HOW TO EAT FOR $10 A WEEK | EMERGENCY EXTREME BUDGET GROCERY HAUL 2020

[@aliciahupprich187]

I bet you didn’t know in January how relevant these videos would be in just a few months. There are millions of families trying to get by on very little right now. With unemployment and meat shortages, this is helping so many.

[@danakarloz5845]

I feel really sorry for everyone who cannot get to the store or afford food right now.

[@robertterry9934]

Check out the possibility of donating some time volunteering at a food pantry in exchange for some food. I worked with a guy who worked half a day in exchange for a weekly distribution of food which he was allowed to pick instead of having a prepared box just handed to him on the regular distribution day. That way he got what he knew he would use as opposed to trying to make meals from an odd assortment of items. I get cans that are dented which they are not allowed to hand out(local health code regulation and most aren't any more dented than cans I see on the shelf at the local grocery stores) and that at times can be quite a bit. I know meat is hit and miss at the food pantry I volunteer at: some weeks they get a lot and other weeks not much at all. And now some food pantries are in need of workers since the senior citizens have stopped coming to help due to the virus. Just something to think about. Usually church sponsored food pantries are better for this than the govt run ones.

[@danakarloz5845]

Robert Terry I’m so glad that I prepared for this.

[@thehapavegan7177]

@@danakarloz5845 Same, I always over stock on dry and canned goods. My husband was angry and called me crazy the last shopping trip we had and I bought even more dry and canned goods, before everything happened. Now his lips are shut and he is grateful that I stocked up.

[@danakarloz5845]

The Hapa Vegan right now I’m just trying to master the art of gardening...I’m not too good at it. I figure by the time we are living on scraps, I’ll be a darned good gardener! Note: I have at least 3 years of stocked foods 🤓😂

[@collegegirl5994]

I just got laid off and this was the first "extreme grocery challenge" I clicked on. I am a house of one, and it will be a little challenging but this video just saved me. Making all this and freezing it into reasonable portions will be what feeds me for the next 2 months.

[@rosebunnylove]

Hope you're doing well!

[@maepeterson7197]

Rose Reign I was just about to add the sane comment!

[@maepeterson7197]

Charlotte I hope you’re hanging on! Don’t forget there’s help out there ❤️

[@rosebunnylove]

@@maepeterson7197 I love throwing good comments where I can

[@DesireeStamat]

Charlotte be sure to check your local churches for food pantry. Many are adding them due to Covid

[@laurentaylor7303]

I'm not frugal, fit, or a mom but your videos have been my favorite these last 9 weeks.

[@missnerdygirl]

Same

[@danakarloz5845]

😂🥰

[@CRLSMORA]

I'm not even human

[@SneezyReptar]

If you’re in the NYC area you can receive food deliveries. cv19engagementportal.cityofnewyork.us/#/display/5e7555117ad6750216160409 Commented on the top comment so more people can see it.

[@Nicole-jc6nw]

I’ve never related to someone more than this

[@betok3382]

As someone who grew up in a "poor" household, my mother never failed to amaze me in the kitchen. The cupboards and fridge would seem completely bare to us but she would ALWAYS find a way to prepare a meal. We would basically be down to some flour, milk, and the jar of saved grease and she would prepare the best biscuits and gravy.

[@suel6214]

I live alone and always struggling to come up with things to eat other than take out or frozen dinners. Your videos have given me good ideas to not just eat more homemade foods, but to cut my grocery bills.

[@FirstJohn418]

❤

[@annraines1684]

My mother was the same way. We never knew what we would eat but she always put something on the table. ❤

[@karenn8260]

End of the month meals were grilled cheese sandwiches and my dad’s favourite, breakfast-for dinner.

[@misacruzader]

You are so clever and so positive. I've been on food stamps for six months now as I've been furloughed due to the pandemic, and cost cutting measures are so important right now. I buy rotisserie chickens for $5.99 and make stock with the bones. Eggs are a serious staple in my diet too. I hope this year is teaching people how to be more self-sufficient. When I buy spinach and it's spoiling, I pack it into bags and freeze it for smoothies or to add to soups. Same with berries. There's so much we can do to be more empowered in our kitchens and I think your video has some great lessons.

[@dianestranz]

Melissa, you probably already know this, but if you buy your chicken raw and bake it yourself, you'll get twice the meat for the same $5.99. Rotisserie chickens look like an awesome deal from the outside, since most raw chickens cost the same amount or more, but rotisserie chickens are always WAY smaller than raw chickens sold at the same price. And it's SO easy to bake a raw chicken. Rinse it, season inside and out with salt and pepper, stick half of a citrus fruit inside (citrus keeps the meat moist), put pats of butter under the breast skin or rub the chicken with olive oil, cover with foil and roast at 425 for 45 min to an hour. [If you have access to a rosemary bush, snip some and stick fresh rosemary in the cavity along with the citrus fruit, and sprinkle leaves on top and around. The aroma of roasting rosemary is heavenly.] Remove foil, baste, cook 30 more minutes -- chicken should be done. The flavor will blow rotisserie chicken away. Not only can you still use the bones to make broth, but once you pick leftover meat from the carcass, you will probably have enough (1 - 2 cups) to make something else, like chicken pot pie. We NEVER have enough meat from a rotisserie chicken to make another dish. Also, if you keep your vegetable peelings in a baggie in the fridge (carrot and potato peelings, ends of celery, wilting parsley and cabbage leaves, onion and garlic skins) combine that with the bones to make stock and it's like you're getting the stock for free (since everything you are using to make it is something most people throw away).

[@maxinemcclurd1288]

@@dianestranz I had no idea citrus could help keep chicken moist! I will for sure use this info, thanks!

[@dianestranz]

@@maxinemcclurd1288 You are welcome! I usually use half an orange or half a grapefruit (slice off skin on the bottom so that both sides have the inside fruit exposed) but lemons and limes also work. What's crazy to me is that online articles about 'how to keep chicken moist while baking' usually don't include this tip, which is sad -- because it's one of the best bits of cooking advice I've ever gotten. I think I read it in a cookbook 'back in the day' (written by a well-respected chef) -- but it was so many years ago I don't remember the specifics. The once or twice since then that I've baked a chicken without citrus, the difference was VERY noticeable -- in a negative way -- such that I consider citrus an absolutely essential ingredient. And the taste of the meat is not affected: i.e., it will NOT taste 'citrusy.' (as one online article states). If you want your chicken breast to taste like an orange, you'll have to try some other recipe -- because this one is not the one (LOL). Happy eating!

