What are /r/EatCheapAndHealthy's favorite Products & Services?

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I would recommend popcorn. But buy the kernels in bottles, rather than the bags. It's also on the healthier side of snacks, if you don't drown it in butter and salt.

I tend to find roasting a good method. Barring that, a good sauce goes a long way towards helping with things you don’t love eating. Spending some time with a sauce-centric cookbook, like this one , could prove useful in a ton of cooking situations, including dressing up things you struggle with. Good luck!

I always make pan fried broccoli and italian sausage with chilli flakes, fresh rosemary and strozzapreti pasta. Lots of olive oil! I had it once at a chain Italian, and it's 100% my favourite.

I also like the fennel and pork in mustard white sauce from the batch & freeze section of Cook Express

Recipe added! u/Pollyhotpocketposts Pork with fennel and mustard https://imgur.com/gallery/FVafY4J

You should look into camping/backpacking food - as this is meant to keep well. This is one of my favorite camping cook books.

You will need a camping stove though, and possibly a cooler. Do you have those or are you looking for prepared meals?

Some of my favorites are pita pizzas (grill a pita that’s stuffed with pizza toppings), Mac & cheese with veggies, tortilla rolls (PBJ or ham and cheese), and plain old rice and beans.

EDIT:

>Always look at an original label first - 1 tsp/6g of standard Better Than Bouillon chicken base is 680mg/28% daily intake of sodium. The reduced sodium version is 500mg/21%.

see post below

https://www.fatsecret.com/calories-nutrition/better-than-bouillon/chicken-base

I've subbed out the packet of a chicken ramen with Better than Boullion, which is basically concentrated chicken flavoring in a paste form which you mix into things.

One pack of the Maruchan seasoning is 1,370 mg of sodium.

I would suggest using 1 tsp of the chicken boullion paste, and then jazzing it up with a tiny bit of low sodium soy sauce and a bit of sesame oil. Neither the soy sauce nor the sesame oil requires more than a little bit of a presence, they both go a long way.

You could also make your own chicken broth, basically boil celery, carrots and chicken bones until it creates a a delicious broth much better in quality than storebought. Then you would have an end product that is salt-free, and you could re-introduce salt levels to taste.

Hope this helps.

I'll match that.

OP please provide an email attached to your paypal account so we can send you money. If you'd prefer to keep your email private, you can simply create a new email address (or use a service like 10minutemail and add it to your account. Then provide that email to us and we can send you money.

If you need something non-paypal / quicker, I can send you money using Chase's QuickPay. I'll need an email for that too. You'll get a link, enter your checking account info and it'll be transferred in. Not sure on how long that takes, I think that depends on the receiving bank.

Important:
There is a user who PM'd me called /u/igivefreinsults_ (note the missing e) giving a PayPal e-mail with "bitbooms" in it. If you sent money to that paypal user, be aware that the person receiving your money is not OP. You can contact Paypal's customer service and explain the situation to attempt to receive your money. Or cancel it. I don't know - I haven't used Paypal in quite some time.

I bought myself a mini crockpot, it doesn't cook it only heats but if you plug it in an hour or so before lunch you'll have a nice hot meal. It was this: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006H5V8QW/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1It doesn't get hot on the outside and uses no more electricity at your desk than a small personal fan would, also smells don't escape it as it's heating the food.

Leftovers, soup, stew, even just the noodles with chicken and some veggies added to fill them out; will all make a good lunch either in a thermos (not super hot but at least warm) or using the crockpot to fully heat.

This book might be what you are looking for

Fix, Freeze, Feast: The Delicious, Money-Saving Way to Feed Your Family https://www.amazon.com/dp/1603427260/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_rYUzAbVJ7V3MM

I checked out the e-book from my library to my kindle. She shops at Costco and the recipes use up the ingredients.

If you use zip bags to freeze or store food, you can use the immersion method to get the air out of the bag. This will help to prevent freezer burn. Also, when freezing or opening items that need to be refrigerated, take a marker and label it with the date the it was opened/stored. That way you you will not have to guess at shelf life. I bought a dry erase magnet for my refrigerator. I keep a running list to reduce waste. It's known as first in, first out food rotation (FIFO).

Try the App Mealime, it's a cooking app that you can select your tastes, likes, dislikes, allergies, and then gives you a shopping/ingredient list.

Edit: Format.

Burrito bowls: Buy the cheapest cut of chicken (usually leg quarters) pull the skin off & put them in a crock pot with a couple jars of salsa, cook until the chicken shreds easily off the bone, usually 5-6 hours on low. Pull the chicken out & shred all the meat off the bones, strain the salsa. We use these containers and place 3/4c. rice, 2Tbl sp. of pinto or black beans, 1-2Tbl sp. of strained salsa from crock pot, 1/2c chicken, top with shredded cheese. They freeze really well, just pop in the microwave to heat. These end up costing about $1.50 each & they are very filling. When I heat mine up I also like to squeeze a little lime wedge over it & add some Cholula sauce.

Exploring different seasonings and marinades could be fun. Chicken is so versatile, it can really act as a canvas.

