Trying to reduce our waste
Yall know the French bread loaves at Walmart?
Sometimes I make our breads, but sometimes I don’t have the time or energy. But it feels like every time I buy this loaf, it molds before I can finish it.
So here’s my little journey on how I fixed that.
I don’t have a picture, but day one we sliced it up and made cute little sandwiches, the kids loved them.
Day two we buttered some slices and served with our pasta.
Day three I shredded the leftover pieces, mixed some egg, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon, and made a French toast bake. Which both kiddos had seconds of and there were no leftovers. And if you’re wondering (bake 350° for 30 min)
I normally meal plan ahead of time, and buy ingredients for specific dishes. Lately we’ve veered from the meal plan as we’ve had tummy bugs, strep, kidney stones, etc hit our house all within a week.
I’m going to try to incorporate how I can use ingredients over several dishes in our meal plans.
This is just one of many changes I’m utilizing to reduce our waste 🥰
Reducing food waste is crucial for a sustainable lifestyle and can also help save money. In the United States, food waste accounts for about 30-40% of the food supply each year. By implementing a few simple techniques, you can drastically cut down on the amount of food you throw away. Start by assessing what you have on hand and plan meals around those ingredients. This not only helps to minimize waste but also encourages creativity in the kitchen. For instance, stale bread can be repurposed in various delicious ways, from croutons to bread puddings. You can also utilize leftover meals creatively by transforming them into new dishes. A practical tip is to adopt proper storage techniques; this can significantly extend the shelf life of your food items. Keeping track of expiration dates and first-in-first-out (FIFO) organization in your pantry can make a huge difference. Cooking in batches and freezing portions for later can save time and prevent the urge to order takeout when you’re busy. Additionally, consider composting food scraps to enrich your garden soil rather than sending them to landfills. Not only does this close the loop on your food system, but it also contributes to a healthier planet. Making these small changes can lead to a significant impact over time. Embrace the challenge of reducing food waste, and inspire others along the way!