[@staringatchairs7844]

@@dianestranz not everyone has an oven

[@cosmopolitanwonder9675]

Freeze your spinach as you buy it, it doesn’t take up hardly any space, in the freezer,

[@indigoramirez4549]

I have a lot of anxiety about succumbing to poverty and your videos empower me to cut this one worry out of my life. I also appreciate that these foods are fast because I often have low energy or motivation to eat because of depression. Thanks Mom, you're a life saver ❤

[@dianestranz]

Don't be anxious about having to get by on little-to-no money: I've lived far below the federal poverty line for 20 years, and with frugality and creativity, it doesn't have to be that big of a deal. If you cook for yourself, buy only necessary clothing (second hand, which you also mend instead of tossing) and enjoy the simple pleasures of life -- being outdoors, good conversation, reading (the beauty of libraries!), and walking or biking for exercise -- you can live the 'good life' while technically living 'in poverty.' It's mostly a matter of desire and perspective. And read online articles by The Simple Dollar. They are well done.

[@Kay-rl9zw]

Something that always eases my anxiety with that is premaking mixes like pancakes and bread or freezing meals that are good for up to a year or more just to know worst case scenario I buy eggs and milk and will be okay.

[@cathyann6835]

I have a fear of poverty too. When I was a young adult starting out, me and my first husband was living paycheck to paycheck while being frugal but I didn't have any fear then. Birth control failure, I became pregnant with child #3. We both lost our jobs due to a recession and made $5 more on unemployment than those on government assistance were getting. (This was in the 80s and we didn't have as many resources and government assistant rules were more strict). We struggled. I remember looking down couches for a nickel for milk for the 2 younger children. Somebody gave us a small deer they shot at hunting season. We couldn't afford to process it professionally so we cut off chunks and froze it, lol. We were given food as gifts at the holidays. Finally, we were approved for food stamps because enough time laspe since our last pay. Me and my husband ate one meal a day back then. It was rough. I went back to school and got a degree. That marriage ended and I remarried. Things were good until I became injured and disabled in 2013. Husband #2 lost his job a month ago. I'm having panic attacks on and off because I don't want to end my life with the same struggle I started my adult life. But at least I don't have to worry about feeding young children anymore and it's just us two. Take care.

[@TheNinnyfee]

I get you very well, you are not alone in your struggles. Frugality actually is the best thing to prevent much of the vicious cycle of poverty, it empowers you. Your financial situation as a person does not define you, you are still valuable and loveable and not worth less as a person than anybody else. ♥️

[@Lizzy43645]

Geez!! Was there anything that people didn’t complain about in the previous video?! It was perfect and clearly: no one in your home is starving, you understand portion control and it’s ok to bake - not everything has to be bought pre-made.

[@lilrustee]

Liz Kerr I loved her previous video and I still share it!

[@kathleenbolanos]

I loved her first video!!

[@randijohnson3806]

I think her portions are spot on, but the size of the plates and bowls makes it seem small. I found out dinner plates are now 11-12 inches across and they used to be 7-9 inches. I literally only serve on salad plates now, unless the food is big- like pizza.

[@4pcmiknugget852]

I thought the same thing. I wish everyone would stop being so judgmental. It's extremely exhausting.

[@zendira9100]

agreed. just look at her children, they are not only fit, they are also happy.

[@globetrotting2628]

Under $50 for a 126 meals? Wow, and with veggies, fruit, meat and cheese..........The recipes for these meals are simple, and looks great. I'm going to be making your chicken rice soup, and the stir fry dish! Thanks for another great upload.

[@gloriabowie5629]

Very little meat,my grandchildren would look at me like are you crazy.

[@globetrotting2628]

@@gloriabowie5629 I think most grandchildren would eat boxed mac and cheese, PBnJ and Fruit Loops for every meal if they could get away with it.

[@lijohnyoutube101]

Gloria Bowie So teach them new and better habits, a heavy meat based diet is horrible for people anyways

[@VintagekitchenbyOksi]

@@gloriabowie5629 my kids would never eat nothing from this so do I.

[@shannonburks6338]

I love that you encourage people to seek out resources. You have no idea how many people don’t know there IS help. Kudos to you. Love these videos.

[@mlm628]

For all the people talking about how people on SNAP buy no-prep stuff and junk food instead of ingredients to cook need to realize that a lot of people on SNAP work multiple jobs and long hours. At the end of a long day, these people reasonably want to take a load off and relax and cooking isn't always a relaxing activity for people.

[@jaelynn7575]

@Makai Threads You must be young and healthy.

[@conniemiller5125]

Excuse me, but I use SNAP benefits and I do not buy junk foods because there's no nutrition in junk foods. I purchase foods that need prepared and cooked. Even when I was working and tired, I still came home and cooked a meal for my family.

[@mlm628]

@@conniemiller5125 I’m glad you were able to do that. Not everyone is.

[@mlm628]

@Makai Threads Exactly. Snap benefits are important but what really needs to be fixed is labor rights and wages. People deserve to have the time and money to eat and make better food. The availability of good food and fresh ingredients is a huge issue, as well. Snap benefits won’t change the fact that many people live in food deserts where they’d have to take long bus routes to get to the nearest store with fresh food.

[@tamaraliscia3408]

It isn't only that many people on SNAP/EBT want to rest, it's that they often live in food deserts. A bag of flour, baking powder, etc. might be less in the long run at a regular grocery store, but on a week to week paycheck, canned biscuits are all they can get (that fits their budget) at the local mini mart. Grinding poverty leaves people with fewer options. And, it doesn't matter that @Connie Miller could always cook a full home cooked meal for her family. Just because one person can do something doesn't mean everyone else can. Qualifying for SNAP/EBT doesn't mean everyone has access to regular grocery stores, either. Since SNAP/EBT has different qualifying levels for different size families so her comment is even less illogical and unreasonable. And as of June 2021, over 17% of of Americans were considered low income AND lived in food deserts. I'm sure you know what a food desert is, but too many people do not.