Quick flavors/styles I have on rotation are: Japanese curry, Chinese stir fry, general tso’s, this Korean marinade, pan fried lemon butter herb chicken, teriyaki, coq au vin

Rotisserie chickens are gifts that keep on giving. While the chicken itself is delicious, you can make stock/soup from the bones with no effort. From the bones you can make arroz caldo (Filipino style congee), chicken noodle soup, Mediterranean style lemon chicken soup with orzo, the list goes on and on!

The stock is a great base for making sauces and adding flavors to things that you cook as well.

Invest in a heavy duty cooler then to mimic refrigeration at the bare minimum . Better than getting on meds for high blood pressure and diabetes, for sure.

Salad is easy to prepare, and possibilities are endless. You can even hack the rice cooker, turning it into a crock pot, etc. Here’s a good start for reference.

I can't believe nobody has said this but Tasty Bite has a bunch of different Indian/Thai pouches that are pretty low calorie and very filling. The lentils one is my go-to but they are all pretty good of the ones I've had. I usually get a big pack at Costco. Also if you want to make it a full meal you can add rice.

https://www.amazon.com/Tasty-Bite-Indian-Lentils-Microwaveable/dp/B0007R9L4M

Here's the download link: https://gofile.io/?c=su3iVc

Here's the plan. It's not so much meal prep honestly as it is "Get ingredients that will let you prepare a meal with minimal effort on low spoon days." So most of the ingredients that I have on here (With a couple of exceptions - Deli turkey, eggs, yogurt, and bagged spinach) are non-perishable so that you can have them when you need them.

Some simple meal preps that I do include:

• Chicken and snow peas (Slice up 1 chicken thigh per serving and brown in a skillet; Add snow peas and a little water to cook down; Add bottled teriyaki sauce. I usually do this with rice)
• Rice with chickpeas (Add chickpeas into a skillet and season; add cooked rice and add more seasoning; add frozen vegetables if you want to)
• Crockpot pulled chicken (1 chicken breast per two servings, balsamic vinegar, honey, basil, and cherry tomatoes, added to the slow cooker and cooked on low for 6 hours. Great on sandwiches)

Edit: If you don't have Excel you can upload the file into Google Drive. It converts correctly.

I don't buy too many food items from Amazon, but I will recommend this green curry paste! I could only find the Thai Kitchen pastes in my local grocery store which I found underwhelming, but this one is delicious :). Also looks like you can buy Tony Chachere's creole seasoning which I am obsessed with.

Sorry I don't have real recipes with measurements since I learned this from my mom but...

Mexican rice

Heat medium pot, add oil, chopped onion and garlic and about one cup of rice. Fry until both rice and onion are translucent. Add one small can of tomato sauce. Use the can to add three/four cans of water. Add chicken bouillon, like a tablespoon or so. (Taste the water/broth. How ever it tastes, is how your rice will taste. If you want to add extra gailc powder or onion powder, whatever you like, you can but it's up to your taste) Bring everything to a boil. Once it boils, bring the heat down to low, cover and let cook for like fifteen to twenty minutes.

Arroz con pollo

Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper and a small amount of cumin. Heat large pot and add oil. Fry the thighs to get the skin crispy but not completely cooked all the way. Remove chicken, set the chicken aside and keep warm. In the same pot, cook onion, garlic, chopped green bell peppers (add oil if needed). Before the onion gets translucent, add like two cups of rice or so. Cook until rice is translucent. Add one packet of sazón con azafrán (I use this one:https://www.amazon.com/Goya-Sazon-Azafran-1-4-oz/dp/B0005YWXQU). Add about three to four cups of chicken stock/broth (I've even used hot water with chicken bouillon when I didn't have either, just use what you have or can afford). Add capers and chopped olives (get the green olives with pimentos for a better flavor). Get everything to simmer. Once it simmers, add the chicken thighs back to the pot (wiggle them into the rice). Keep everything on low heat until the rice cooks and the thighs finish cooking. Top with fresh cilantro and lime.

Now wait a second. A LOT of the stuff posted on this sub isn't exactly clean and healthy and perfect. There's a lot of misinformation about nutrition that gets thrown around here. No one is perfect.

There are absolutely reasonable offerings at Taco Bell if you pay attention, plan ahead and know what you're getting and occasional fast food CAN be part of a healthy diet. What makes it unhealthy is either too much of it/consuming it daily. Cheat days exist. Let's not act like everyone can only eat quinoa and lentils every day and be happy.

When I have a cheat day where I want taco bell I get two of these:

https://www.fatsecret.com/calories-nutrition/taco-bell/spicy-tostada

Again, macros aren't great, but if my clean eating for the week can't suffer 410 cal, 20g fat, 44g carbs and 12g of protein once in 7 days then I've fucked up somewhere else.

~~Pasta and rice are so low in protein that it wouldn't even compare to these sources listed.~~ Nope! I was wrong! Editing these in!

Pea protein is almost identical cost to whey.

