95% of People DON'T Grocery Shop like THIS | STOP Overspending in 2025 (January Pantry Chat)

Look-I don’t grocery shop like everyone else and everyone else doesn’t save as much as I do nor do they eat as well. Why? Because I’ve hacked seasonal eating, sale cycles and shelf cooking and you an too. Even as grocery prices rise there are plenty of ways to feed your family healthy, delicious and even organic meals on a budget. Like me, you’re probably desperately looking for ways to stock your pantry with REAL food, that isn't boxed, full of preservatives, tons of salt, sugar or other questionable ingredients? Over the past ten years I've learned how to build a pantry in record time with the healthiest foods out there (fruits, vegetables, meats and ferments) at a fraction of the cost using just the grocery store. In this video I'll share ways to create delicious meals that are fully cooked and ready to go to become anything you need them to be. Learn how to use a more efficient, healthy and preservation based kitchen by learning timeless methods that worked over 100 years ago (and continue to be even just as valuable, if not more, now).
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Visit my blog: www.becomingafarmgirl.com
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Thank you all so much for believing in my farm dream and this channel. Don’t underestimate how much JOY you bring me and my family. I love becoming a farm girl alongside you!
FYI: This video may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission for purchases made through my links at no cost to you. THIS VIDEO IS NOT SPONSORED

[@BecomingaFarmGirl]

January's Grocery Guide will be emailed Friday, January 10th by 10 AM! Sign up to get my FREE Pantry Chat Grocery Guide Newsletter Here: tinyurl.com/4nadvnrd.

[@YaYas_simple_living]

Did you send the grocery list this month? I didn’t get mine. I’m looking for the recipe for the hummus.

[@charlottewilkerson]

I keep getting the links in your emails but I still cannot open them. I appreciate you & love your content but its super frustrating

[@trevawinslow]

I’d love the grocery list but the link goes to canning info. Can’t find the list on your site

[@pennyclayton9348]

It had canning as an article. Is that correct

[@ConstanceRamos-jf6bu]

I just signed up for the email. Hope to get this months

[@malcolmbutler801]

Did my first after Christmas sale when I was 10. My Dad told me he couldn't buy my Christmas presents because he wouldn't get paid till the day after Christmas. I was so sad!! So the day after Christmas we went to Kmart (I'm so old) and everything was either 50% or 75 % off!! I told my mom and dad that we would always go Christmas shopping the day after Christmas!! I had so many toys!! Everyone was hating on me!! I still feel joy in my heart for the day after Christmas!!! Stay happy and spread joy!!

[@mmc9828]

You were a smart kid! 😁

[@BecomingaFarmGirl]

Now THIS is wisdom and yes, my folks did the same thing. My brother and I took our Christmas money and went after the holiday to get clothes, etc. Our friends weren’t the wiser. Plus, while everyone is in the return lines after Christmas, you’re happily purchasing. Not being beholden to consumer shopping dates is a juice way to avoid budget busting. I love this comment!

[@gingerfellah5665]

What a lovely story, I can just imagine your sad little boy face be transformed into joy. You really enjoyed that Christmas your own special way

[@marilynherron2582]

I did this with my kids growing up, I always gave them a choice Christmas or after Christmas, it was always after they learned early about sales, they always got more....❤❤❤

[@michellewilliams99]

We started doing after Christmas when my children were teenagers and understood. Now it's our Christmas tradition and they still love hearing how many good deals I got. Well my son doesn't care lol

[@libbyjensen1858]

When I was growing up (I'm 64), home economics was required and those classes went into detail like you do on your channel. My children's classes were NOTHING like mine were. Channels like yours are so very important: you are teaching home economics 101, 102, 103 and 104!! EXCELLENT job!! I love what you're doing!!!

[@KristieEsslinger]

Yesssss! I was thinking the exact same thing you are teaching

[@sheilatorres1908]

So true. Now they teach kids to make popcorn and muffins. What a joke.

[@mmc9828]

I'm 72 and when I was in high school girls were required to take Home Ec and boys were required to take Shop. Both valuable classes that should be brought back to our schools as requirements.

[@dawncatalano7443]

Absolutely. I took home economics in 7th grade (2 semesters) and again in highschool (3 separate and different classes) that was more advanced. What is taught in these classes and what Cassandra is teaching you can take to the bank.

[@tiffanybalden5879]

Yes she’s amazing

[@amythinks]

What is this sorcery? No, not the meal ideas. I absolutely love the vibe. How you manage to entertain yet not cross over to annoying is magical. Hat's off. You're a joy to watch.

[@juliabrown5948]

Yes ma'am!

[@grannysweet]

@@amythinks 👏🏼👏👏🏾👏🏽👏🏿👏🏻✅ 😎🌈🐕‍🦺🦖🐕

[@AshleyDuel-vy8eb]

I don’t think I’ve ever hit a subscribe button so fast 😂

[@BecomingaFarmGirl]

Lol-Amy you just made me truly laugh out loud. I work full time and YT is not my job so I always approach it as how can I get my point across, without wasting your time but also share that a ‘perfected’ video is not my goal. I truly appreciate that you “get me” 😜🥰

[@jfc8254]

@@BecomingaFarmGirlthank you for not tapping your fingernails on everything as you show them to us! 😂

[@Iluvwatchutube]

Our hearts are on a $291.00 a month food stamps budget my husband and I are disabled family .. thanks for your money saving video before you we could not afford to purchase meat Peace and blessings, happy new year 🎉🎉🎉

[@softscribbles]

As a disabled person myself I know how important nutrients are. I’m so glad this creator exists for people like us. Keep safe ❤

[@patrice1966]

You are not the only one who uses their oven for storage! Here’s a frugal tip (for those that don’t have small children or pets that jump up on surfaces) who store their cast iron cookware in the oven. Let it stay in the oven as you are preheating it, then take that warmed cast iron and set it on cooling racks or hot pads on the counters and table. They will radiate the heat for hours afterwards lessening your furnace running to keep the house warm. I also leave my pizza stone in the oven and do the same thing with it. Also after you are done baking, leave the oven door propped open to radiate the stored heat out into your kitchen.

