Don’t let Njaanuary leave you hungry.

After a long holiday season, comes the infamous “double month” that is January. “We could have done better”, we say as we look at our bank statements. Hard times require practical solutions. Because we cannot hibernate like a polar bear in the winter, having a workable plan to eat and stay healthy is a priority through January as we wait for the next paycheck.

So here are a few budget-saving hacks for meals at home:

Plan your meals in advance: Planning your meals for the week can help you save money by allowing you to make a grocery list and stick to it, reducing the temptation to impulse buy or purchase more expensive items.
Buy in bulk: Buying in bulk can save you money on pantry staples such as grains, beans, and nuts, as well as non-perishable items like canned goods and cleaning supplies. Just be sure to store these items properly to prevent spoilage.

Shop at discount stores: Discount stores like wholesale shops often have lower prices on a variety of grocery items, including fresh produce and meat.

Use coupons and loyalty programs: Look for coupons in your local newspaper or online and take advantage of loyalty programs offered by your favorite stores like Carrefour, Quickmart or Naivas supermarkets.

Grow your own herbs and vegetables: Even if you don’t have a lot of space, you can still grow a few herbs and vegetables in pots or containers. This can save you money on produce and add a fresh, homegrown touch to your meals.

Use up leftovers: Instead of letting leftovers go to waste, plan to incorporate them into your meals for the following days. For example, you can turn leftover roast chicken into a chicken salad or use leftover grains and beans to make a stir-fry.

Cook at home instead of eating out: Eating out can be expensive, especially if you do it frequently. Cooking at home can save you money and also allow you to control the ingredients and portion sizes in your meals.

Reuse cooking oil: Cooking oil is one of the pricier things on the shelf today. With cooking oils like Rina fortified vegetable oil, reusing your cooking is not only safe but easy and you’ll keep enjoying your shallow or deep-fried treats without breaking the bank.

Got any other budget kitchen hacks you’d love to share? Feel free to hit the comment section.