[@jessifleming]

I hesitate to comment on how much I find these challenges “enjoyable” simply because food insecurity is so prevalent even in this great nation...but what a wonderful resource. Thank you for the thought you put into this series. Really beautiful and compassionate of you to try and put yourself in the shoes of someone who might not have as much, and show us what you really can eat for less. I was also surprised to hear you say at the end that there was a lot you could do with the shortening- I plan to look into it further but a video on that would be awesome!

[@KC-zn1mg]

No need to feel bad about enjoying seeing cheaper meals. It’s a good way for those who might be struggling to find more recipes and for anyone in general to find cheap recipes to incorporate into their meal planning to reduce their costs.

[@KC-zn1mg]

Also another use for shortening is as a fat for frying chicken. You can use it a lot in baking in place of butter too.

[@bridgetkline2073]

I find these types of videos enjoyable to watch because they give me a sense of security, I know that when I’m struggling with food, I have a resource

[@adagioborntrager4456]

I don’t think she’s making these videos just for the sake of others but for herself as well. The whole reason she shares these thing is saving money, while she might be able to afford more she is trying to save money herself. She’s got more kids than the average American, saving money is a must for all, not just for those who are in poverty. Saving money keeps you out of this.

[@aliciawilliams2503]

I love these videos too, not only are the recipes tasty but it’s nice to have a meals that costs next to nothing sometimes. I’m fortunate not to worry about it most weeks but doesn’t mean I don’t appreciate it. Besides that chicken and rice soup even while cheap to make looks amazing and I can probably make it from what I have in the freezer and pantry and stretch how many days till I need to go to the shops!

[@melissagoodall2373]

you can save a lot of money by getting blocks of cheese and shredding them yourself. 1 block =3-4 bags of shredded cheese

[@amyking4931]

Thanks for the tip!

[@rebeckawoods6093]

Mix some corn starch or something similar into the bag so that they pieces don't stick together.

[@Maren617]

Exactly! Extra tip:shred just before eating it, to avoid moldy shredded cheese (it gets moldy much faster when shredded).

[@olympicgoddess6828]

Some Dollar Tree's have blocks of cheese for $1 and it's good, I use it all the time!

[@dianestranz]

Like Evamaren said, the trick is to shred the cheese just before eating, because it also dries out faster. If we grate cheese for a certain dish (like tacos) but then have some left over, we HAVE to use the leftover grated cheese within another day or two. Luckily it is easy to use up a small amount of leftover grated cheese by sprinkling it on scrambled eggs, a bowl of chili, a salad, or any number of other things!

[@kimbarbeaureads]

People would complain about free diamonds. You are doing great! Keep up the good work.

[@brookespivey5568]

Free diamonds?! How dare you!!

[@janfuger1517]

I have a friend who says, they'd complain even if Jesus himself came down and made it for them.

[@dianestranz]

You are so right. I have a neighbor who tries to see the negative in EVERYTHING. This week I received a postcard from our local Braum's stating that on Saturday it was giving away free ice cream cones to any child under the age of 15. Since this woman has three grandchildren under the age of 15, I took her the card and said, "I wanted to make sure you knew about this: if my sons were still under the age of 15, we'd certainly be going!" She responded with a frown on her face, "Oh, no, no, no: during this pandemic I wouldn't trust ANYTHING being served by a fast food restaurant, because NO TELLING what they are doing to save money!" ???? I stood there speechless, having no idea what to say. SOME PEOPLE ARE TOTAL NUT CASES. LIke I'm SURE Braums plans to 'serve the community' by giving tainted ice cream to kids. That just makes SO MUCH sense.

[@Stephanie-tc4kj]

@@brookespivey5568 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@Michelle-pn9xt]

@@dianestranz How is she nuts??? I agree with her. I have bought food at various places during the pandemic. Some of the things I normally buy look and taste different. Many companies have raised the prices for food and other items too. When I say raised prices, I mean that prices are three times higher. Don't call people nuts because they make different choices than the ones you make. Based on what you have said, you are the only one who said something that was negative. Does that make sense? Her family her choice.

[@lenabigonia333]

It seems like you do this because you genuinely care about helping people. It shows :) I would have loved to have had your videos 10 years ago when we sometimes only had $35 a week for our family of 6. We did a lot by hand then and learned a ton about cooking from scratch and finding healthy options that we could afford. Grateful.

[@joeannchaney1219]

Shout out to the families who who go out there and make it work no matter what!!This is very impressive.

[@andiemac0]

What?! People complained because it "took too long". The convenience of having someone else do the work for you costs more. Put in a little effort, save those pennies, and get the family involved, it's time well spent together.

[@josieschmo4172]

I agree, I couldn't think of any recipe from the referenced video taking a long time. I think many that may have mentioned likely don't cook often enough. .

[@mollyb8136]

Maybe people using this work long hours/multiple jobs. Maybe the difference between an hour long dish and a half hour dish is expensive time wise, or half an hour taken from helping kids with homework etc 🤷 I dno, just some guesses as to why people may have given that feedback. but totally agree with you that it's important to make from scratch to save money. It was kind of Christine to listen to that feedback and accommodate regardless ☺️

[@josieschmo4172]

@@mollyb8136 You make good points. I agree, very thoughtful of Christine to consider the comments of those that watch her videos.

[@cassierennoldson3185]

Sometimes you have to weigh up time vs convenience. If you sacrifice time you’ll save money but if you don’t have the time you you’ll sacrifice money for convenience. Some items I’ll buy convenience simply because I work full time but I will make time for other things. Totally up to the household 😊

[@andiemac0]

@@cassierennoldson3185 True, and I go for convenience too. This video series is about extreme budgeting, thus my comment. I like her quick and easy videos too, like the hot meat on cold salad from a couple weeks ago.

[@pequenabutterfly1668]

Idea : make a series where you use last weeks left over pantry items and people can follow along for a couple of weeks - they can see how using stuff from your last week can help carry the new week too - Love all your videos !

[@Globalfoodbook1]

I'm a huge fan of yours. Brilliant tips to implement. Who else enjoyed this video?

[@waterlilly1498]

After watching this, i now know i am overeating, overspending and overwasting Gotta change something 🙈

[@MyKeturah]

I came for the video, but there's so much love in this comment section. Makes my heart happy. Sending everyone vibes of love and prosperity.

[@man1cpan1c]

This was one of the best budget challenges I’ve ever seen

[@FrugalFitMom]

Thank you!