[@1ducttapeproduction]

Yes! I grew up with preheating our pizza stone AND cast iron! Everyone thinks I'm crazy, but it's not gonna do any harm

[@beutfulflwr6245]

What a great tip! Thanks for sharing this 🤩

[@patrice1966]

@@1ducttapeproduction it helps lower your energy bills and saves you a little of money doing so.

[@patrice1966]

@@beutfulflwr6245 you’re welcome, I’m glad you found it helpful.

[@BecomingaFarmGirl]

Oh Patrice, I LOVE this! The first idea you mentioned is one that I have not heard or watched anyone do and I will certainly start doing this. And yes girl, my (and now me) always let the oven door down to heat up the kitchen. Heck, its part of the reason I have a chair in my kitchen. I'll slide that chair next to the oven door and even prop my feet on it and let that warmth wrap around me. I love it!

[@chaebaker3012]

Amen, I do the same. Thanks to you. Girl, I got 40lbs of sweet potatoes for $10. I made sweet potatoes, canning them for my 8 month old grandson. I canned him butternut squash, apple sauce, apple juice, etc. We do not buy processed baby food.

[@BecomingaFarmGirl]

Hey Chae! Thank you for sharing your wonderful news with me. Isn't it a blessing when you find an awesome sale AND have the skills/equipment to be able to know how to make volume (ie your 40 lbs of sweet potatoes) work for you? Only folks with skillsets can purchase with a plan, because ordinary shoppers truly don't have a clue. What a blessing for you and your sweet baby grandson! The 'baby food' market is horrible (portions, prices and inferior ingredients) so making his own is truly the best way. Oh he is spoiled in all the right ways!!!

[@tristaperkins7112]

Are you in the Mississippi or Tennessee area? Because I got the same deal! Only I got 6 boxes, because I'm a crazy person who can't turn down a bargain, AND I haven't done anything with mine yet. I can't decide how I want to preserve them.

[@KristieEsslinger]

Great for y'all to give baby good food!

[@nah6730]

@@tristaperkins7112dehydrated sweet potato chips? 🤩

[@poollife777]

I hope you're at least trying to use organic.

[@riddleza]

First time on this channel. As someone who watches tons of farm/homestead/frugal living channels and watches everyone stumble around the kitchen as an afterthought… this girl can COOK.

[@dionnejoseph]

Gumbo tips: pre cook ur sausage n the oven . Removes some of the fat so u don’t have a layer floating on top of ur gumbo and it makes it tender n tasty. Dry out the okra n the oven to keep it from becoming thick and rope like. Add ur seafood last. Doesn’t take long to cook and if u add it in wih the other meats first it will make the texture rubbery. From a born n bred Louisiana Girl.

[@BecomingaFarmGirl]

Wait, what? I love this idea and it makes total sense! Thanks for sharing so that I and others can fold this into our cooking routines!

[@kimberlymanning5149]

yessss how do you make it thicker in consistency @dionnejoseph

[@dionnejoseph]

U could do cornstarch, more roux or don’t dry out all the okra. It naturally gets thick hence drying it n the oven. Hope that helps! :)

[@elizaC3024]

For those of us in our 60s, we learned this early on. But out of 4 of us girls raised in the same home, I am the only one who understood why food preservation is necessary for not just surviving, but thriving!! Keep teaching girl, the world needs more life instructors that teach the real stuff we need to know.

[@SoulCompassCenterElkin]

I am so happy for you that you are creating this life at your age. At 62, I can only dip into it in small ways.... love your energy and how you share your knowledge and all the work and experience you have stepped in to! Thank you.

[@redgingerbreadpam]

I grew up with pans in the oven. And yes we were trained as kids to always check the oven. If im in a rental on vacation i still open the oven before turning it 😅

[@ladybug9171]

OMG, same here! Grew up with pans in the oven and still check it no matter where I am😂😂😂

[@maryegerton6848]

I love my cast iron pans but always kept them in the oven and hated moving them around, but still did it anyway. But I got sick of it. So I went to the garage, grabbed a 2x4, cut it, painted it, grabbed some deck screws and screwed it to the wall. Then I attached some hooks to it and hung those puppies up beside the stove. Best thing ever. But I must admit, yours is way more beautiful 😉

[@BecomingaFarmGirl]

Hi Mary! It's always good to see you. My husband and dad are so worried about me putting extra holes in the paneling so this was my work around (even though ONE day I WILL a cast iron wall like you. My collection has grown from 3 pans to 7 so it made sense that the weight was just getting to me. Happy New Year!

[@maryegerton6848]

@ Happy New Year pretty girl ☮️💟

[@Mariaaziere]

I had mine below the cooktop since we had a separate oven and it was so annoying especially since I now have a big collection. My husband and i built a wall out of cedar fencing we had in the shop. We put it on a wall that wasn’t being used. I absolutely love it and it works out so well.