Pea protein on Amazon is $20 for 2.2 lbs: https://www.amazon.com/BulkSupplements-Pea-Protein-Powder-Kilogram/dp/B00RPMMFWM/

Whey protein on Amazon is $24 for 2.2 lbs: https://www.amazon.com/Protein-Isolate-BulkSupplements-kilograms-Unflavored/dp/B00E7IODXQ/

The Pea is a bit cheaper, but the whey has a bit more protein content (27g vs 24g per serving).

So I'd say they're nearly identical in price.

It's a vacuum container. The bottom compartment is for hot soup which keeps the rest of food warm until lunch time.

Zojirushi Classic Bento Vacuum Lunch Jar - SL-GRE18 https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B0016S11VC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_SSJWCb2A64NQM

If you buy a pack of plastic chopping boards and keep them in your room, you can lay a couple of them on the gross counter tops. Then you have a clean (and easy-to-clean) surface to set your food on.

re: the sponge problem, a chainmail scrubber is a good bacteria-resistant alternative, and will last for ages.

​

Whole wheat bread, peanut butter, honey or jelly, bananas.

Maybe the hotel has hot water somewhere? Like a coffee pot you can use? If they do then you could make oatmeal and cup o noodle.

OMG. I forget about electric kettles. Small ones. Let me go find a link. Here is a small 1 liter one on Amazon. Boils hot water in minutes. $10

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BRSY7SU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_Ixd1DbVYRD5GA

There is also the dash mini griddle. Makes one egg it's so small. $12

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07SM1WFJN/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_FDd1Db249SHQ8

I'd hide both of these items from house keeping, but they would get some hot food into you.

Edit: I was wrong in this one. Google says 2 hours only. so you'd need that ice bucket for the eggs. Raw unbroken eggs will keep unrefrigerated just fine for some days.

Yes! I have this rice cooker for reference. I do about a cup of steel cut oats, any salt/cinnamon/fruit/whatever I'm adding, then fill with water almost to the top. Stir it up, turn it on, and check back when the indicator says it's done (usually about 30 minutes). Stirring periodically while it's cooking helps, but isn't absolutely necessary.

This is the way.

I can't believe that this hasn't been said yet...

Tony's Seasoning. I typically agree with its advertisement as being great on everything

Edit: Grammar

HydroFlask is the Yeti of thermoses. Not actually better than anyone else, just priced better than anyone else. Pretty much any vacuum sealed thermos you buy on amazon is going to be comperable to a hydroflask.

I have this one and its awesome. 64 oz thermos for $20. I fill it with ice and mojito in the morning and pour drinks from it all day at the beach. https://www.amazon.com/45-Degree-Latitude-Favorite-Stainless/dp/B014X6GXCK/ref=sr_1_26?keywords=vacuum+growler&qid=1571235991&sr=8-26

edit: Now that I think about it, what would be REALLY cool is an insulated soup jar with a sandwich keeper in the lid.

Second this! Taking supplements isn't always ideal or efficient. Aside from eating more red meat and organ meats, cooking in a cast iron pan is a safe and effective way to get more iron into your system. There is also this Lucky Iron Fish that you can drop into whatever you're cooking and it will deposit iron into it. Pretty cool.

I bring an apple and this slicer/corer for lunch every day. I really like the 16 slice model over the more common 8 slice as I think the smaller pieces are better bite size.

I used this Hamilton Beach one when I was in college https://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-51101BA-Personal-Smoothies/dp/B00KVZ27UA It blends right in the cup, comes with a lid, and the base of the blender has a ridge around the bottom to wrap the cord. It's not the strongest, so if you'll be using frozen fruit, make sure they're small to medium sized pieces. Also, would not recommend it for green smoothies. It doesn't blend spinach or kale very well, so you end up with chunky floating green bits throughout the smoothie.

I had something like this that I found in goodwill when I was college that cooks pasta in the microwave and it was a lifesaver. I was also able to steam veggies in there to make pretty nutritious dinner with nutritional yeast on top.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B010ARBTAW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_VZQoCbHGBBJZG

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00004RFMT/ref=psdc_289857_t3_B0001WN9VO

• Traditional german three rivet design
• Full tang
• 8 inch
• It has a full bolster. That feature is annoying for sharpening, makes it more front heavy but it's reassuring that your fingers won't slip on the cutting edge.

I don't know this particular model, but i know the brand well. I work at a EU based knife retailer. Going by my general knowledge of the brand I have this to add: Zwilling runs most of their knives around 58 HRC, which is average on the lower side. That means you would need to sharpen it more frequent than some other options. But it's also easy to sharpen, easy to touch up and very forgiving. Some knives will just chip just by looking at a chicken bone, this is not one of those knives.

Quite frankly, i'm very surprised how low the price is on amazon. It's drop forged, so not really forged, but still. It's not some laser cut plate steel knife. Though no first hand experience with this line by Zwilling, should be super solid.

These things?!

SweetGourmet Arcor Strawberry Buds Bon Bon Filled Hard Candy, 2Lb https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004QLOFN2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_KLZkBbGMSZ316

The fucking best! But not the smallest bit healthy. Heh.

Jamie Oliver's five ingredient meals

Or, if you want a sampler web version.