[@poot72]

I’d like to one w the ages of her kids. My teenagers would revolt at those proportion sizes!

[@carolg.6838]

@@poot72 I think I would eat more too. For me having food prepared avoids a fast food $plurge that cost near or more than one of these meals for Christine's FAMILY. These good and easy dishes will help me avoid that.

[@marciesullivan3492]

I love how you include that neighbors will usually help. If a neighbor ever needed help we would be so happy to give them what they need. We are always looking for people we can assist.

[@ntmn8444]

Reading this warmed my heart so much! You are part of the reason why I say this world ain't such a bad place after all. It's inspiring, and I want to be there for my neighbors as well.

[@sherilynalexnder897]

FYI for anyone struggling to feed their families right now -- in addition to community food banks, if you check with 55+ communities, they often get food trucks 1-2x/mo - trucks from local grocery stores that are getting rid of food items that are too near their expiration dates to put out in the store. It's likely that the 55+ residents won't take all of the food, and perhaps the property manager will give you a call when the next trucks come. Whatever food the residents don't take is typically tossed out by the maintenance staff at the end of the food truck day. You can get a huge variety of foods, especially meats, by taking advantage of this, compared to what you'd typically get from a food pantry. Blessings to all.

[@user-sr3tj5gn8y]

Microbiology tip, you do not need activated yeast to make bread. You can cultivate yeast from something as simple as pineapple juice and a flour. Same idea as sourdough just wild cultivation. Also the pancakes that you can make with it after it has fermented are freaking amazing.

[@aimeehintz8245]

While my kids and I are admittedly super picky eaters and wouldn’t eat most of what you show us, this inspires me to try and cook as cheaply as possible. I do my best to always have most pantry staples. I remember one night being between paychecks and struggling to feed my kids with 3 eggs and zero milk. Thanks to my pantry staples I was able to feed them a treat of chocolate pancakes with peanut butter syrup and had left overs for the next morning when I got paid to go get what we needed.

[@sandi6818]

I grew up in poverty, so it really taught me how to be resourceful and shop wisely. Thank you for sharing because I'm sure a lot of families might not know what to do in times of crisis like the Corona Virus pandemic and job loss.

[@MarkelBeverley]

you didn't grow up in poverty if you grew in the US

[@sandi6818]

@@MarkelBeverley my mom raised my brother and I on $700 a month. Thank god we owned our house. If that’s not poverty then I guess I don’t know what poverty is.

[@MarkelBeverley]

@@sandi6818 I'm sorry your upbringing was unpleasant but that Is not poverty hun. Imagine having to live off $700/mo and you didn't own your house. The fact that you all owned a house cut a huge monthly expense. Now let me say that I am not down playing your struggle AT ALL because I grew up poor myself. But I've been a lot of places and the definition of poverty can change by the standard of a specific society. In this society poverty is homelessness. living in a tent fending for food. That's poverty in the US. Point is... You ate when you was hungry... you got shots when you were sick.. you made it to 18 and after that ...That's it!

[@73cidalia]

@@MarkelBeverley There actually are people in the US who are homeless and who go without meals, so it’s quite the blanket statement to state that no one who lives in the US knows poverty. Plus, your tone, complete with “hun” was condescending.

[@gabbyramirez5805]

When I first clicked, I thought you were going to feed everyone for $10 and was so concerned 😂

[@kristinamilbach1170]

Beans, beans, and more beans lol

[@KC-zn1mg]

Beans and rice rice and beans (hope you get the reference :) )

[@redvorchannel]

Beans beans the musical fruit the more you eat the more you......🤔

[@KC-zn1mg]

redvor channel 1076 nope its a reference to a popular financial advice person called Dave Ramsey that he says a lot to people who have a lot of debt.

[@beatrizaceiton2685]

Why were you concerned?

[@dietitianmama]

I love how the people who are writing approving comments of your videos are dietitians and health educators (like me). :) I love your videos. poached eggs and grits are the bomb! savory grits all the way. but also, dried beans cooked up work for multiple meals - so awesome.

[@whatwouldtarado213]

I LOVE grits with poached eggs!

[@JGDeRuvo]

Toss those veggies in the oven to roast, and you can turn the flavor up to 11 on that tomato soup.

[@claireselby8249]

Good idea!!

[@dianestranz]

Roasted veggies are the bomb

[@emilyhart2252]

I accidently over roasted beets and they reminded me of the mouth feel of a very expensive tender beef. I tried some marinated 1st in beef broth, then roasted and nearly forgot it was an almost vegetarian meal.

[@joyr9093]

You inspired me from your video i came back to tell you I've slashed my budget by 1/4 and don't feel deprived at all! (Made refried beans today in the crock pot! Yay)

[@andrea.rivers]

This is a really good line up of meals on a budget with minimal processed foods. I grew up in a large family where budgeting was priority. Even as an adult as my own situation has stabilized, I still prefer the structure that meal planning and budgeting provides.

[@tiad2125]

My dad is almost 50 and he has had at least 1 if not 2 pb&j sandwiches a day almost everyday since kindergarten! It started at 1 then went to 2 as he got older and he still makes them to this day, and now he and my 3yo son eat them together and his papa is the ONLY person to make his peabutter, and jarry sammies lol

[@Saturn57]

How precious 😊

[@barbarabermudes1287]

So cute!

[@MaryTheresa1986]

Aww! ❤❤

[@tishr6961]

I love these ideas. I’m a vegan and a lot of your recipes can be easily changed to meals I can eat

[@iviefirestarter]

I agree. I'm vegetarian leaning vegan.

[@AnaRitaFlute]

Same! And, depending on your country, it’s actually cheaper!

[@brookespivey5568]

Yea I was just thinking it wouldn’t be that hard to make everything vegan! If you sub the tofu for eggs and then you could use beans or homemade seitan for the chicken in the other recipes! It might make it slightly more in cost but I’m not sure! I know I bought vital wheat gluten once and it might have been $8 but it makes A LOT of seitan and there’s so much protein in it!

[@iviefirestarter]

@@brookespivey5568 oh do you have a favorite seitan recipe? I'm still experimenting with different recipes.

[@sheila3936]

Yep, I make the rice soup but substitute white beans instead of chicken. Cheap and delicious.

