising during our snowy winter days, as well as, dehydrating yummy home grown fruit from our small orchard during summer and autumn. Stacey, a great video and congrats re making the pages of NZ Woman's Weekly.

[@brendadodd1075]

Congratuation on the Magazine interview! That is awesome

[@nz-nz]

You tell it Stacey 🙌🙌 A tip I’m adamant about is to DATE EVERYTHING!!! I also put any new grain/nut/flour purchases into the freezer for 10days. Doing this has completely stopped weevils. I invested in food-safe plastic buckets to store my flours in. ALWAYS shop by unit price… it’s amazing how “they” try to trick consumers.

[@thecraftykiwi8756]

Yes you are right. Last year our supermarket was selling tomatoes at $10 per tray. They looked good. In the fine print it said. $31 per kg. I couldn’t believe it. People were just picking them up, when the loose ones were in a bin next to them at a fraction of the price .

[@nz-nz]

@ Emphasis on the words FINE PRINT!!!!! It’s law to have to supply the unit price, but often it’s either in very small print or obscured by the “frame” of the label holder!!!!! I pull the label out and read it, or, for top shelving, I take a photo on my phone and enlarge it YES! I go to that extent because I’m not playing THEIR game!

[@hollyduggan8139]

One of my close friends has the same attitude as the "gentleman" you spoke of Stace. She grew up in a family that didn't have much, she always wanted to have a job that would allow her to buy anything she wanted to eat or wear. She achieved that goal, has no interest in making savings shopping for food or clothes and looks down on poor people food like bulk sausages. I think sometimes she is ashamed deep down about her poor family beginnings and gets triggered like this man you mentioned with words like "budgeting" or "saving". Thanks Stace 💐

[@wendylittleh3209]

Hi Stacy, great video, That GENTLEMAN as you so kindly call him, properly has never had a wholesome home cooked meal, some people are not happy unless they a having jabs at other people and for me that shows their short comings. That higher education did not teach him good manners and how this world is made up of so many different and interesting people regardless of their education. Some people have higher education in school / uni setting and some people have life experience / education and work just as hard or harder. Congrats on the article’s and the pending additions to your family. Sorry I have not been on for a while friend that a care for was very ill in hospital, but getting back on track now. ❤

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

Thank you for your kind words and support. I'm so glad your friend is better now. I am sure she has been so grateful for you.

[@pamelataylor3537]

Ignore the haters. I always think they are jealous of the person they are being nasty about. I love your videos and so does everyone else otherwise we wouldn’t be watching them. I enjoy your recipes too. I also enjoyed this video very much Stacey, so thank you, your videos and recipes are appreciated greatly.

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

Thank you so much!

[@dubravkabelogrlicdubravka]

As always your videos are so helpful and they rightly deserve more subscribers. Times are difficult and food is expansive even if you are above minimum wage.Zero waste is also good for environment and growing your own , big or small is also helpful for our environment. So its all win win. Thank you taking us on your journey. Cheers

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

Thank you so much :)

[@caroledavis1661]

Sure wish I was your neighbor. I cook like you do. About the same age. We could have so much fun. Love your personality. From San Antonio Texas ​@@FarmersWifeHomestead

[@lizzy9975]

The number one money saver I've gotten from you, Acre Homestead and Mandy in the Making, is batch cooking. I live alone, but cooking meals in batches is a huge money saver. Or, at the very least, cooking sides and having them ready to go; so there's only a protein to cook for that meal. That man's a troll. He'll be someone we're going to be supporting in his old age, via government handouts because he spent everything he earnt instead of saving for his old age.

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

I'm so glad you find batch cooking helpful, it definitely makes life so much easier. I love having a big pot of something delicious in the freezer ready to go!

[@loveacrook]

Love all your recipes. Glad to see you are doing well. Really enjoy your youtube channel.

[@noelpaintonsmith8091]

Awesome! Congratulations on your article. Also, thanks for the info, too!