[@jenniferr2057]

OF COURSE I store my cast iron in the oven. OF COURSE I have forgotten to take it out preheating. OF COURSE I now need a cast iron rack I never knew existed. 🙂

[@dorothyclaygardner9788]

​@@jenniferr2057😅 of course 😅

[@badgirl44654]

Former Walmart employee here. The day after Christmas is always 50% off Christmas clearance. 2 days after is marked down to 75% off it doesn’t get marked down further unless it doesn’t sell, but usually does, so not needed. Definitely the time to buy any decorations, food, or candy. Even if it’s for treats for the family.

[@MaxsMom-bv6hf]

I used to shop and cook like you do and I really miss it. Empty nest and divorce changed everything…..BUT, it is wonderful to see my daughter now doing this.

[@dobbiejoyner8110]

Buy and prep for one or two if you have company 😊

[@suecorliss2874]

What's not to ❤️ about Cassandra. My husband and I both adore her. The way she teaches is amazing. No matter what age you are, she is helping you grow. Her whole family shines. 🎉 yes, i store my cast iron in the oven. I really like your rack. ( Thinking ) Hugs

[@blairmassey635]

I just went to the grocery store here in Sparks Nevada. I found two small hickory smoked hams at 50% off! Thank you so much for for the tip. One was $14.00 and the other was $13.00x They are now chilling in my freezer waiting to be used for soups, casseroles, breakfasts and lunches. You’re the bomb, Cas!

[@almostahomestead]

I thought I was the only one who didn't participate in pantry challenges. I shop all year round, checking weekly sales. I have found that what I score on sale far outweighs what I would save during the challenge. Also, once the stock is used, you have to spend the money to restock. Personally, I find that weekly deals give me the biggest savings.

[@BecomingaFarmGirl]

BEAUTIFULLY said, my friend. Exactly. Couldn't agree more.

[@Just-Nikki]

And a lot of them do grocery hauls to prepare for the challenge. I don’t understand how they are benefiting from the challenge.

[@sweetumsDenise]

kckat had a good tip o saw just before yours that she was told to challenge with what you have and you can still stock up on deals for the future (i.e. the hams, etc). You’ll still be able to benefit from the awesome deals 😊 i think it’s worth a thought.

[@lindasummer2343]

I’m going to defend the pantry challenge a bit. The purpose of it is not to keep from spending money but to go through your stored up food and use up anything that has been sitting around and might go bad whether it is canned food or things in your freezer that need to be cleared out. It is preparing for the new garden and harvest season so there is room for all of the fresh new things that will be coming in. If it is the Three Rivers Challenge then you make your own rules and shopping for deals and making fresh things to go on your pantry shelves can certainly be part of your personal pantry challenge. Sometimes we make batches of things that are not our favorite and they will linger if we keep bringing in new products for our pantry but if we are challenged to use them up then we put our creativity to work and get them cleared out. I love all of the creativity that Cassandra brings to her canning and preserving and I really appreciate that she shows us the wonderful ways things are used in her recipes. Thanks, Cassandra, for taking us full circle from finding the deals to preserving them and then to using them.

[@bleeka325]

Agreed. We get a heavy snow here about once a year. I use that week or so to be creative, try some new things, and use up what is in my pantry and freezer. My favorite creation was salmon biscuits with bbq and cheddar constructed as a sandwich

[@kairifan12]

I'm glad you shared that it's not solely about not spending but more so about not letting things go to waste. For people who grow a lot of their own food, including their own meat, the pantry challenge makes sense because a lot of time and resources go into that but we have a tendency to go for the more convenient things and waste the input of growing our own. There are smart ways to do the challenge, and there are wasteful ways to do the challenge. I shop more like our farm girl here, Cassandra, but I think others benefit from pantry challenges if they have the means to grow more of their own food or buy in bulk strategically. It doesn't have to be in January, either. It just makes sense for it to be for some because they're working through the food from the harvest season ❤

[@SuGilstrap]

That’s why I’m doing it! To make sure I use up all my hard work which tends to get pushed aside! Also here in Washington we are seeing prices sky rocket! Hopefully after inauguration we will see a slow down but eggs are $10 a dozen when you can find them! Seriously a great time for a pantry challenge here. Although I love this and your plan always! Just doesn’t work everywhere.

[@poollife777]

I never clear out everything in my pantry. New way there's hard times and I can't afford to use the money to store up would drive me crazy I just rotate. And it's her channel not yours.

[@poollife777]

​​@@SuGilstrapreally I got a BJ's I paid $7.89 for 24 eggs and they are organic. I always keep two packs at home plus I also freeze some and I dehydrate them.

[@leslieschmitt7749]

I loved your video and with your help I realized I needed to make a paradigm shift and go full force into shopping, prepping and cooking at home! I’m here to learn!! 😍

[@kckat96]

One of the groups I'm following for the pantry challenge says that you only eat from your pantry for the challenge but if there are good deals, sales or give away's you go do those because you are stocking up for the future not the present. That to me was an awesome idea. This way I can be part of the challenge and still get the sales/deals and specials.

[@marci.curious]

I love this channel & this young lady who is WISE BEYOND HER YEARS! THANK YOU FOR DOING EVERYTHING YOU CAN TO HELP US ALL YOU. ARE. SO. IMPRESSIVE!! But moreover you are memorable & in my opinion, loving, kind & compassionate. GOD bless you & your loved ones

[@maryglidden2943]

We live in a very small town that do not have the great specials on clearance like you are able to find so I do do the January no spend pantry challenge with my rule that if there is any great deals on food that I will use for future months (and not my challenge months) I give myself permission to buy those specials. Another great video!

[@BecomingaFarmGirl]

Absolutely Mary! The sales you'll see during January now that Thanksgiving or Christmas are over are the best you'll spot all year. You've got the right idea.