[@JG-ve4rg]

One thing I'm going to point out is, before you decide whether to go to a second or even third store because you can get an item there cheaper, figure out if you're going to spend more in gas than you'll be saving. Sometimes, it's best to pay the extra $0.50 or whatever and save the $0.95 in gas it would have cost to go to the other store.

[@jujube2407]

You know how far 95 cents in gas would take me in miles? I get 28 miles per gallon in our suv... 2.19 a gallon... thats really only valid if you live super far from stores

[@cathyann6835]

It's nice that I have a dollar tree, dollar store, Wal-Mart and Aldi all on the same block. Every little bit of money adds up to another item. I have 2 routes I can take home that are only about a 5 minute or less difference. I can pass a giant eagle on the way home with the 5 minute further route. That's very fortunate for me.

[@Michelle-pn9xt]

@@JG-ve4rg Making a comment does not mean that someone is angry. You made a comment. Are you angry?

[@brianspeck3568]

My stores are in a logical pattern with the biggest shopping furthest away, stopping at other stores on the way home costs me nothing extra.

[@jayamilapersson4030]

Or you can maybe not use the car at all and get some free exercise.

[@oh.mylanta.]

That chicken and rice "stewp" (it's what we call that consistency at our house lol) looks GREAT! My only tip to anyone is.. PLEASE lightly fry your corn tortillas (in any oil or shortening you have on hand), and even possibly sprinkle them with salt, to make them SO MUCH more palatable! The bonus is that they hold up to the taco contents a LOT better, too.

[@jamilgotcher5456]

I like the way corn tortillas don't have any salt in them, my Dad and I are both on low sodium diets for health reasons. It's amazing how used to a low sodium diet I have become accustomed to, now I taste the food and not just salt. Corn tortillas make such a great fast low sodium taco meal when we are tired of sandwiches for lunch. There is way too much salt and sugar in our food at the grocery store. Low sodium diet is good is you have high blood pressure.

[@danigrumbles520]

Many of the people in my family struggle with the acidity of canned tomato products. I read a suggestion of adding a pinch of baking soda per can of tomato product and have done so ever since. No longer need to add sugar and tummies are all much happier with tomatoes. If you do this, remember that baking soda reacts with acids and will foam. This will go away after a little bit.

[@emilyrenee302]

Commented before getting to this part of the video. But I always grate my carrots instead of cutting. Hides them better for picky people.

[@redvorchannel]

Makes sense considering mixing baking soda in warm water and drinking it gets rid of heart burn almost immediately.

[@mimijulene6307]

Adding carrot to the canned tomatoes also removes the acidity! Adds a little extra nutrients too!

[@frugalfoodfamily]

I've noticed a big difference when using organic canned tomatoes instead of regular... not sure why. If you shop sales or wmart organic brand etc, you can find them for the same price.

[@rettl.9720]

I was taught in nursing school that adding baking soda to vegetables, esp tomatoes, destroys the Vit C.

[@acorneyelid]

This just made me realize how much I'm overeating...

[@francescacappai2652]

In your defense everyone’s body and appetite is different so what’s working for her might not work for you! Take care

[@kimsmith819]

@@francescacappai2652 you are totally correct. I do not eat all day long 7 days a week until dinner. My husband on the other hand eats breakfast, lunch and dinner every day

[@pepperwoster1469]

Right!? I'm like wow maybe I feed my kids way too much lol! Of course I have a couple of them that are constantly hungry alllll day long

[@Leeanne1983]

Me too and wasting

[@charity9660]

Don’t worry it’s America all we do is over eat

[@christinewills1146]

Texas girl here too! If the grits were for breakfast, then sweet. If it’s for dinner with blackened shrimp, then savory with cheese. For your biscuits sammies, next time cook your chorizo then scramble your eggs with the chorizo. Put on half the biscuit top with cheese and put the top of the biscuit on, voila one of my family’s breakfast favorites! Same for a breakfast taco, just add some pan fried potatoes! Yum! Great budget meal ideas!!

[@pioneerprepper2048]

I love that you do the prices per person. It makes it easy to see how much each family would actually spend.

[@goldenretrievermom7945]

I love how healthy your meals are, I really needed to find a break from watching videos that are food made for people who lift boxes all day lol. I'm sitting on my bum all day doing computer work so I really appreciate having a low calorie chef to watch!

[@razanghidhaoui927]

I love these challenges so much even tho I’m not struggling financially. I just like them

[@kell_checks_in]

21:43 "Always use a bigger pan than you think you need." Julia Child

[@celvsmachine]

Also love that you cook with chorizo!!! Not everyone likes it but it’s so flavorful and cheap

[@lions1310]

I live in Australia and its considered sort of a speciality item here. It's really expensive here (compared to fresh sausages). I find the variations in grocery pricing endlessly fascinating

[@celvsmachine]

Rae oh wow! I would have never thought that. I do live in south west US so maybe it’s just abundant here

[@carmelita4855]

Annnnnnd it’s already seasoned! Bonus!

[@tinaramsey5926]

Loing your videos i lost my husband in August of this year. So I'm all about saving money on food. Most of these recipes I can freeze and put out when I come home from work and don't feel like cooking!

[@sarahmc8309]

So sorry for your loss ❤️

[@kenazfehu7176]

P.S: damn! Sometimes I spend $200 a week for just husband and me. We do end up with food left over for next week, though. I feel inspired to tighten that budget! We can do it!

[@emerald11219]

@@staringatchairs7844 Probably meats or organics. They tend to be more expensive. Shopping in bulk at Costco also required more money per shopping trip but it tends to be cheaper per unit.

[@makayladotts7694]

I want to know how??

[@leradoms]

@@staringatchairs7844 in Canada, groceries are easily 3x the price. One dozen eggs is usually $4.50

[@jamilgotcher5456]

@@staringatchairs7844 She probably meal plans first and doesn't buy things that are on sale rather than buy things that are on sale and make a meal based on what's on sale.

[@Yumi12012]

As someone who is saving to move out and learn to budget/live alone, this is extremely helpful!

[@mrs.pennypincher6172]

Have you ever made cilantro lime rice? So delicious and inexpensive. Definitely elevates your dish. Great video! I saved so many recipes. Thank you for sharing! It will be nice to have some new recipes to add into rotation!!

