Save Some Money in the Bulk Aisle

Have you ever found a really yummy sounding recipe that you were just dying to try, but the thought of buying all the dried herbs and spices required changed your mind due the expense of it? I have. Those things are so darned expensive and the waste is ridiculous. If I only need a teaspoon of this spice and a heap of that dried herb, then why on earth would I want to invest in a jar that may take me a year(or more) to use? I am on a tight budget so when I discovered bulk bins and containers at my local health food store, I decided to go for it. I mean, I knew they existed, but just figured it was too much of a pain to bother. Well, let me tell you, I was wrong. It is the ONLY way I buy dried herbs and spices(among other things) now and you wouldn’t believe how much I get for such a small amount of money. One time they even had to add a coin to the scale because the 20 or so bay leaves I had didn’t register on the scale! Pennies I tell you, pennies! I am a natural skeptic so I did need to see proof for myself so one thing I did was take an old cinnamon bottle(at my health food store you can bring your own clean containers-added bonus-even less waste!) and filled it up! Are you ready for this? When I bought the bottle at the other grocery store I paid over two dollars for it, but the refill only cost me about fifty cents. I am NOT kidding! Now, my store also sells empty containers, which I could pay for, fill with an herb or spice and still have spent less than I would for a new one at the supermarket.

Here is what I suggest: start a list of some common herbs/spices that seem to be in many of the recipes you enjoy. The next time you are at or near a store with bulk bins or containers take a few minutes and grab those items on your list. I promise you will probably spend less for all combined than you would for one by itself off the shelf AND you are only buying what you actually need!! I may be corny, but this is something that actually excites me! Happy Shopping!

Green AND Frugal all in one post! That is insane!