[@whitefeather572]

I am a cast iron girly! Hubby says I have a problem to which I wholeheartedly disagree! I have 11 skillets, 2 Dutch ovens, 3 loaf pans, 2 roasting pans, 2 pots and a few other dishes as well. I need every single one 😂 I agree with your opinion on a cast iron wall which is why I don’t have one. We have a saying “ keep mom’s skillets good and greasy “ Also, we love a good pot of black eyed peas, sausage and okra over rice… not a combo most would consider but absolutely delicious!

[@sweetumsDenise]

It’s you starting off your list with 11 skillets for me 😝😝😝😝

[@whitefeather572]

@ 😂

[@tracyantonioli]

I have never seen your content before. I subscribed at five minutes in. This is solid, helpful, easy to implement advice. So happy to have found this channel. Thank you!

[@lindalukasik1332]

First time viewer here. I love your show!! I am 79 and can SO relate to your cooking etc. I will be back.

[@jaybby04]

I feel seen! My family puts the cast iron pots in the oven too. My boyfriend thought it was odd at first too, now he does it. 😅 You just know to check! Lol! I just found your channel, and I'm subbing! All of your recipes look so good! My grandma and grandpa used to can also. They tried to show me, but I never learned. Looking at your video, I feel I missed out big time! 😢

[@mybelovedchaos]

Its true, January is really the time for the best deals on things you actually want. Also, I totally keep extra skillets in my oven.

[@BecomingaFarmGirl]

Amen! I just can't wrap my head around a 'no spend' in January when these are prices you might only see once or twice the entire year. In fact, spending in January keeps me from overspending and maintain a below average budget the rest of the year. Sounds like you've already got the right idea, friend!

[@rhondadavis1483]

@@BecomingaFarmGirlhi I just found you and I’m so excited! You are delightful and loved this video! I look forward to catching up! Love canning and always looking for new recipes and ideas. We all need the ways to save money and yet have things we need/want to eat! New sub and looking forward to your monthly grocery list! God bless! 🙏🏼

[@melaniewhite3300]

I'm 54, I have kept pots and pan and all my cast iron in the oven as well still do. I was taught to keep the cast iron in the oven because we lived in the south and the humidity was not a friend to my cast iron. The oven was just an extra barrier for that issue. My grandpa was a cook in the navy during ww2 and that was his most repeated advice to me from his kitchen 😊

[@jamaica5930]

Yes yes yes! I came here to say this- keeping cast iron in your oven sooo helps with rusting if you’re in humid environment.

[@melaniewhite3300]

@jamaica5930 ABSOLUTELY 💯, I now live in the high desert of Idaho and it's very dry but old habits are hard to break!!!

[@EstelleCreativeDesigns]

I asked myself why I was still looking at this video? I'm a senior who rarely cooks for others, but I want to save money and get value that's why I'm still here. I'm 23 minutes in and can't stop and I love hummus but I don't remember the last time I had some. I've NEVER stored my skillets in the oven!! Ok why did I just subscribe?

[@TransformInProgress]

I’m a 1st time viewer and have subscribed! My family have always stored pans and bakeware in the oven. The rack is beautiful but I don’t have room in my apartment for it 😅. I’ve just gotten into making bone broth in my new Instant Pot in support of my keto diet. I’ve got to purchase canning supplies. THANKS! ❤❤❤

[@ccfarmgirl5604]

LOL. I totally agree with not passing up the Can’t Beat This deals. That’s why each time I do a pantry challenge, one of my “rules” is that my meal prep comes strictly out of the pantry/freezer. Any un-passable deals (e.g. 7 for $7 deals on 5# potatoes and 3# onions) are happily purchased and preserved or set aside for use after completing the pantry challenge. Thanks again Cassandra. As always, you’re a blessing and an inspiration. ❤️, Crystal

[@dianainmichigan]

Hello.. lol .. I am watching for the first time and love your channel… I to store my pans in the oven. Just like my mom and grandmas before me did. Keep up the great work on this channel.

[@ashleyedvalson6048]

I think the no shopping in January is really great for those who have homesteads and farms that can provide all these things, this way the meat and veggies they jar up, freeze, or dehydrate don’t go to waste, but for everyone else it’s harder! I don’t have the property to be able to have my own animals to source from, but I can have a garden. However, my garden isn’t big enough to grow all that I need for a year’s supply, especially for grains, so I still need your knowledge and help. Thank you and grateful you’re willing to teach us.

[@patriciawoodward2566]

Yes, growing up, we used the oven for storage--my mom still does. I bought that same rack, and I absolutely love it!! Just to give you a chuckle--I read the instructions wrong the first time and put it together wrong. Don't know where my mind was, but I had to laugh at myself. Blessings to you.

[@tawnaparko3388]

I am so happy that I found someone that doesn't do no spend January to be frugal. I replace a lot of stuff that aren't just seasonal. Found a wall clock, a paper shredder, and a hair dryer at very good prices. All things we were doing without but would make life easier. My freezer and pantry are both very full.

[@BecomingaFarmGirl]

You've got the right idea! January is the best time to find the things you REALLY need.

[@teresanemecek7330]

you are amazing

[@defyant1]

First time seeing your channel; I am so impressed! I have noticed so many Hollywood chefs waste so much food when cooking by tossing pieces of food away only taking the best parts. Makes me sick to see this waste. Your soups are so healthy - fresh veggies and good quality meat. For families, this site is priceless. I add bacon grease to almost all soups - for that smokey deep flavor...Do you save your bacon grease? Your hummus looks fabulous!! You are helping the next gen to see you can eat great and save money too! For $40 worth of fast food, you can make many great meals. FYI, everyone stores cast iron in oven also b/c when preheating, you heat the pans and keep them dry so your pans stay seasoned at all times - no water to rust. (they really had a reason to do this!) So enjoyed this!