I'm sorry for your loss. When I first moved out on my own, this book was extremely helpful:

https://www.amazon.com/Going-Solo-Kitchen-Persuasive-Alone/dp/0375703934

Some basic tips, find creative ways to use leftovers. Roast chicken can become soup, potpie, sandwiches, salads, etc. Waste management is the biggest challenge, don't buy more than you can eat. One of the hardest things to keep fresh are vegetables, consider buying frozen and only heating individual servings.

Here's an easy, cheap dish I really like.

Boil water for pasta, cook pasta per directions on box. This can be any small shape pasta, I use farfalle but anything would work. When you add the pasta to the water, start sauteing some garlic in a pan with olive oil. Add your protein, which can be a can of tuna, some sliced deli ham or turkey, some diced bacon, etc. Get it nice and browned and crispy and add a splash of white wine or lemon juice. Add a quick cooking vegetable - spinach, frozen peas, etc, and a spoonful of capers. Drain the pasta, add to the pan and toss, and you have a tasty full meal.

Best of luck to you

They also "mechanically tenderize" most of their cuts, meaning that you have to cook them "well done" before they're safe to eat.

Edit: Downvote all you want, but you should know about it anyway. It increases the risk of foodborne illness significantly.

Mayo Clinic says that aspartame can be by a factor that triggers migraines:

"Food additives. The sweetener aspartame and the preservative monosodium glutamate (MSG), found in many foods, may trigger migraines."

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/migraine-headache/symptoms-causes/syc-20360201

You want redneck nori rolls? I bought a sushi bazooka and used it to make turkey, broccoli, and cheddar rolls and had a bowl of gravy for dipping them.

For drinks, if you have one of those several gallon drink (something like this https://www.amazon.com/Estilo-gallon-Single-Beverage-Dispenser/dp/B01K0E6UIQ/ ), then fill it with water and add some fruit or something to it. Great ideas are lemon, berries, cucumber, etc. Its refreshing, can always add more water/ice without really needing to add too much more fruit, and helps keep people hydrated if they are drinking alcohol.

There are electric lunchbox steamers this is just an example that come with metal bowls and lids for you to pack your food. When it comes time to heat it up, just add a little water to the heating element, remove lids and plug into the outlet. The amount of water used correlates to how long the steamer will...steam. Once the water is used up it turns off automatically. Used it at my last workplace and it was very handy.

Edit: there are single tier and multi tier options

Read nutrition textbooks. Seriously. It will give you periphery knowledge on the anatomy, physiology, chemistry, biology and food science necessary to learn the nutrition concepts. I used this textbook in my undergrad and thought it was great! You might be able to find some free PDF versions online.

and you can also consult Lifehacker's Will It Casserole?

FYI the reason you're still "surprisingly fit" is your metabolism hasn't slowed down as yet. Check back with us in 2 or 3 years. If you doubt this, ask the older males in your family. Guaranteed, they'll start their response with a grumble and a head shake. It's also the reason they'll smirk and chuckle when you tell them you can eat all that fast food and still be in good shape. Change your eating habits now.

I bought a bento lunchbox on amazon, and I love to make cheaper/less fancy versions of charcuterie plates to take with me (kind of like a lunchable). My favorite is cubed Colby jack cheese + oven roasted turkey or hard salami deli meat + crackers or pretzels + grapes or dried figs. I also usually try to bring some fresh veggies (broccoli, carrots, bell peppers) and either ranch or hummus to dip in. Other options can be cheez-its, hard boiled eggs, nuts, dates, and sliced apples with peanut butter,

Edit: another favorite of mine is a “pizza” bento box. Pepperoni slices + mozzarella balls/string cheese + red bell peppers + grape tomatoes + sun-dried tomato and basil wheat thins

I know I will get a ton of hate for this, but I LOVE my slap-chop. When you need anything finely chopped/minced this does it so quickly, and you can't cut yourself. Cuisinart CTG-00-SCHP Stainless Steel Chopper https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007TFNSLC/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_aP1XBbFTWASV3

I use evernote as well, it's amazing for recipes!

Here's a tip, On my android tablet (which I use in kitchen regularly), I used to use Evernote food which they got rid of recently. So I found an app called Stay Alive which allows me to select which apps keep the screen on. So I have it set to keep the screen awake when I have evernote open that way I can use my recipes :D.

BTW be proud of yourself you've done a good job!

It’s a spice blend of dried Chile and lime bits. Super delicious on cucumber, jicama, mango, etc.

Depends on where you live. I live in the southern Us and can get it on the regular grocery store. I’ve also gotten it at costco, but their items vary. Maybe try “ethnic” aisle of the grocery store. Or amazon: Tajin Fruit and Snack Seasoning, 5.0 Oz (Pack of 2) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00LWOKC5G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_U6DgFb1Z3149K

You will want the actual Harissa Paste. The dried powder stuff is NOT the same. There is a bug difference in taste and flavor. Also the heat. You can find it on Amazon, Middle Eastern Markets, African Markets etc.

My husband is Tunisian and they eat it even for breakfast so he made sure I knew there is a difference. Lol.

You can add a spoon to Soups, Chili, any sauce based items. You can also spread it on bread with Tuna and capers like my husband.

