Some Tips On to Turn Cheap Ingredients Into Luxurious Meals
You don’t need to spend a lot of money just to cook a perfect meal. In fact, we have 14 pro tips that will help you turn cheap ingredients into incredible, delicious foods. Stop spending tons of money on fancy ingredients and try these amazing kitchen hacks instead. Soon, you will be saving money and eating better than you ever have before!
Slow cookers can transform even the cheapest cuts of meat into delicious meals. All you will need is a good selection of spices and quite some time. Even though slow cookers can be quite expensive, they will help you save money in the long run. It is one of the best kitchen appliances you can buy, and you will find that you use it all the time!
Eggs are incredibly cheap but can turn into luxurious dishes. From scrambled eggs to Eggs Benedict, this ingredient is perfect for all opulent breakfasts. Not by chance, egg dishes are found in most high-end restaurants. Eggs are an inexpensive, versatile food that you can use in so many ways. You will never grow tired of eating eggs!
Most of the time, people don’t lack the skills to cook but the right tools. Having a powerful blender can help you create a variety of gourmet recipes without having to buy expensive ingredients. From delicious dressings to gelato and soups, your options will be endless. Investing in a good, sharp knife or a nice big slow cooker can really transform how you cook! Having the right tools is even more important than your cooking ability.
Growing your veggies can be a great way to elevate your dishes. If you have a garden, try planting potatoes or onions. If, on the other hand, you live in an apartment, you can consider growing your herbs. You can easily grow lots of vegetables and herbs on the patio or deck. Potted plants are often easier to grow since they are less susceptible to animals that like to eat fresh veggies. You will save money and know that your veggies are from a good, trusted source- you!
Desserts are often cheap but can completely turn a meal from average to top-notch. Flour, sugar, and eggs are all pretty inexpensive but can be transformed into incredible sweets. Whether you opt for a chocolate cake with a soft center or a fresh lemon sorbet, don’t underestimate the power a dessert can have on your dinner. The last impression of the meal is the most memorable!
Ensure your knives are sharp, your pots are cleaned, and your wooden tools are well-oiled. You cannot cook gourmet food without the right tools, so always take care of your equipment. Clean your pots and tools as directed by the manufacturer. Clean them right after you cook, never leaving caked on food on your tools as this can ruin the finish and also be harder to clean later on. Most importantly, don’t be afraid to buy new things when needed.
To impress your guests, you don’t need to opt for expensive spices such as saffron. Learn how to use your species properly, and you’ll be able to create a variety of dishes all your guests will love. You can also experiment with less-known spices such as sumac or coriander. Adding unique spices will really make your meal pop.
Sautéing, steaming, stir-frying, deep frying, roasting… There are plenty of techniques to learn. Pick up a few and keep trying until you’ve mastered the skill. Each can help you create luxurious dishes worth a Michelin star. You will learn plenty of ways to turn cheap ingredients into delicious meals. For example, caramelizing a simple onion can add so much natural, sweet and savory flavor to a dish that it is unbelievable!
Italian cuisine features many meals that are now considered gourmet, but they were first invented during hard times to help people make the most of the few ingredients available. Dishes such as tortellini, peperonata, and the famous bruschetta are not only delicious but also incredibly cheap to make. We have to thank the Italians for all their creative ways to use inexpensive ingredients and make memorable meals.
Prepackaged food is always a no. Whether it’s a dressing or a loaf of bread, it’s always better to make your own. This will not only help you save money in the long run but also upgrade your cooking skills as it will push you to try new recipes. You will be amazed by the dressings, dips, and sauces you can easily make for not a lot of money. Make a bigger batch and freeze the extra so you always have it on hand. It will be even more convenient than running to the store to purchase pre-packaged stuff!
Seasonal fruit and veggies are cheaper than products out of season and have a better taste. The flavor of an apple in season is so much better than that of an apple in the off season. Why waste money on higher-priced, lower-quality items? You’ll be surprised by how adding a few asparagus in season to the side of your dish can completely transform your meal.
Never forget that people first eat with their eyes. Presentation is everything! Even a simple salad can become gourmet if you use the right plate and put extra effort into its presentation. Always add a garnish to your dish as a flawless finishing touch. A fresh, edible flower or a sprig of herbs adds the perfect visual compliment.
When you find a good deal at the grocery store, make sure you buy extra! You can easily freeze meats, seafood, and veggies to save for later. Stocking up on foods when they are on sale will save you money and ensure you always have good food in your fridge. Consider investing in a vacuum sealer so you can portion, seal, and freeze your foods after you buy them in bulk.
When you buy a whole chicken or turkey, make sure you not only eat the meat but also use the bones. Throw the bones into a giant pot of water and let it boil for an hour or two. Then, strain and discard the bones and save the broth. Homemade bone broth is a fantastic base for soups and sauces. Use it right away, or freeze it for later.