[@msbuttafly112]

I always shop year round for deals. I don’t do trending pantry challenges either. I cook and bake from scratch all the time due to food intolerances, but I love being in the kitchen! As I am watching this video, I am enjoying my homemade gumbo I made for Christmas and froze the leftovers that my husband and I are eating today. I like to save the tops of bell peppers for homemade bone broth. I also keep my pots and pans in the oven as well! I am from Louisiana.

[@delilahkoonce6740]

I love making my own hummus. I’ve never thought to can it. Thanks! Great project for this weekend. Watching your videos makes my heart happy. You’re so inspiring.

[@BecomingaFarmGirl]

Hey Delilah ( I looooove that name btw). Yes, you will love canning your own hummus---girl its sooo good! Happy New Year!

[@dataodokpa5431]

I keep my cast irons in my oven, but I forget and turn it on. I forget they are in there. I feel better knowing that this was normal. I did it because after I cook with them I clean them, then season it immediately, but just leave it in there and it’s my new habit.☺️That to me is their home

[@cyndimoss426]

I stocked up on hams for 79 cents a lb. We had a winter storm over the weekend, I cooked the ham the day before the storm hit and we had ham all weekend.

[@njagatlin]

This rack is what I needed, but I could never explain what I was looking for! You are a lifesaver, Cassandra, for sharing this fantastic find. Yes, I, too, was raised to store cast iron pans in the oven and pull them out before turning the oven on. I thoroughly enjoyed this video. Thank you for sharing your wisdom, ma'am.

[@historyteacher4402]

Absolutely!!! I grab meat on sale any day or month. I got ham on sale and turkey on sale. Absolutely bought them!

[@DownSpriggLane]

Lol, I just bought this rack a couple of weeks ago and I love it! I have never heard of anyone keeping their pots in the oven but I did store mine on top of the stove! Thanks for all of your information!

[@cusebaby10]

You stumbled into my feed and I'm sooo thrilled that you did! I love your vibe, your knowledge, humor, and realism! You're so down to Earth; it's refreshing! I instantly subscribed. I feel like I was watching a lifelong friend just now. You're extremely entertaining without being annoying, over the top, or trying to act funny when you're really not. You're a true delight and it's welcomed, so thank you! I grew up on a farm in the true Upstate NY (near Canada, not Westchester, North of NYC) and my family and I ALL keep our pots & pans in the oven and broiler drawer. Not sure if it's a Country thing or a no storage issue, bc we have both, haha! Again, thank you and now I'm going to go binge more of your video's, lol! 🤗🥰

[@rachael780]

I wish I had the energy for all this. You amaze me! I will live vicariously through you.

[@rhondalaflamme462]

I love how you cover every step from plan, prep, store and shop smartly! I’m not a farm girl but I’m definitely enjoying your channel for smart DIY preservations.

[@NauticalWheelr]

You're so frugal, and are awesome at reducing waste when it comes to food. But I can't help but feel I see those same exact gifts you're showing at the thrift store either February of the upcoming year ot the year after...If everyone gifted an ornament, there's no room for the family to make memories with their own ornaments and stories... I have more tea towels than i ever want to see again, and i can't tell you how many i see when i go into the thrift store. As a millennial, I receive more ornaments than i could EVER put onto my tree... I have a 9 ft tree... and the boxes and boxes of ... what was once thoughtful gifts are now tat... most folks donate them and never think twice but think about the VOLUME of people who do that. Most of those things end up in landfills (most thrift stores cycle out /toss out housewares rather than sending them to their closeout warehouses to keep up with the demand of accepting donations)... if its plastic it ultimately ends up in our water supply... I've got SO MANY Christmas coffee mugs that my cupboards are overflowing. Check the thrift store mug rack when you go next month... its a reality check. Instead, I know you'll save even MORE MONEY and produce quality gifts by making things like bourbon vanilla extract and divvying it out in a year in thrifted bottles or jars to family (vintage 6oz coke bottles with a resealed bottlecap are extra cute! and if you do mason jars they can be returned to be filled again next year!), Homemade soap, or if you want to do the tea towel thing... hit the thrift stores... most are never used, and you can add your own personal flair by sewing/crocheting a oven hanging handle, or crochet or sew a waste band to make tea towel aprons (which are like... the adhd kids' best friend for the hand on pants wipey problem we all seem to have). You snagged some epic deals! But I know you're so thoughtful about not wasting food, reducing waste in general... that I thought i'd just remind you that these little trinkety gifts... end up being waste... sooner rather than later... Again I love what you do, and you're on it girl! I am a diehard fan and check in frequently to see what you've got for me. I make soap for a living. I'd be happy to share a recipe or teach you or help you or even send you one of my molds to get you started! Most soap when hand made comes in well under a dollar a bar, but would retail for $5-8! Alot of these things don't take long to add to or do, and yield a consumable, sustainable, high quality gift option all members of the family will enjoy... Probably more than the coffee mug or ornament... realistically. Especially that vanilla extract. The homemade stuff is GOLD such a set it and forget it thing to do. Please don't see this as hate. Just hoping i can help an aha moment click for the gifts you give with the same intention that you put into your pantry and kitchen!