[@vickyhendriks5226]

Funny how they name “biscuits” differently all around the world. In New Zealand we call them scones. When you said biscuits I was waiting for the cookie recipe lol

[@kattttt9585]

biscuits are different than scones though

[@calindamc3201]

Same! Aussie here we probably stole your name for them lol

[@TheJellyBelly05]

Biscuits are savory though and scones are a sweet baked good in the US. it is confusing though because in the uk biscuits are cookies lol

[@puddintame2338]

@@kattttt9585 The recipes are actually quite similar. You can use Bisquick to make U.S. - style biscuits or U.K. - style scones.

[@Woeschhuesli]

UK scones are not nesessarily sweet...

[@patriciaburr4826]

When I couldn't find yeast on the shelves...I bought beer and made beer bread. It was fun and tasted good.

[@acolley2891]

That sounds good. Irish soda bread is good too and needs no yeast.

[@jenniferwilt8041]

I’ve lost my beer bread recipe. Do you mind sharing yours ?

[@patriciaburr4826]

@@jenniferwilt8041 3 cup self rising flour, 1/2 cup sugar and a 12 oz warm beer. Stir together and place in greased loaf pan in preheated 325 degree oven for 1 1/2 hours. Butter top every half hour. Enjoy!

[@jenniferwilt8041]

@@patriciaburr4826 thank you !!

[@venuss.7218]

I really like the chicken soup, the pbj, bread, with banana, and the biscuit and egg! I cant believe all of those are just $10! You are so creative. Thanks for sharing

[@darlingwolfyful]

I think you are doing a WONDERFUL job of helping families do more with less. I wish I had known all of this when my kids were still at home! You GO girl!

[@juliea2547]

Dollar tree sales, bagels, cheese, milk, frozen veggies, pasta even cookie mix ...you should do a dollar tree meal plan for a week on a budget!! Love your videos!!

[@kassietippett540]

I lived on dollar store foods in 2008 during the economy crisis. Definitely got crafty then. I really think theres far more choices then before.

[@sabrinapulley8049]

This is a good idea!

[@randomweirdo25]

They have amazing spring rolls and their brownies are pretty healthy

[@sheila3936]

That would be an interesting challenge. A lot of people live in food deserts and can’t get to grocery stores. They might have access to dollar stores and usually convince stores only.

[@jennifer7648]

@Alina McPherson For those of us who don't have the funds to be pickey, Dollar Tree food really helps. I used to look at ingredients, but stopped once I realized we can't afford the real food other than fresh fruits and veggies sometimes.

[@rmdrs1011]

Please, please please keep doing these kinds of videos with variety on an extreme budget! These videos are so needed!

[@amyk6453]

Frozen veggies are frozen fresh while fruits and vegetables on the shelves sit out for a long time. So frozen veggies can be a good more healthy way to go and can be pretty cheap too for store brand.

[@sheila3936]

Our frozen fruit is usually half the price of fresh, almost a third of the price compared to fresh raspberries or blueberries.

[@PhoenixFires9]

Amy K I’ve heard that too! I buy frozen fruit for smoothies but I have to admit I like to suck on a piece of frozen fruit in the summer. Refreshing, low cal and quite yummy!

[@lynnmiller1287]

canned fruits and veggies are usually high in added salt and sugar so frozen is so much better for you

[@Quantum_Reality116]

"I dont want to live my life without cheese, do you" 😂❤

[@SeeMindyMom]

Savory grits! I was so happy to see this go up this morning! I’m in the middle of filming a video where I spent just $5 to feed myself for 3 days, and I’m doing a video next month where I feed my family of 5 for a week for $50. Not sure I can be as thrifty as you were, I’m super impressed!

[@d.espinoza2404]

Team savory grits !

[@kristybonventre6661]

I'm in NC and grits are a staple here. You MUST try making grits with chicken broth instead of water. Add a touch of milk at the end to make it creamy and top with cheese. They will be the BEST grits ever. Promise. 😁

[@LoveMoxie36]

I’m going to have to try this, yum

[@whatwouldtarado213]

Co-signed on the chicken broth!

[@sarahgivens7182]

I make them same way. Nc girl also

[@louzing4good]

I used chicken broth to cook rice as well

[@dianestranz]

I use chicken broth to make rice (sometimes) but I've never thought to do that with grits. Thanks!

[@brandyfreeman4098]

You are so good at these challenges!! It amazes me the delicious recipes you come up with using little or cheaper ingredients. I would never think to put some of these things together but OMG do they look so good!! Grits with just butter for me. The biscuits & grits alone had me drooling early on in this video. It just got better & better from there 😉. I hope others find these videos helpful in feeding their families. Don't need a lot of stuff to make a delicious flavorful meal. ❤️

[@djpauloramirez1]

As a single guy living in Los Angeles during this pandemic. You're a Godsent. Thank you!

[@edenenterprises8967]

Signs says 'Please take one'. 'So we grabbed two of those.' 😂 (Love the inspirational videos!)

[@MimouFirst]

Looking at what you bought your groceries look so much like mine right now are! (I'm low on money for the moment.) I live in the Netherlands and most of these items are cheap here as well. Legumes, rice, carrots, onions, celery, pasta, canned tomato, eggs, bananas, all classics. Love it. I normally also have some oats since those are very cheap here as well.

[@noeleenbyrne5197]

Hi Christine, Irish soda bread is an easy alternative too, just as easy as the biscuits, x

[@lorrainebenton1811]

I’m a huge fan of batch cooking I find it costs more at first but I’ll get more dinners for the month x soups, stews and pasta dishes are my go to if I’m short on money for the month. Plus I do grow a lot of my own food saves me a fortune on fresh stuff xxxx

[@kathyharmon2093]

Every time I visited my grandmother she cooked rice with butter and sugar for breakfast ( sometimes with country ham on the side)😋love it!

[@heathermartinez2954]

Yup! Cooked rice with butter, sugar and milk 😋 delicious!

[@nimaben7]

Try sticky rice or normal rice with coconut milk and ginger. Eat it with ripe mango and warm chocolate. #goASIAN #coconutstickyrice

[@PhoenixFires9]

Kathy Harmon I’ve never tried that before but I’m going to. This is probably a dumb question but I’m assuming she served it warm?

[@PhoenixFires9]

Niña Mabuyo Benjamin Ooooooh... that sounds good too!

