The Ways of my Kitchen

 You know I love to save.  You know it has become a way of life for me.  I find it fun and I find it a challenge.  I have gotten to a point in life, that I don't have to do as many things to save - it just makes since to me.  Why in the world would I waste things?  I like being a good steward of what I have.  It makes me feel good.

Spices, herbs, condiments can jazz up any food!  No need for things to be bland and tasteless.  You can jazz up anything - I love adding flavor.

Milk - if it starts 'tasting' a bit off - I do NOT throw it out.  I make biscuits, waffles or pancakes with it.  Those items can be frozen for a later date.   I freeze the milk in ice cube trays and save for making milk shakes or smoothies or soups.  Other flavors take away that 'off' taste.  Grandma always used soured milk in biscuits!!!!

You know I love clearance.  I found some sparkling water on clearance a while back.  Peach - sounded yummy to me.  Zero calories in this case did not mean sweetener added - it meant nothing added. YUCK.  Basically, carbonated water - which is bitter.  Not being one to waste it, I started adding about 1/4 can of it to a glass of iced tea.  WOW, what a difference and now I can have flavored tea.  It is really good that way!!!!  You can add any juice to tea or a sprinkle of Kool-Aid to add flavor and have a custom tea instead of buying those fancy flavored ones.

Added as a flavoring and not just water - it is tasty.  Went from Ick - to yummy. 

Old buns - I can't get through a package of buns before they go stale all by myself.  I throw them in the frig (I know bread shouldn't be refrigerated).  I use them for making garlic toast, toast, croutons, breadcrumbs, bread for stuffing, mini pizzas, and I even place on top of a pan when making burgers or dogs and 'refresh' them with steam. (I have a slotted pan).

Lettuce is getting expensive this time of the year - as it is not in season for leaf lettuce.  Some people say that head lettuce has really gone up in price in their area.  Still affordable here.  BUT, I buy lettuce on markdown!  I bring it home and add a paper towel to the container - and it will last a good couple weeks or longer.  The towel wicks all moisture away from the lettuce and it stays fresh.  This is the ONLY way I buy lettuce.

You know I love clearance.  I always check the clearance in produce aisles first (as you walk in store).  I can get the .99 bags at Kroger and I check the regular displays as there is always something marked down.  It may be lettuce, carrots, slaw mix, cut up broccoli, fruit, etc.

I also check meat area, bakery shelf, bread, and the main clearance section in the store.  I get a lot of deals this way.  Also, walk the aisles, as there are things here and there that are marked down as well.  You have to pay attention.  I even get goodies in the freezer department.  My Kroger has an end freezer that is for clearance - you never know what you might find.  

FREE - I never turn down free either.  IF I can't use the item, I will get it for someone else.  Never turn down free.

I save pickle juice and olive juice.  I can use either as a marinade over meat to add flavor and to tenderize.  I like to use them as a flavoring - poured over salad.  If you like tomato juice, V-8, or even that occasional Bloody Mary - try adding dill pickle juice!  Oh my, I love the extra flavor it gives tomato juice.

I also keep the dill pickle juice to aid in my restless leg problem.  YES, it does work.  If my legs start acting up - I drink maybe a shot or 2 of the juice and within minutes I get relief.

I can stretch food like a maniac!  Sure, it is just me - but I have always done this.  I can turn leftovers into something new and different.  I like Zatarain's or Aldi beans/rice or dirty rice mixes.  It is easy and quick to make.  I can add other ingredients on day 2 and make soup. I can use in Mexican dishes - tacos, tostadas, enchiladas, etc.  I can add to a baked potato.  

Chili - oh my.  As is, over macaroni, over rice, over baked potatoes, as a topping in a casserole, served with sour cream or shredded cheese, on top of hotdogs ........ there is just no end to the ideas. 

I will tell you about turkey next week!!!!  

There is no limit to what ways a leftover can be used - only limit - your imagination!!!!!

You know I water down shampoo and dish soap, and many times I add a little bit of vinegar to them.  That helps with grease cutting and makes things shine (even hair).  I use waaaaaayyyyy less laundry detergent than called for.  You can rinse and rinse, and residue stays in your clothes - use less.

I also use peroxide or baking soda in washer.  Peroxide is natural and I use to brighten whites.  Baking soda takes away any smells.  I use vinegar or nothing as a fabric softener.

Old baking soda (no longer viable for cooking) works as a tooth whitener.  I use it and peroxide mixed about once a week (per dentist).  I use as a household cleaner - instead of cleanser.  I use in the refrigerator as an odor absorber, and I have sprinkled on carpets (let it set a while) and vacuum to pull any odors from the rugs.  Can be used in litter boxes, to absorb odors.

I like specialty things now and then.  As Penny stated Sunday in comments, Aldi has a lot of specialty items they sell.  It is especially neat around the holiday - so many different things to choose from.  Cookies, nuts, candies, mixes, cheeses, frozen items, you name it!  Delicacies at bargain prices!!!

I like to splurge now and then and buy a few fun and delectable items!!!  I love smoked Gouda cheese.  It is very expensive at most stores (if you can find it).  I get it at Aldi for much less than other places.  I generally stock up for several months, around the holidays.  They usually have a decent price then.  It is just a treat and it is now a favorite on the cheese/meat platter I make at the holidays!

                                       This is a combo of Gouda and cheddar!  2 favorites in one!  

                                 Normally I get straight smoked Gouda - real cheese - and so good.

There are just so many tricks one can use to stretch items, save a little money and just be creative.  It is fun and a challenge.  That is my main thing - I love being different.  It is never boring!

What say you?  What are the ways of your kitchen that we may need to know?

Have a great day!!!!