[@LoydaCoulombe]

What is your monthly food budget for the 2 of you? One tip that I do in my kitchen is to use a cutting board with parchment paper and lay your meat ex; chicken . Then another layer and another.. Freeze the entire thing. Next day remove and they are now all individually frozen and not stuck together. You can then place in one or two freezer bags. not 11. Saves SO much on bags..

[@mandiclark3129]

I always wondered if anyone else shoved their pots and pans in the oven or if it was just my family. Hahaha! 😂 Although, like you I have way too many now to do that with. 😅 I've resorted to using my older cast irons and cake pans as rustic kitchen wall decor now. Still accessible if I need them, but also they can be displayed cause they're pretty. 😊

[@Votethepower]

I can testify about the clearance items. I scored four twin comforters last year for four dollars each! I saved them and gifted them to my four little nieces for Christmas along with their annual tin of holiday cookies.

[@magsstewart5488]

I do pantry challenge, but I also do exactly what you’re doing 👍 I live off of my stored food for at least January because I need make myself use up my older products. But there is NO WAY I’m going to skip Jan food sales. I process whatever I buy into storage and by Feb I have hopefully used up last years stuff and replaced it. The only “grocery shopping” I do is for pet food, fresh produce if I’m craving it, or maybe a specialty item if I’m trying something new. While doing this basic shopping, I check sales. That’s where I pick up proteins & dairy. If nothings on sale & I’m not craving salad, bag of kibble is all I walk out with, lol!

[@BecomingaFarmGirl]

I'm with you 100%. I absolutely lean on my canned pantry more during the winter, and my motto is always to plan meals with what you already have, but January boasts some of the steepest sales on the highest priced items you'll pay for all year. It would be foolish to pass it by, knowing that you'll want it in just a few months. You've got the right idea!

[@debram3098]

Self stable hummus! Game changer!!! Thank you thank you. I love watching your videos.

[@sharonhuelsman]

Wow! I have had to pause your video several times to take in all the good information! I had ground turkey sitting in my fridge that needed to be cooked (I’m not a big fan of turkey but it was on sale). I made your turkey sausage patties. I cooked them up to keep in freezer for quick snacks. They are very good!!😊

[@Erica-rj5vz]

My oven is storage as well 😂

[@magsstewart5488]

I do the oven thing. And like you, it aggravates me. I’ve seen that tower a few times and I’m thinking on it. Maybe if I succeed in clearing out a bunch of stuff I don’t use, I’ll reward myself with the tower.

[@BecomingaFarmGirl]

Hey lady! THANK YOU for sharing I'm not the only one! Truly, it only became a problem as my cast iron collection grew from 3 to 7 :). So far, so good (although I still find myself still checking the oven door even though nothings in there). It was right at 99.00 on Amazon.

[@maria_w311]

This is my first year participating in a pantry challenge. But I am still shopping for the deals to add to my storage! This month, I'm focusing on using older items. Taking note of what items we're not using as much and looking for the holes. I already see I need to can more vegetables and beans this year.

[@mlee7037]

I came in the house the other day and realized my husband had the oven on. I nearly lost it! I asked him if he took my sourdough starter out. He said what starter? He was playing with me!!!!😂 we keep all kinds of things in the oven.

[@silviamagda]

😅

[@tristaperkins7112]

Ooohhhh, what is it they say? And that's when the fight started!

[@ShanahIgriega]

Yes, we just shop smart and 100% back you on this!!! January is definitely our Golden Ticket!!!

[@grannysweet]

We had a gas oven. It made sense to store the cast iron in the oven, it kept them from ever rusting in the damp air. Your great greats didnt have electric stoves/ovens cause they didnt exist. My wood burning stove had a cabinet just for your pans ! Possibly we all started there and passed it on generationally? It was also handy when kitchens were tiny and outdoor kitchens were where the heavy cooking happened. Butchering, canning, smoking etc. As always love,love,love your content.

[@lindasummer2343]

@@grannysweet I love the history lesson, it makes perfect sense. Sometimes we keep up “tradition” without understanding why something was done in the first place (which was just a practical practice).

[@grannysweet]

@lindasummer2343 👍🏼😎🌈🐕‍🦺🦖🐕❣️👍

[@grannysweet]

@lindasummer2343 Lindasummer do you garden? I found this channel because of the green stalk and discovered it was rich in so many other areas. What parts interest you most?

[@barbaracarbone4658]

Wowee. Now that's a strategy. 🎉❤ Also, I too keep pans in the oven. Lol...my two casserole pans to be exact and 1 pizza stone. I don't have the room for them in my little bungalow. I have way less space than you. I'm constantly devising new storage space to give myself more room. I'm in the middle of a good one right now. 😂. Your cast iron rack is so nice. Looks good and does the job too. Good choice!😃

[@BecomingaFarmGirl]

I'm SO glad you shared this. Other than my family members, I haven't seen folks do this and friends will always ask me why I do this :). And yes, when you have a small space you have to be creative (and it can be done). I'm so glad this rack is working out....but now I'm tempted to buy more cast iron :) Happy New Year friend!

[@sherrytotty3873]

Great tips to savings.I love these homemade meals

[@brendachapman4559]

Great Video! Love the cast iron rack. The only thing I would do to the rack is secure it to the wall so a child couldn't bring it down on them. Much Love and Blessings

[@Adamllover]

Same here. Tiny, tiny kitchen here! Ive always had to keep my cast iron pans AND my glass 9×13's and 8×8's in my oven. Its SO annoying taking everything out to have to sit on the table every time I use the oven! 😅

[@QUEENLOLATV]

Ribs 69 percent off on Amazon fresh. Local sprmkt, can proce match.