[@Sacredsimplicitylife]

Such a great video Stacey, thank you for all your tips. Also, I love books too! 📚

[@lorrainerichardson3280]

If you are new to watching the channel, flip back and watch from the beginning. Yes it takes a while to have a staples pantry but once you have one you will never be hungry and once you get some good recipes in a file/book you will have great easy to make meals. I can't remember if there is a video of the most useful staples. Lol Stacey I'm going to clean out my cans of food as every time I go into the tinned food shelf I have to shift tomatoes to find anything else. Hope the knee pain goes away quickly. Take care.

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

Hello, and thanks for your comment. Yes, there is a Staple Pantry list video. I forgot to list it in the description so I will go do that now. It comes with a free printable to make your own list as well.

[@natalie3v16]

Thank you for these great tips!! Definitely going to make a pantry staples list. Yes please for a granola recipe! When you first picked up that jar of your granola I was thinking it looked so delicious and would love to see how you make it! 😀

[@chrisnuttle7362]

Love your show. I’m new to making things from scratch. I’m from states and retired and coming into this kinda late but now that I have more time am enjoying this new adventure Thanks for allowing me to go on this journey with you

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

I’m so glad you are enjoying the journey! I am always learning too.

[@GlenisRetiredNZ]

That was interesting. I basically do everything you talk about. I built up a store cupboard during covid, not as extensive as yours and no access to bulk supplies like Gilmours. I only have a few specialty things I'll pay full price for everything else is on special or I'll cook something else. I have backups of backups so I rarely run out. I think doing it this way is a consistent 30% saving.

[@virginialochowicz8560]

Thanks Stacey, really enjoyed your tips and suggestions. Also agree about cash, somehow I enjoy & control my spending more. I’ve started making granola too; using ground flaxseed, mashed banana & almond butter to mix/stick the rest. Yum! Take care and rest your knee a bit ☕️

[@rrichards1210]

I definitely find online supermarket shopping cheaper and easier. We only have 1 supermarket in our town so that reduces choice. But by doing click and collect I can check my cupboards so I don't buy stuff I already have, remove items if going over budget, add to the order if I remember something later rather than having to make a special trip for it and still shop for specials. I do find that not everything is on the website but it is improving and you have to check the invoice carefully, but errors can be fixed with an email or phone call. But I do miss out on the marked down items. When I did instore shopping some weeks ago I struck gold. Salmon fillets were marked down to $4 a tray. The original prices were $14, $15 and $24!

[@heidibear44]

Yes! Cash all the way. We live in rural Africa not a card service for kilometres 😂 So sorry about your fall, but thank you for still making another amazing video.

[@mandyburns-iy7lx]

You're an on to it woman and a fantastic wife and mother Stacey.🥰

[@sewknitcreateandrepeat]

Stacy ! Yay, I’ve become addicted to your videos 😅 Oh that man that made the comments made me so mad. The whole way through this I was still steaming. I cannot repeat on here what I wanted to say hahaha. I’m at a time in my life where I don’t have kids at home, and I’m earning the most I ever have… but that doesn’t stop me from wanting to save my hard earned money. I hate waste, and if I can learn more tips to combat that, the better. Also, from scratch is not only cheaper… but you know what’s in your kai! When you were talking about freezer meals, what can to mind is the saying “ current me is thanking past me “ , I live when I spend that time in the past so in the present I can save time and spend it doing other things.. Love ya to bits and I’m so excited that you are in the magazine. I’m going to try and buy one for the first time in many many years 😂

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

Oh, thanks a heap hun. The magazine issue was last week so it won't be in the shops now. I will link in a community post the online one though. Thanks for being here my friend :-)

[@coastalfarmhouse1820]

That’s incredible about your article! Wow. Congratulations!

[@Anzdre18]

Love farmers wife homestead!!!! You have helped so much

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

Thank you so much, I'm glad the videos are helpful!

[@vicki2526]

Totally agree with the "checking your receipts" before you leave the grocery store. Been ripped off so many times. I would hate to guess how much "extra" money they make off us customers from incorrect pricing here in NZ.

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

I always do the same. It's pretty shocking isn't it!