Side note if get the small cans (size of tomato paste) you can store the rest in the refrigerator for up to a month. Just keep Olive Oil on top.

Here is the brand we use: Dea Harissa Hot Sauce From France 2 Pack Combo 2X4.2 oz (Pack of 2 ) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009QMEX0G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_88RMDbWA4KFPC

Here is the link without all the extraneous tracking Amazon shoves on there (wanted me to use amazon.ca when I am not in Canada, in this case):

https://www.amazon.com/Ecolution-EKPRE-4215-Micro-Pop-Popper-Maker-Qt-Snack/dp/B019HR91W4/

Step 1: Buy these.

Step 2: Fill with favourite yoghurt.

Step 3: Freeze.

Step 4: Enjoy adult Tubes.

where do you get them? I buy my chia seeds on amazon and it's a lot cheaper than whole foods. Is there a place that's even cheaper though? I get 6lbs for $20-$25

These are the ones that I have now

Looks like These may be even cheaper

if you are really concerned about your health then seek therapy regarding being able to use a stove, and learn to cook for yourself. prepackaged foods are not concerned about your health, just your money. the oven is a big one too.

to be a little more helpful i guess: you can technically still 'cook' a lot of stuff in the microwave but not very much. the oven is a pretty big one that you could use for many things as well. a crock pot is amazing, and that is almost like an oven as far as most recipes go. you can make a LOT in a crock pot. you could probably live off a crock pot in a closet lol. almost better than a microwave.

as far as a stovetop, if its the flames / gas / burning that worries you, maybe look into purchasing something like this https://www.amazon.com/Spt-1300-Watt-Induction-Cooktop-Silver/dp/B004CS5VKK for your countertop. it has a coil of copper metal inside that electricity goes through. this does not cause heat though - it just creates a magnetic field near the cooktop. when you put a metal pot on top of the cooktop, it will connect with the magnetic field inside and will heat up the metal cookware (so long as it is a magnetic metal - you may need to buy a pot / pan that is specifically used for induction cooktops to have it work the best). if there is no metal pan on top of the cooktop, there will be no heat, as the electric field cant travel through anything. it's really neat actually.

also, as far as the groceries go, look into stores around you that may offer delivery (where i live, Safeway, Walmart, Target and Whole Foods are some examples of places that have a Pickup AND Delivery service. at the very least you could shop online and they will have your groceries bagged and ready to pickup when you get there. i have a friend that is unable to go grocery shopping at all and has safeway deliver all of his groceries every week to his house, it is very easy.

Got instant pot? Egg bites are a breeze to make for a tiny fraction of Starbucks price, with the added advantage of infinite variety. I use these molds. For my tastes, I use

3 eggs. 1/3C cottage cheese. 1/2C shredded cheese. Assorted veg

Wap t all in a bullet blender and it fills one of the molds. 4 minutes under pressure, 10 minutes slow release. Microwave 30 seconds. This week I had a big spoon of pesto and some slightly elderly spinach. Next batch I will whiz in a bit of chipotle in adobo and some slightly elderly roasted poblano I need to eat up.

These are the boxes I use for freezing my meal portions in. I find one full one is about right for one portion. I have a few bigger ones for larger meals like stew etc.. For meat portions I tend to just use sandwich bags for which I squeeze the air out and then just tie up or reseal, depending upon what type of bag I've accidentally ended up buying last! I have never really had problems with freezer burnt food - as long as you wrap the food up so it's not directly exposed to the freezer then it should be fine in whatever you choose to wrap it in.

I'm a very boring person of habit for my breakfast and lunches so yes, I just make a sandwich for lunch usually, although occasionally I have leftovers/soup or something like that.

I wouldn't exactly class what I do as meal prep. I've never been one for having free weekends so the whole 'spending 6 hours in one go cooking' thing never worked for me. I just kinda cook as I go along depending upon what I fancy that day. I have most of an idea of what I'll be cooking that week but that's probably about it - I just cook what needs using next and whatever I feel like eating. It's not much of a system but it works for me. Basically, I guess the lesson here is to pay attention to your produce and use it as it needs eating!

Don't even waste your time on the stovetop or with the microwave. Just get an air popper: https://www.amazon.com/Presto-04820-PopLite-Hot-Popper/dp/B00006IUWA

Yes, I know it's $20. Yes, I know that's a lot of money on this sub. Go find one at goodwill, they price them around like $5. You will never have to replace it. You will never have to worry about your popcorn being underdone or overdone again. Also, that cup on top is for melting butter so it's hot and ready to pour over the popcorn the moment it's done. These things are really the whole package. As someone who absolutely hates small kitchen appliances and also popcorn, YOU WILL NOT REGRET PURCHASING THIS SMALL KITCHEN APPLIANCE as long as you like popcorn.

I use the Vega Protein and Greens, Berry flavor. I'm not lactose intolerant, I just hate the taste of whey protein, and milky shakes in general. So this is perfect.

Vega also has the more traditional flavors as well if you're still interested in the vanilla/chocolate types.

To gain healthy weight you should look for foods high in protein and healthy fats.