[@CarnitaEilertson]

I love your channel! My mom cooked just like this, and I, in turn, do too. When I was first a single mom and low on funds, my kids never knew how tight things really were because of cooking like this. 65 I still cook 100 % from scratch. My adult children still request m y homemade bread, and pasta, and soups from childhood 😂 lol and the pan in the oven...yes lol. My mom always did, and I do, too 😂 I have a wall but haven't made the plunge.

[@darleneboyd7941]

One of my homesteading homies sent me a link to your channel. I've watched so many of your videos, I feel like you and I are sisters from different misters. LOL I'm a little further along in the homesteading journey but after nearing 60 years I know now it is a journey. There are things I wanted and tried for a while that now I know I don't enjoy, use or have energy for, and other things I still want to try when I get to retire. One thing I know is that you need some near by homesteading sisters and brothers. I have a good friend and we always say "if I have one you don't need to buy one". Like she has a chicken plucker, so I don't need one. I have a cabinet incubator so she doesn't need one. We can harvest chickens together and we can set eggs to hatch at the same time. If she has over planted I get the spoils and vise versa. I hunt, so she gets venison if she wants it and she has raw milk and beef. And I always have someone who is overjoyed to look in seed catalogs in January and February to plan our gardens. Keep giving your good advice. You are doing the things I've done for years. The habit of buying in season and preserving is something I've always done. This year I am trying to force myself NOT to buy but to use up some of my stores since I have been overly blessed, but it is difficult not to buy those marked down cuts when I see them. LOL I know you understand. God bless you.

[@faithfinkes2103]

Perfect timing. We had ham, then I used the bone and some leftover meat for bean soup. Now I know what to do with the fat and skin. Thank you. I hate the thought of throwing it away.

[@TheMsjagfan]

Thank you for the effort and time you have taken to give me a leg up on my year of grocery hauls, preserving and cooking. I am a southern girl and you cook like I do so I know things will be to my country cooking standards. 😊. Thank you again.

[@jennievpollard77]

My mother and grandmother also stored pots in the oven…and I do also. I have a rack for some casted irons in my kitchen; however, since my kitchen is smaller than yours, I don’t have enough room for another self.

[@tracyg4783]

I’m with you, we never stop stocking the pantry! Shop those sales, that’s paying yourself when you hedge against inflation.

[@ShiphraBorland]

I love watching videos like this and you are by far the most enjoyable! Your personality seems like SO much fun!!!

[@tallfrugallaurie1680]

I grew up in a multi-generational household. I learned a ton of preservation and old school cooking skills. I am truly greatful as my contemporaries don't seem to have the same skills. I welcome all frugal and stockpiling advice, as well as new recipes. No matter how much knowledge I compile there is always more to learn and share. Thank you for all you share❤.

[@sallycormier1383]

I got rolls of Christmas wrap for .25 cents each!! 😊 Also I’ve always stored my cast iron pans in the oven like my mom always did. You grew up checking the oven for pans before turning it on. I did like your rack but I don’t have room for one next to my stove and I’d rather keep them in the oven than have them across the kitchen. 😊 By the way your gumbo looked great! I was married to a Cajun over 30 years and remember getting nervous stirring that roux to the nanosecond from burning to be brown enough. No anemic roux! Lol. ❤

[@BecomingaFarmGirl]

Girl, now THAT'S a sale price. What a blessing! Yes ma'am---like you, I was trained, to the point of instinct to ALWAYS check. Heck, even through I have this rack its throwing me off because I still find myself checking!!! The habit will stick for life, I'm sure! I laughed out loud when I read, "no anemic roux" oh my word!!hahahahaha, love it :)

[@phyllissamkooistra4558]

Hello from our farm in Manitoba , Canada where it is currently very very wintery - lotsa snow & minus 20 to minus 40 temps . Culturally our eating is somewhat different ( gumbo is not a thing here as an example ) & of course our growing season here on the Canadian Prairies is much shorter ( we typically average 90 - 100 frost free days ) but our approach to beautiful nutritious frugal meals is similar ! This is the 1st I came across your channel & very much enjoyed your video ! You have a gift !! Our prices are a lot higher up here & we are a couple hours away from any big box stores but as I said - we still adhere to many of the same ‘ techniques ‘ & most certainly - homegrown , raised & prepared is ALWAYS , ALWAYS best !!

[@phoebegibbs2181]

I just bought 3 turkeys - all Plainville (2 organic!) for 99 cents/ lb. I roasted the smaller one -parted out and frozen already - putting off the other two (I don't want to smell roast turkey for a good while). Froze "stuffing balls" and gravy too.

[@CatholicMomof5]

Try frying the okra in your skillet until the slime cooks out, then add it to your gumbo. Doing that revents the okra slime in your gumbo.

[@shellyfish4896]

I am so inspired! Thank you! Yes - go shopping in January! Also I have the meat grinder attachment and I’ve never used it! You are refreshing and I enjoy your videos!

[@juliabrown5948]

So much to love about this video but omg being able to save the oil in the cast iron is so good! Sold me on the rack 100% 🎉

[@queen6201998]

Your channel popped up in my feed. I shop like this also and it is so hard for people to understand the process. Shopping like you are showing kept me as a SAHM for 20 years

[@Btown-xs3kd]

I’m so happy it’s not just me😂 Thank you for doing what my mama did. And we are mind alike. I’m here for the complete ride! Thanks luv!

[@carakellmeyer5037]

If you want cheap Christmas lights, ornaments and such, Lowe's and Hole Depot begin their 50% off 2 weeks before Christmas.