[@kathyharmon2093]

Bernadette Boyle yes still love it😊

[@Bluemoonracer]

Grits, savory always, never sweet! I scramble an egg to add in, no butter. Best is crumbled sausage, sometimes all three. Some times scrambled eggs and hash browns added in.

[@BrendaC-cf7td]

Hi, Thank you for the video. People complaining about cooking is driving me crazy! Budget means a little work. We are stuck at home.

[@AmberS-V]

I love that your able to not only feed your family good, hearty and healthy meals on extreme budgeting, but you're able to do a good variety of foods as well! Thank you for these videos 💜

[@dianaperez6369]

I'm learning so much from you, you're like the youtube mom I needed lol thank you

[@swampsagacity4685]

A quick easy way to make the creamiest grits is to use a rice cooker. Ignore the marks on the cooker, and follow the directions on the package of regular grits (not fast cooking or quick grits). Make extra and refrigerate leftovers. You can reheat by adding water/milk, or slice and fry in skillet for a savory side dish.

[@sigspearthumb2313]

“That was your dad not me.” 😂😂😂

[@hellybelle5]

I LOVED it when super Mama chipped in ❤️😄

[@chelseamcbride1032]

Thank you so much. This is the easiest budget foods video by far, the meals are fast and easy and still look delicious, there isn't a bunch of "on hand" items, even though I appreciated the suggestion of things we can add, and best of all the link to the shopping list and the meals actually written out. I cant wait to try this!

[@marissa3896]

You put soooo much work into these videos! They’re so enjoyable and well thought out. Thank you!

[@FrugalFitMom]

Glad you like them!

[@TimetravelingArchaeologist]

You ought to pick a ramen flavour like chicken or something else and use the flavour packets in the water for cooking your plain rice if you don't use it in your noodles. Chicken stock in rice with just a tiny bit of cilantro is amazing and would make putting rice into tacos or burritos etc. a little more interesting without adding almost anything to the cost.

[@OrlaQuirk]

I agree. When I am using boullion, I use it to "salt to taste.". My family doesn't eat a lot of salt, so I usually don't have to add any for saltiness. But when I do, the boullion adds a bit of flavor, too. I also have to admit to saving ramen packets that do not get used, and using them like boullion cubes with 2 cups of water. I paid for them, I use them.

[@charitylady7389]

Hint: when you need ramen noodles buy the pork flavor if it is available. Save the seasoning packets. Pork bouillon is very hard to find and expensive when you do find it (at least in my area of the US) and these packets are a great substitute. In fact (at least in my area) even if you wasted the noodles buying the pork bouillon this way would still be cheaper.

[@emilyhart2252]

I like the shrimp or oriental flavored ones, with a beaten egg stirred in. Eating with chopsticks adds flavor. Honest, it does.

[@mommam.6101]

@@emilyhart2252 I really think eating with chopsticks would add flavor because you're kind of slurping and sucking in air. Although I could never manage Chopsticks myself.

[@ecofriendlyemily7488]

Tip: use butter flavored shortening for the biscuits and you'll have such good flavor. Its cheaper than buying butter and a little more costly than plain shortening but if you can splurge for the flavor it's so worth it

[@PetitMju]

OMG! This is not just great to watch and usefull. This is the first time that I see such a challenge where I understand that I would actually enjoy eating ALL of the foods you prepared. Thank you very much!!

[@Iheart2cook]

Hi friend! This is by far THE BEST challenge video I've seen to date. So much variety. I loved that you illustrated that you can have veggies and fruit when on a tight budget. Really well done. God bless

[@dotstrange]

Our local ymca is giving out 20 lbs of produce every Tuesday - check yours

[@redvorchannel]

Wow that's wonderful! I live in Oregon. Where is your YMCA located?

[@redvorchannel]

Wow that's wonderful! I live in Oregon. Where is your YMCA located?

[@dotstrange]

Guess that would have been helpful. Austin Texas

[@dotstrange]

All locations in town are passing out food, even to people without cars

[@renes309]

Yay Oregon

[@dablackkitten302]

I like how you show you picking it up in the store, not just it laid all out on a table.

[@marshalamberth2305]

I love your videos. You are the queen of frugal meals. So far in my life I have been blessed to have enough grocery money. I have always had the means to put good food on the table. Sadly I know that this isn't the case with many people. However for some of your viewers to criticize the nutritional content of these meals is so ridiculous. This must be coming from people that have no idea what it is to struggle in life. Trust me, a nice bowl of soup, or a homemade biscuit and egg sandwich is not going to go to waste in a household where people are hungry. Shame on you people for your lack of empathy. If you are hungry you are going to eat what's available and be grateful to get it.

[@victoriashelton1466]

Love that you add in some Chopped celery Leaves with the soup and beans . A lot of ppl Toss the leaves in the trash but they do have a nice flavor.

[@christyheal8077]

the leaves add great flavour!

[@DarthFurie]

Wow, good to know, I never knew that!

[@ravenhummel8202]

@@DarthFurie Amazing what people toss, beet leaves, carrot leaves, radish leaves, all edible.

[@LiveFree123]

Since being laid off because of covid I’ve had to really watch my budget. I live in Canada and groceries are so much more expensive. Nonetheless, this video was very helpful and has given me some good ideas. Love your channel. God bless.

[@christyheal8077]

Meat is so expensive here in Ontario. Been doing a lot more plant based protein meals and really enjoying them. However, when meat is on sale, we take advantage of it!

[@isabelled1130]

Yes! I live in Quebec and geez is it expensive compared to the USA!

[@narcolepticmelody]

I live in Canada also, take advantage of price matching!

[@LiveFree123]

Yes, I do that! On my way now to shop some deals. Thanks.

[@lisah126]

Alot of the places in the USA arent as cheap as the stuff in her area.

[@kristythecraftypapersmith]

Grits with butter and bacon crumbles, yummy

[@kimbarbeaureads]

Team savory!

[@Pisces11]

That’s how I like it also with s and p

[@KatyInNH]

I like bacon crumbles in oatmeal too!

[@amberchinacat4608]

Ive been watching your playist for the budget meals. It makes me happy to know that people are caring about those that are having a hard time an making it a little easier for us. I appreciate your patience an videos. Thank you! I have a friends who is single with 5 kids an sent her your link. Shes hooked!

[@beckywszalek726]

I love that you included what was left; shortening,flour, etc. :)

[@fancysfolly554]

These recipes are so healthy. I like that there’s not so much emphasis on meat.