Peanut butter is probably your best option. Get the natural stuff though. Not the over processed junk. Look for peanuts and salt as the ingredients, nothing else (except maybe olive oil).

Eggs. Eggs are a good source of protein and are purpose built for packing on weight just be careful of how many yolks you eat in a day because they can be high in cholesterol.

Almonds, pistachios, and walnuts have protein and good fats.

Milk. Good fats, high calorie.

Eggs, nuts, and milk are all about helping things grow. It's literally what they are for.

Hummus. Good fats

If you will be exercising eat a healthy amount of carbs (it's easy to overdo carbs though) Whole wheat pasta, brown rice, some roasted red potatoes.

I don't eat meats but if you do, try to stick with fish and poultry. Red meat can pack on pounds but will also come with much more cholesterol and saturated fat.

Keep an eye out for trans fats. They are in most fried foods and a lot of imitation cheese products as well as pre-made cakes, cookies, etc. There is really no good amount of trans fats for you to consume. You may get a little here or there but you should try to keep it as absolutely low as possible. That stuff is just awful for your arteries and heart.

This website can help you keep track of the food you eat so you can reach your goals healthfully (there are plenty of others as well like MyFitnessPal) Just set your goal as gaining weight instead of maintain. https://cronometer.com/

Mae Ploy is a highly regarded curry paste and can be found in some groceries in the asian section.

It has much better flavor than the "Thai Kitchen" crap you'll find in most US grocery stores. Also, it holds in the fridge for numerous months and you only use a few tablespoons (I like it hot!) per dish.

I buy mine on amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/Newmans-Own-Organics-Green-Count/dp/B00GPUEYDI/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1530451076&sr=8-1&keywords=newmans+own+green+tea = 240 bags for $17 = 7cents a cup.

https://www.amazon.com/Celestial-Seasonings-Herbal-Sleepytime-Count/dp/B000E65OF6/ref=pd_sbs_325_2?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B000E65OF6&pd_rd_r=QZRH6NX5DDJDHRQRA4JY&pd_rd_w=FNjWH&pd_rd_wg=LefDc&refRID=QZRH6NX5DDJDHRQRA4JY&th=1 = $15 for 120 = 12.5 cents per cup.

No!

If your slow cooker will not boil water, do not cook beans in it!

Some beans like kidney beans need to be boiled for a few minutes at least to kill off certain anti nutrients that can make you very sick. I have personally experienced this. 3 days of horrible cramping and diarrhea. Do not recommend.

Also if you're just a single person, I'd recommend the $59 instant pot. Its more than big enough for 1 or 2 people.

It's totally worth it to buy a tortilla press if you are going to make this a regular thing. https://www.amazon.com/Victoria-Tortilla-Pataconera-Original-Colombia/dp/B00HWEIKZO/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1521070789&sr=8-2&keywords=cast+iron+tortilla+press&dpID=411GS7Ak-kL&preST=_SY300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch EDIT: If you get REALLY into it you might want a serving dish to keep them warm. something like this: https://www.amazon.com/Norpro-1065-Tortilla-Keeper/dp/B000PB30BU/ref=sr_1_8?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1521121309&sr=1-8&keywords=tortilla+warmer&dpID=41p0Vk4hZBL&preST=_SY300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch

A new favorite in our part-time-vegetarian household is Cheesy Cream of Cauliflower Soup with leek and rye croutons. It's from "One Pan, Two Plates: Vegetarian Suppers".

• 3 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 slices seeded rye bread, strongest flavor you can get, cubed
• White part of 1 leek, sliced thin
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1/2 head cauliflower, chopped
• 1/2 tsp fennel seeds
• kosher salt
• 2 cups veg broth
• 1/2 cup half and half
• 2 Tbsp flour
• 1/2 cup grated strong cheddar cheese, more for garnish
• A few drops of lemon juice
• pinch cayenne pepper
• chives, minced, for garnish

In small dutch oven, stock pot, or deep cast iron skillet, toast the bread cubes in 1 Tbsp of butter, remove to plate with plenty of breathing room so it remains crispy while cooling. Leave crumbs in pot.

Saute leek, celery, cauliflower, fennel seeds, and a pinch of salt in the remaining butter, until veggies begin to soften on edges. Recommend starting the celery alone first, as it takes the longest to soften.

Add broth and half-and-half and simmer until veggies are tender. 10-20 mins.

Toss the grated cheese in the flour. The flour keeps the cheese from clumping and lets it melt in neater, and adds a little thickness to the soup.

Turn up the heat and stir in the floured cheese in, a bit at a time.

Once cheese is integrated (no more visible clumps), turn the heat down, add lemon juice, cayenne, salt, and pepper to taste. Garnish with croutons, more cheese, and chives.

Use the strongest-flavored seeded rye bread you can get (we found the Udi's rye gluten-free bread was for some reason spectacular in this application), and use a good strong cheddar rather than pre-grated bagged stuff. Go easy on the cayenne unless you like heat.

