by Wanda Brown
(Abilene, TX)
I discovered years ago that buying packaged meals was not always the best way to go especially if I didn't have a lot of money to spend. Instead of buying packaged products (Hamburger Helper, Stouffer's, etc.), I started looking at the pictures and the ingredients listed on the box. I would then buy the ingredients listed instead of the package. The package is usually good for one meal (I had 3 boys - 3 BIG boys). When I made the same meal homemade style, I not only had plenty of leftovers but I had the herbs and some of the other ingredients on hand for later use. I also had control of the amount of sugar, salt and fat in the food. And it tasted better and was healthier.
Initially it may seem that you're paying more but having the leftover ingredients on hand saves you money in the long run. The food companies now aren't always listing all the spices but then I can get creative.
