She Strengthens

Eating Well on a Shoestring Budget: My Secrets to Spending Less Than $200 a Month on Groceries

When people hear that I spend less than $200 a month on groceries, they often assume I must be living on a diet of instant noodles and ramen. But nothing could be further from the truth. I cook regularly, meal prep, and enjoy a varied and nutritious diet, all while keeping my grocery bills remarkably low.

The Power of a Master List

My secret to saving money on groceries starts with a master list of staples and favorite foods. I keep track of these essentials in my phone and bullet journal, ensuring I always have them on hand. These staples, which include oatmeal, brown rice, quinoa, eggs, and frozen fruits, form the basis of most of my meals. By having these ingredients readily available, I can whip up a delicious and healthy meal for under $5.

Tracking My Purchases and Planning Ahead

Another crucial step in my grocery budgeting strategy is tracking every item I buy. I write down each purchase in my bullet journal, which helps me plan out my meals for the week and identify what ingredients I need to use up. This approach ensures I don’t waste food or money and allows me to create multiple meals from a single set of ingredients.

The Golden Rule: Only Buy What I’ll Use

My number one rule for saving money on groceries is simple: if I’m not going to use it, I won’t buy it. This mindset requires honesty about my cooking habits and time constraints, but it’s essential for keeping my grocery bills low.

Debunking the Myth of Fancy Cooking

I think many people struggle with cooking because they believe it has to be either extremely fancy and expensive or quick and easy but unhealthy. The truth is, cooking can be simple, delicious, and affordable. By setting realistic expectations and finding a balance between cooking and eating out, anyone can develop healthy eating habits without breaking the bank.

Finding What Works for You

While my approach may not work for everyone, the key takeaway is to find a system that works for you and stick to it. Whether you prefer to shop daily or do a weekly haul, the most important thing is to plan ahead, set realistic expectations, and cultivate the habit of cooking and meal prep. With a little effort and creativity, you can enjoy healthy, delicious meals while keeping your grocery bills remarkably low.