You probably need more protein than that meal has, especially if you're active at all. Drinking a glass of milk here and there could help, and adding some lentils or other beans to your soup. Also, there's probably a lot cheaper meat than shrimp.

https://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/protein

Babies need about 10 grams a day. School-age kids need 19-34 grams a day. Teenage boys need up to 52 grams a day. Teenage girls need 46 grams a day. Adult men need about 56 grams a day. Adult women need about 46 grams a day (71 grams, if pregnant or breastfeeding)

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004NRLAVY/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1

Literally the base of every single meal I eat. Add canned chicken, Rotel, and Valentina hot sauce and you have a Mexican meal. Do tuna, kimchi, and sriracha and you have a Southeast Asian meal.

Both options are a million times better if you already have a spice stash handy. If not, you can buy those premade seasoning packets on Amazon in something like taco or chow mein flavor or something.

I like to replace a lot of the sugar-filled desserts that I love with no-added-sugar "healthy" versions. Some examples:

• Plain Greek yogurt mixed with peanut butter powder (I use PB&Me No Sugar Added)
• Cacao powder mixed with canned pumpkin, either microwaved or eaten cold
• Sugar free, fat free jello pudding. I like using almond milk to save calories then amping up the flavour by adding peanut butter powder or cacao powder
• Oatmeal replaces a lot of desserts for me. I'll do mix ins like chopped apples with cinnamon, sliced bananas with almond butter, blueberries with maple syrup or canned pumpkin with almond butter or peanut butter
• Sugar free gelatin. I make my own with beef gelatin and then flavoured/sweetened water enhancers like these Kool Aid ones or tea

https://www.amazon.com/Trader-Joes-Everything-Sesame-Seasoning/dp/B06W9N8X9H/

That's where we got it from. But, we are making a trek to the closest Trader Joes in a couple weeks (Portland, about 2 hour away).

Just buy the cheese powder from Amazon. 4-5 Tablespoons of this, two tablespoons of butter/margarine, and 1/4 cup of milk, toss with 1/2 pound of pasta (I like Barilla Pipettes, but any old elbow or shell will do):

https://www.amazon.com/Hoosier-Hill-Farm-Cheddar-Cheese/dp/B00B0GGABG

It's also great on popcorn.

Even smaller is one like this. Just being able to hear water or make a soup is huge for cheap food. Thrift stores or garage sales have dirt cheap pots and kitchen utensils all the time. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0009PUR5E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_1TGzDbWBRF80Q

I bought a hand/immersion blender a year ago (like this one: https://www.amazon.com/KOIOS-Powerful-Hand-Blender-Speed/dp/B07FLXP15V/ref=sr_1_6_acs_ac_1?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1543090576&sr=1-6-acs&keywords=hand+blender) and have been making my own vegetable soups with it ever since, they're always delicious!

I saute chopped onions, whatever spices I want, and chopped veggies in butter in a big pot. I've used pretty much every vegetable you could think of and have never had a bad result, but one thing I'll add to almost every soup is at least one potato to make it creamy. Once the veggies are a bit browned/soft I add a splash of veggie broth or water and cover and let simmer, checking every 5-10 minutes to see if the veggies have softened enough to blend or if I need to add a bit of liquid. Once all the veggies are soft enough I blend it all up right in the pot and season with salt and pepper and voila!

Here are some combos I love:

• Beets, one potato, big chunk of grated ginger. Garnished with greek yogurt sauce.
• Cubed butternut squash, 1 potato, 1 sweet potato, nutmeg. Garnished with pumpkin seeds.
• Tomatoes, cauliflower, basil, lots of butter!
• Zucchini, a few dollops of sour cream, 1 potato.

This makes a creamy, blended soup and not a broth-y soup with solid elements so you have to not mind the texture but it's super easy, cheap, and easy to freeze and then thaw later. I've got like 5 blended veggie soups in my freezer right now to rotate. Plus much easier to clean than a big blender and less dishes!

I'd recommend tracking your diet using something like Cronometer to make sure you're getting all of the nutrients you need. I'm kind of surprised not many people have recommended making sure you get your fruit and veggies; frozen/canned is almost always cheaper, but watch out for sugar in preserved fruits.

If you feel it will take longer than a week I would look to just purchase a temporary <$100 mini fridge from Walmart and add it's expense to your insurance claim.

Or live off oatmeal, rice and tuna for a week.

I just bought this one for myself today on Amazon. Seems like a killer deal $78.50 normally $235.

Instant Pot IP-DUO60 7-in-1 Programmable Pressure Cooker, 6Qt/1000W, Stainless Steel Cooking Pot and Exterior, Latest 3rd Generation Technology https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FLYWNYQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_a4nwwbWE4BTXC

Now I just need to learn how to use it

Yes!! Well my family would buy cute ones from Asian markets that would have cartoon characters and buttons for different flow levels. But I found one that’s a little more plain on amazon

SUNPENTOWN 26lbs Rice Dispenser https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000PSB4S4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_PPM9DbBGZ7ENM

Manifold Destiny

A great cookbook for those who like to cook while they're driving.

https://www.amazon.com/Manifold-Destiny-Guide-Cooking-Engine/dp/1416596232/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1529519097&sr=1-1&keywords=manifold+destiny+cookbook

We are not vegetarian, but I do think that plant-based is are a good place for kids to start. we've had a lot of luck with Mollie Katzen's books. The youngest likes Pretend Soup and my daughter likes Honest Pretzels.

