Eating out can be a fun treat, but it often comes with a hefty price tag. Many popular foods can be made at home for a fraction of the cost, without sacrificing flavor or quality. By cooking at home, you not only save money but also have complete control over the ingredients and portion sizes. Here are 15 foods that are way cheaper if you make them yourself.
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Pizza
Making pizza at home is fun and cost-effective. For a basic pizza, you need store-bought or homemade dough, a can of tomato sauce, shredded cheese, and your favorite toppings. Preheat your oven to 475°F, roll out the dough, spread the sauce, sprinkle the cheese, and add toppings. Bake for 10-15 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
Guacamole
Fresh guacamole is easy and cheaper to make at home. You need 2 ripe avocados, 1 lime (juiced), 1 small onion (chopped), 1 tomato (diced), and a handful of cilantro (chopped). Mash the avocados in a bowl, mix in lime juice, onion, tomato, and cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve with tortilla chips.
Hummus
Homemade hummus is simple and more affordable. You need 1 can of chickpeas (drained), 2 tablespoons of tahini, 1 garlic clove, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Blend all ingredients in a food processor until smooth, adding water if needed for consistency. Season with salt and drizzle with olive oil before serving.
Salad Dressing
Making your salad dressing is cheaper and healthier. For a basic vinaigrette, you need 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of vinegar (balsamic or apple cider), 1 teaspoon of mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk all ingredients together in a small bowl until emulsified. Adjust seasoning to taste and drizzle over your salad.
Granola
Homemade granola is cost-effective and customizable. Mix 3 cups of oats, 1/2 cup of honey, 1/3 cup of oil, and your choice of nuts and dried fruits. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and bake at 300°F for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Let it cool before breaking into clusters and storing in an airtight container.
Bread
Baking bread at home is rewarding and inexpensive. Combine 3 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of yeast, and 1.5 cups of water. Mix until a dough forms, cover, and let it rise for 12-18 hours. Preheat your oven to 450°F, shape the dough into a ball, and bake in a Dutch oven for 30 minutes with the lid on, then 15 minutes with the lid off.
Soup
Homemade soup is healthier and cheaper. For a basic vegetable soup, you need 2 carrots (sliced), 2 celery stalks (chopped), 1 onion (chopped), 2 garlic cloves (minced), and 4 cups of broth. Sauté the vegetables in a pot with a bit of oil until tender, then add the garlic and broth. Simmer for 20 minutes, season to taste, and serve.
Smoothies
Making smoothies at home saves money and ensures freshness. For a basic smoothie, blend 1 cup of frozen fruit, 1 banana, 1 cup of yogurt, and 1 cup of milk or juice. Mix until smooth and enjoy a healthy, homemade beverage. You can add protein powder or greens for extra nutrition.
Pasta Sauce
Homemade pasta sauce is simple and cheaper. Sauté 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves in olive oil until soft. Add 1 can of crushed tomatoes, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of dried basil. Simmer for 20 minutes, season with salt and pepper, and serve over your favorite pasta.
Ice Cream
Making ice cream at home is fun and less expensive. Mix 2 cups of heavy cream, 1 cup of milk, 3/4 cup of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Churn the mixture in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Freeze until firm and enjoy your homemade treat.
Tacos
Homemade tacos are customizable and cost-effective. You need 1 pound of ground meat, 1 packet of taco seasoning, tortillas, and your favorite toppings. Cook the meat with the seasoning, warm the tortillas, and assemble with toppings like lettuce, cheese, and salsa. Serve and enjoy.
Chicken Stock
Homemade chicken stock is a great way to use leftovers and save money. Simmer a leftover chicken carcass with 1 chopped onion, 2 chopped carrots, 2 celery stalks, and water for 4 hours. Strain the stock, discard the solids, and use or freeze the liquid for soups and stews.
Yogurt
Making yogurt at home is easy and cheaper. Heat 1 quart of milk to 180°F, cool to 110°F, and stir in 2 tablespoons of store-bought yogurt. Pour into a container, cover, and keep warm for 6-12 hours until set. Refrigerate and enjoy your homemade yogurt.
Salsa
Fresh salsa is quick and inexpensive to make. Combine 4 chopped tomatoes, 1 small onion (chopped), 1 jalapeño (chopped), 1/4 cup of cilantro (chopped), and the juice of 1 lime. Mix well, season with salt, and let sit for 30 minutes for flavors to meld. Serve with chips or as a topping.
Energy Bars
Store-bought energy bars can be quite costly and often contain added sugars and preservatives. Homemade energy bars are healthier and more affordable. Mix 1 cup of oats, 1/2 cup of peanut butter, 1/4 cup of honey, and 1/2 cup of dried fruits or nuts. Press the mixture into a baking dish, refrigerate until firm, and cut into bars. Store in an airtight container for a quick, nutritious snack.
This article originally appeared on RetailShout.
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