Save time and money in the kitchen

As the credit crunch bites, become more shopping savvy and you could save both time and money while serving up tasty meals for the family

As the credit crunch bites, become more shopping savvy and you could save both time and money while serving up tasty meals for the family

Plan your meals before you shop

Work out what you're going to eat each night so that you can plan your grocery shop more carefully.

As a nation we throw away a shocking amount of food each week, up to a third of what we buy.

Planning what we buy, cook and eat can help us feel healthier, save money and cut down the food we waste.
Stick to the list!

Sounds so simple but don't be swayed by supermarkets' clever ploys to make you part with your money.

If you've carefully planned your week's menu, buy only what's on the list and you'll stay on budget.
Eat with the seasons

Seasonal food should be plentiful and so cheaper than produce that has to be flown in.

Check farmers markets for great offers on seasonal veg, or buy your vegetables from a box scheme.

- Get the lowdown on box schemes
Love the uglies

Many supermarkets now use misshapen fruit and veg in their budget ranges.

Okay, you may need to hone your peeling skills, but once cooked, these ugly veggies taste exactly the same as their perfect cousins, at a fraction of the cost.
Don't go for prime cuts

Choose cheaper cuts of meat and you'll be rewarded with great flavour.

Opt for slow cooking to ensure maximum flavour and tender results. If you're making stews or casseroles, consider using meat on the bone instead of already diced meats.

Try lamb shanks with rosemary
Become an ice queen

Your freezer can be an asset or a disaster area depending on how you use it.

With a little planning you can take advantage of supermarket deals and discounted stock, but remember to portion food before you freeze it, and label everything, unless you enjoy pot-luck suppers!
Bake in batches

If your oven is hot, it makes sense to cook several things at once, saving both your fuel bills and time.

Double up on cake recipes and freeze the extra. A crafty cook can also use all the shelves in the oven, roasting veggies while cooking a casserole while making meringues etc.

- Perfect fairy cakes
Go veggie

Fish and meat are expensive forms of protein, so have a few meat-free menus up your sleeve.

Use your imagination and concoct some vegetarian delights, or check out Nadine Abensur's quick ideas for inspiration.

- More vegetarian recipes
Beware of BOGOFs

Supermarkets use 'Buy One, Get One Free' deals all the time and they're great if you use a lot of the product on offer.

Stay strong, and don't be seduced by the bargain only to find yourself throwing away food that's passed its sell-by date.
Make multi-meals

If you're cooking basics, like tomato sauce or mince, it only takes a little bit of extra preparation to double the amount.

Keep your base mix simple, so you can add different flavours to each batch. For example, if you make a basic mince and onion dish, with a few extras it can be transformed into a bolognaise sauce, chilli con carne, or cottage pie.