by Mona Davey

Created on: March 27, 2010

How to plan meals for a large family on a budget

Being part of a large family is great as there is never a dull moment, unconditional love and acceptance are part of the norm, children learn quicker and become more adaptable in larger family groups and you have a sense of belonging. However, feeding a large family can be challenge for the parents and can make a serious dent in the family allowance but with careful planning the food bill can be less of a strain on the purse.

* Grow your own food *

It is a well known fact that growing your own produce is cheaper than buying it. If you have a garden, balcony or an allotment plot, make the most of it and grow your own vegetables, salad produce and fruit. Grow your own fruit and vegetables organically for two reasons – it is healthier if you and far cheaper, therefore reducing part of your grocery bill.

* Make your own *

Wherever possible make your own food including cakes, biscuits, and puddings. This is far more economical than buying ready made shop bought ones. cakes and puddings always taste better than shop bought ones.

* Recipes *

Next, find as many recipes for meals as you can from cookery books, library and via the internet. We all get into a routine of cooking the same meals and do not necessary consider the cost. Why not have a refresher course to find alternative meals to make and save money at the same time. Ask friends if they have any good recipes for healthy meals which do not break the bank. Many newspapers and magazines feature a recipe column or page, which are aimed at reducing the weekly shopping bill. Start a folder of the fantastic recipes that you have found so you can refer back to them in the future.

* Stock take! *

Look in your cupboards, larder, fridge and freezer to find out what you really have already. Then refer back to your new recipes to see if you can use the ingredients or make a meal from what you already have in stock. It sounds very basic but you will be surprised at what you can do with a few simple ingredients.

* Organise yourself *

Organise yourself by preparing a planner for the week. This can be done on the back of an envelope or a scrap piece of paper, there is no need to waste valuable money! Choose meals that all the family will eat and do not be tempted to give in to fussy eaters.  If you start making different meals for the fussy eaters, then you will spend more time in the kitchen, your shopping budget will increase and a bad habit will be introduced,

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