[@emmab.1328]

Obviously your not educated on the word “healthy” lol

[@ailoriarayne5086]

The salt content on the canned foods and ramen is outrageous. So those aren't healthy

[@fancysfolly554]

Emma B. U find that funny? Why don’t you educate people? I’m always open to learn...

[@emmab.1328]

Fancy’s Folly you should check out the KZbin channel “flavcity with bobby parrish” for how to read ingredients and which ones are bad but I don’t agree with nutritional advice as he endorces things like keto and relies heavily on animal products. I can’t think of someone to tell you about for nutritional advice because I really don’t really watch nutritional youtubers lol. I’ve made up my opinions from research and looking at reliable studies and reliable sources. I personally think a more plant based diet is the way to go with lots of whole grains, veggies, legumes, fruit, etc I still eat junk too lol you gotta live a little but for the most part i eat healthy in my opinion.

[@emmab.1328]

Fancy’s Folly the reason I deem her meals as “unhealthy” is because there really is no nutrients but if this what she can afford no shame fed is best but I would not call it healthy.

[@minervaperez3041]

I love your these videos you make. I get so inspired I've tried your homemade bread recipe which is now a must in my home and I'm excited to try the biscuits now. Instant corn flour to make tortillas (water is alll that's needed to make tortillas) is worth the buy it's about the same price as a pack of premade tortillas if not cheaper and makes way more tortillas than the package come with. And you can make tortillas, gorditas, empanadas (tried stuffed tacos) pupusas many other things which can also be used as any type of meal. Like for breakfast a chorizo & bean gordita then next day a egg and bean gorditas or bean and cheese emanpanda with a side of rice. Ever since watching your videos on extreme grocery budgeting my mind has been bursting with ideas and I since have made new healthy cheap recipes. Thank you soooo much I look forward to seeing more videos.

[@katrinamcniven6412]

My kids love it with sugar, and if there are any leftover, I let them cool and solidify and then the next day I slice them and fry them in butter. Serve them with syrup. My kiddos love it!

[@gabriellacrystal9986]

I love that you use up the food that you buy!!!

[@valeriavagapova]

I love how efficient it is to cook for many people at once! I usually cook for myself only so I end up eating the same thing for days lol... You're doing such a great job, love these videos!

[@womaninthewave]

Definitely the best $10 per week challenge I’ve ever seen... by a loooongshot

[@dennirussell7870]

I made chicken & brown rice soup this week too! It's a take on my gran's version as she used pearl barley instead of rice. She also would get chicken frames from the butcher and use that to make the broth. Amazing and so healthy!

[@lindsayfranzoni2537]

Another great video. These tips will surely help anyone that is struggling to feed their family, especially right now! Definitely sharing. Keep the low budget videos coming! Thanks to your entire family for being guinea pigs for us.

[@patriciacerwin6266]

I am so impressed with all the nutritious meals you make on such a tight budget for six people. I was never very good at meal planning or budgeting, but now that i am in my 70's and on social security i really value these type of videos. I guess you can teach an old dog new tricks. I learn something every day watching your videos.

[@sherlynpatterson4304]

An alternative meal suggestion from your options could be a Texmex soup/stew made with the leftover chorizo, black beans and tomato soup and add rice if you make the tomato soup without any seasoning except salt and pepper. Serve tortillas as chips on the side with some melted cheese.

[@lucytedder1718]

Grits with cheese, butter and bacon if available!!!!

[@kristinamilbach1170]

I love cheesey grits sooooo much.

[@namehere4954]

Grits with cancer growing toppings to decrease your immune system? Yeah no. Cheap and healthy: beans and rice. Add a veg if you can.

[@KC-zn1mg]

Name Here I guess you’ve totally never enjoyed eating anything remotely unhealthy 🙄

[@lucytedder1718]

Not saying I eat it very often! Love my veg as well. Sauteed kale with soft fried egg..yummy

[@roxanapadure6218]

Grits with cheese and sour cream

[@sonnyteniya]

During college, I always went to the pantry and one of the most repeated meals I made was Chicken and rice. Literally all found at my school pantry: a can of chicken breast, a can of cream of chicken, a can of mixed vegetables, and rice. It was something I always chose because nobody took the canned mixed veggies and canned chicken 😂 still broke as an adult though, which is why I'm here 😕

[@shirleymartin4938]

Last Saturday I took 2 friends with me to BP gas station and their gas was $1 off per gallon, which meant they only paid 69 cents a gallon for 87 (reg) octane! !! Right now with all my friends struggling to pay rent I feel good giving people my discount! Doesn't cost me anything to help out my friends this way! I even fill up their car for free sometimes since its soooo cheap to do so. Since I have 5 000 points this month, I can help a LOT of neighbors too!

[@1986amblin]

Where do you live that gas is $1.66/gallon, and do you need a new friend?

[@shirleymartin4938]

@Amber Powell...I would love to be your friend & give you my $1/gallon fuel discount! Do you live near Williamsburg, Virginia? That price on fuel ($1.69/gallon) I quoted was about 2 months ago....fuel here is now at $1.95-$2.05/gallon. It's probably gone up in other areas of U.S. as well! But I'm still getting my $1.00/gallon discount on up to 35 gallons and sharing that discount whenever my friends need it!! Where do you live Amber? Is there a Harris Teeter or Kroger there...if so..right now thrul August 11 they are offering 4x fuel points on most all gift card purchases. I buy the $100 Visa gift cards that are good everywhere you shop! And I get 400 points for each Visa Gift card I purchase! I even pay my bills with them! Also, you get 2x fuel points when you buy groceries right now thru September! I only buy groceries on sale and use coupons (which they double...every day..all the time) Last Christmas I bought everybody gift cards to their favorite stores or restaurants they frequent...I got A LOT OF POINTS FOR DOING THAT! Anyone reading this should check it out...

[@giarose240]

Because of student loans, I'm entitled to 12,010£ maintenance a year and my 9250£ fees are covered by loans anyway... my rent is 600£ a month but like I never realised how lucky I was to live in the UK for a cheap university. Thank you for these kinds of videos they really help when I'm short in cash

[@sherrymuzykazekestravels6793]

It’s amazing what you can do with so little money when you plan well and buy smart! Great video❤️