[@pocketpet8832]

Hi Stacey 👋, I'm relatively new to your channel, thanks for sharing. Love your no fluff straight forward attitude, don't change for anything, especially for those who have no idea what they are talking about. Love your recipes and how you explain things even the little things which we know are the big things when it comes to getting a recipe right or making the job easier. I noticed you use resealable bags. Is this just for convenience or do you reuse them 🤔?. I'm thinking of buying a vacuum sealer machine 🤔?, do you have any advice or opinion on those?. Looking forward to seeing your next video, oh and I get the medication brain too lol 😂. Take care

[@debbiehalliday9411]

Good on you Stace! I love your channel! I’m so proud of the new idea article ❤️ good on you! And yes I’d love to see the granola xo

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

Thank you so much for your support! I'm so glad you liked the article 😊

[@kingcat3477]

Great video, with you all the way. esprcially with the cash.

[@Eshalya]

Thanks for all your tips Stacey, always love your videos especially the little rambles. Our household has always budgeted through good and bad times. It's just a no brainer habit that has served us well. Thanks to you I'm now baking my own bread and pizza dough. Much better than the store since we have egg and milk allergies in the house. Keep it up andIi'm looking forward to Kiwi Christmas baking. Love from Canada

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

Thanks so much. I am thoroughly looking forward to Christmas videos as well :)

[@juliebird5307]

Hi Stacy, it’s so nice to hear some basic saving plans. One thing I would suggest is to make a weekly menu plan so when you shop you know exactly what products you need to buy, helps prevent that impulse buying.

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

I totally agree, it’s definitely a good way to stay on track!

[@miriama200]

I love you tips and tricks on how to save money on groceries and cook darn tasty food ❤

[@bunnobear]

Yes so helpful thank you, I have worked out for me I do click and collect on everything but fruit, veg and meat. I prefer to pick out my own and that way I limit my spending, I am a sucker for the marketing in the supermarkets. I also buy 3 of things, usually only for tins but will apply that to more things in my pantry ❤

[@sharynb2225]

Congrats, well done! Mind you, it absolutely looks like you’ve worked for where you are. Absolute inspiration. I’ve watched your vids before, thoroughly enjoyed this vid. Good for you. 🌼👏👋👍☺️🌼

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

Appreciate the kind words 😊

[@staceyhall1467]

You always inspire me. Looking gorgeous in the pink shirt as well. Thank you!

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

Thanks so much, I love wearing pink now :)

[@adamfreeman5609]

Thank you very much aunty, your advice and words of experience are priceless. God bless you

[@peliloupelilou5147]

❤ another very informative vid 😊 ignore any negative comments, you're awesome 😊😊❤

[@LxloveGOD]

Hi, I had a look and didn't see the recipe on museli or cranalo bars all using oats. Is there any chance of posting those recipes? Thanks

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

I haven't posted the video yet, I filmed it today so that will be the next one posted :-)

[@cherylellem870]

Your recipes are always great, I haven't disliked anything I have made from your recipes, I wish I could just put things together as well as you, the only thing I haven't been able to master is your bread recipe but I will keep trying. Love ALLLL your videos.Ignore the knockers they need to get a life.

[@Tracy298.]

Another great upload😊

[@JesusistheOnlyWay222]

I cut my dishwasher tabs I half as we have a two drawer dishwasher

[@Maggie-May22]

Hi Stacey, awesome tips! Not sure if you have shared it yet and I've missed it, forgive me if I have. I'd love to see a video to know how you make your granola and muesli bars

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

Filming it in a few minutes, so keep an eye out for it :-)

[@tinabonilla8902]

Dear Stacy, congratulations on your article.🎉 I was working on my food budgeting and stopped to eat lunch. I decided to watch videos while I ate and saw that I had a notification from your channel that a new video was out. I began watching it and found out you make your own granola and muesli bars something that I'm trying to start doing because I am diabetic. As I was looking at the granola and muesli bars I was flabbergasted by all the sugar in it. Do you have a link for your granola muesli bars video thank you so much I appreciate it and you too. Love from the USA ❤

[@FarmersWifeHomestead]

Thanks, I’m glad you enjoyed the video. My granola bar recipe is coming soon, I only use natural sugars in it like maple syrup and honey but of course, you can change it to suit your needs :)