Suburban Homesteading – Frugal Living

Making Your Own Mixes Can Save You Big

For years I purchased packaged mixes. You know the ones – chili, salad dressing, marinades and drinks. They may be quick and easy to use, but who needs all those chemicals so often used in processed foods coursing through your veins much less the increased cost of buying in small qualities. In just a few minutes on a slow evening you can create all of your family’s favorite mixes. Most ingredients will be in your stocked pantry and the ones you need to buy will cost a fraction per serving over the mixes you’re already buying.

Take for instance, Pumpkin Pie Spice. A container that weighs less than an ounce can cost between $3 and $4. But, if you have a well stocked pantry you probably already have all the ingredients you need to make your own – minus the preservatives that are added to commercially made mixes.

So take a few minutes and whip up your family’s favorites or most often used mixes. When stored in air tight containers they will last for months. Recycled pint-sized jars make the perfect container for most mixes, and have room for labels and recipes so they can be refilled later. Read the rest of the story »