[@beutfulflwr6245]

I store mine in the oven too & had thought the same thing about hanging them up! Two nights ago after pulling them all out I was thinking that there had to be a better solution and my goodness that’s perfect! Thank you so much for sharing 🤩 and yes, I leave some grease in mine too. Lol

[@BecomingaFarmGirl]

Leaving grease in the pan is BEST PART of cooking with cast iron :) Keeps your pan non-stick and your food flavored!

[@sharonwickey9337]

We have always shopped smart, shopping year round. Love those sales! We are older seniors now, but still shop wisely.

[@kellyname5733]

I love your videos!! And...I loved that you said that you 'can' your ham. I bought a 16 lb turkey for $8 no chemicals in it either. I pressure cook my Turkey's in my 23qt Presto pressure canner. I rub it with spices and then kinda roll it in parchment paper as I don't want it to touch the side of my pressure canner because it is made of aluminum. Im my canner I use a SS low rack in the bottom so the turkey does not touch the bottom. I also use a rack in the bottom of my canner because I was having alot of siphoning with my induction ready canner. The wire rack solved that problem. NEVER LET YOUR FOOD COOK OR BE STORED IN ANY ALUMINUM VESSELS WHERE IT HAS CONTACT WITH YOUR FOOD. 45 minutes later it's done. It's so moist and falling off the bone. I made a huge pot of cream of turkey soup with a bit rice...yummy. Froze 3 of those large food block makers of the soup and ate off the rest of the soup for 9 days. Yes, it was so good that I ate it every day. lol. I made a little cat food too. The water/juice in the bottom of the canner was put into another bowl and placed in the frige so the fat would solidify overnight. Next day I scraped off the fat and I use it to cook with. The rest of the water/juice was used for the turkey soup. Whenever I pressure cook meat I always save the water/juice into jars and freeze it for the future. Nothing goes to waste in this house. When I process any pork or ham I render most of the fat and I do freeze some too. But I will be canning some ham cut into squares in jars soon. Ham is good to have on the shelf.

[@susanpatterson6386]

Kindred, Thanks!

[@BecomingaFarmGirl]

Whoa! This is totally unexpected but very much appreciated! Thank you!

[@invertedangel]

okkkk just discovered your channel, this is everything i'm learning in 2025 all narrated by that angelic voice 😇 you are awesome !!!

[@angelabaril104]

Hey Farm Girl, I am new to your channel and I have southern Alabama roots and S. Florida roots from chuck wagon days. I reuse my grease in my skillet and I do the same thing I store it in my pan. I have one with bacon grease in it now and I just emptied all my various animal fats this morning that I have been saving in the fridge into a huge pot. I am cleaning my animal fat's, boiling it in water. This is the first boil and when it cools and the fat comes to the top I will put it in the fridge to turn to a solid layer on top. Then I will repeat the process 2 more times until the water is clear and the fats are snow white. I then put it in a crock and I make my biscuits with it and cook with it and I do not buy cooking oils at all. I use butter or animal fats to do all my cooking. I am so happy to have found you, I am now 69 and this is how my granny and mama did things and yes storing the skillets in the oven is a thing. Keeping them in the oven keeps the skillets healthy. For a foot note maybe you may want to store your skillets on your rack upside down and only keep the one with oil in it upright. Love to all and God bless.

[@dilay5898]

Watched you for first time. Such a lovely, positive person. Subscribed immediately 😊

[@rosahacketts1668]

As the cast- iron pans are out now; if you are going to leave the oil in them - do cover it with a cloth as air dust and dirt will settle and make you unwell.

[@cassandrac.597]

I’m so glad I found your page! I already ship like you do, I make weekly visits to FL and catch all the mark down meats. People stare at me buying 12 packs of ground beef for $3.37 a pack vs $9 and chicken for $4 vs &10. I make under $60,000 yearly so shopping like this saves me so much money!

[@ChrystalBurkes]

Yes, I check my oven before I cook in it ❣️ you’re not the only one these days 😊

[@lauraklebs4797]

I just got that same cast iron storage tower! I also got some large cork coasters to put between the pots that I stack to protect them a bit more.

[@BecomingaFarmGirl]

Hey Laura! Great minds think alike, lol. Ooooh, good idea to use cork coasters. I'm totally snagging that idea. Thanks for sharing!

[@Aimee-xz1ls]

I grew up with a mom who kept pans in the oven and do the same myself. I hate that there are always pans laying around the kitchen when I am using the oven, but I don't have the space to store them anywhere else! I feel your pain. lol.

[@QUEENLOLATV]

Broth and herbs are medicinal 😊

[@melodyh.781]

As always, loved the video! But I hopped on to share this tip. Take the bell pepper. Flip it upside down on cutting board. Cut down the seams till ya just hit the stem. The pick it up and “peel” off the quarters. It leaves most of the white stuff behind and all of the seeds!! I saw it on YT channel somewhere and it’s the easiest way to cut the pepper now without waste!

[@donnamullins2089]

Made Quiche with ham and asparagus for lunch and it was delicious. May soak some beans later to use my ham bone. Thank you.

[@BecomingaFarmGirl]

Oh I just love asparagus. And yes, use that ham bone!

[@julietbeltran5986]

I’m a city girl, and we also put our cast-iron skillets in the oven for convenience and lack of storage 😊 I love the iron storage that you added to your kitchen❣️

[@melissam5382]

I hear you! Silent shopping sister, right here. LOL I Christmas shop all year long. Not everything is the best price around the holidays. If anything we've actually seen stores raising prices and then acting like they're saving us money. Craziness. Love your recipes and tips. Thanks for helping us live smarter.