Here in Oregon, the big-box store with the great bulk foods section is called Winco. I'm sure there's one where you live, too. I don't know what it's called-why are you asking? Find it. Find it and buy a couple of BIG BAGS of a few items. Is it a large initial investment? Yup, especially when you take into account your monthly budget. As such, I recommend that you buy it in stages. Buy one bag each of the following staples every month, for the next three months. Shut up! You'll love me for in the long run.
1. Rice. Yes, buy rice. Buy a big bag of WHITE rice. Brown rice of course, is much better for you, but has a very short shelf life. I strongly suggest a big bag of Basmati or Jasmine rice from your local wholesaler. A 25lb bag is optimal- this will last forever. You can use rice in nearly all of your side dishes, so the initial investment will pay for itself. Just buy it, and eat a lot of rice with your meals for the next month. Then, put it to work for you!
2. Beans. Beans are very versatile. I recommend red kidney beans, as they seem to be the most versatile of the bunch. Shut up, just do it! A big 25lb bag will cost about $15 at a bulk food supplier, and the long term benefits are healthi (er) eating for your family. So, suck it up, and buy them!
3. Flour. I recommend whole wheat flour, though ALL flour loses a portion of its nutrition in a very small amount of time. Whole wheat flour is the best option. You need this, I promise, so just trust me, ok?
There will be more posts very soon regarding bulk food and SPICES. Don't discount herbs and spices as an important part of your diet. In fact, if you're on food stamps then you should pay even greater attention to the health benefits that herbs and spices can bring to our tables. Kids sick much? Add herbs and spices to their diets.
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
Mission Statement
This blog is for omnivores. There are millions of Americans living on food stamps, and my goal is to share with you ways to feed your family in a healthi (er) way.
I see so many accounts of people who are not able to make their food stamps stretch for an entire month. I see testimonials of those "forced" to buy more hot dogs, macaroni and cheese, and cheap lunchmeat in order to make ends meet.
You don't have to go that route! While not all of the options I will be addressing are entirely healthy/organic, they WILL provide a way for your family to eat healthi (er), and to make your dollars stretch.
I will be providing real-world advice and real solutions to your food woes.
It does take more work to feed your family higher quality meals, but it's worth it in the end.
Stay tuned!
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