Also, while I do think kids should learn how to use a knife, if your kids are like my 4yo who would lose a finger or an eye within 30 seconds, these are great.

Honestly,

Try some pedialyte.

It’s already flavored. Maybe like.. two sleeves to a gallon

Pedialyte Electrolyte Powder, Electrolyte Drink, Variety Pack, Powder Sticks, (6 Count of 0.6 Oz Packets) 3.6 Oz, Pack of 4 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079L81VK5/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_DN77W73T3XX4JXC2VQNQ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

I’d stay away from koolaid in general

I also love coffee and thanks! :) I also like it with soymilk or almondmilk so if you are into those (or probably any other dairy substitute - coconut would probably be delicious) definitely try it. If you like it cold like me then it's just a simple mix with a spoon and wait a few minutes for it to dissolve.

Worst case you end up using them like regular coffee. They definitely aren't half bad for how convenient they are. My favorite is their dark roast Italian. I just grab a couple packs of 8 from the local store every now and then

Just last month I bought another case(my second) of Bumble Bee solid white albacore. Price has gone up quite a bit, but I got it for around $24(~$1/can - cheapest local is $1.50). It was from Amazon itself, not a third party seller. Also (impulsively) bought a case of V8 cans(24x 11.5oz) for like $8, but that stuff has so damn much sodium I don't even want to drink it.

Wow yeah this is a lot of dedication and waste. May I recommend these types of containers? They are cheap, BPA free, airtight and reusable. I have had no problems with freezer burn and my lunchboxes are spotless.

OH MY GOD THIS IS EXACTLY WHAT I AM LOOKING FOR. Thank you so so much. I'll have to keep an eye out for them. If I don't see them in store I did find them on Amazon.

I checked this book out from the library and loved itNot Your Mother's Make-Ahead and Freeze Cookbook So many great ideas and recipes. It really changed how I cook now. It is so nice to throw something in the fridge for dinner the night before, get home and put the enchiladas in the oven while the rice cooks.

Pick up one of these and you'll always use the oldest eggs first.

https://www.amazon.com/Toplife-Skelter-Dispenser-Storage-Display/dp/B06XVFQTW4?keywords=wire+egg+storage&qid=1534733820&sr=8-7&ref=mp_s_a_1_7

You will want the actual Harissa Paste. The dried powder stuff is NOT the same. There is a bug difference in taste and flavor. Also the heat. You can find it on Amazon, Middle Eastern Markets, African Markets etc.

My husband is Tunisian and they eat it even for breakfast so he made sure I knew there is a difference. Lol.

You can add a spoon to Soups, Chili, any sauce based items. You can also spread it on bread with Tuna and capers like my husband.

Side note if get the small cans (size of tomato paste) you can store the rest in the refrigerator for up to a month. Just keep Olive Oil on top.

Here is the brand we use: Dea Harissa Hot Sauce From France 2 Pack Combo 2X4.2 oz (Pack of 2 ) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009QMEX0G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_88RMDbWA4KFPC

Curry is surprisingly easy to make!

• 2 tablespoons green curry paste <--This one is freaking amazing
• 1 can coconut milk
• protein of your choice
• vegetables of your choice
• rice

Brown the protein. Add green curry paste, coconut milk, and vegetables. Simmer until the vegetables are done. Pour over cooked rice. The whole thing takes less than 30 minutes and requires no "instinct," and hardly any skill.

I have a silicone garlic tube. Stick garlic in, roll on counter, and the peel comes off and it’s really ready to pop in a garlic press. Changed my life

Edit: here’s an example of one on amazon https://www.amazon.com/Garlic-Peeler-Silicone-Multiple-Phthalate/dp/B0117Z15PK

This book: https://www.amazon.com/Made-Office-Kettle-Toaster-Microwave/dp/0711238219/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1535831019&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=made+in+the+office+cookbook

The first time I made eggs Florentine in the office half of my colleagues commented on how it had never crossed their mind to make something like that. To be honest, it had never crossed mine either. Aside from the recipes in the book I've found that it's given me hundreds of other ideas for meals that wouldn't have crossed my mind before.

I buy Protein Plus peanut flour and the ingredients are literally just dry roasted peanuts.

I add a little salt on my own.

I know this will probably get lost/buried but my favorite cook book is Cooking Light Fresh Food Fast. Not every recipe has cheap ingredients, but most do. And most are ready in half an hour or so with ingredient prep. Bonus, most dishes are paired with a side like a salad or a bread or veggie.

My favorite is the chipotle salsa meatloaf with country herb green beans. Because who doesn't like a healthy meatloaf (worst thing in it is ketchup) and mustardy microwave steamed green beans.

There are a decent amount of vegetarian friendly dishes. There is a whole section for meatless mains.

**I don't know why Amazon has this listed for $40 I know it was way cheaper when I purchased it...

Another desert dweller here telling you an air fryer is amazing in the heat. I had chicken sausage, baked potatoes and steamed green beans for dinner last night with just my airfryer and this little thing. I can cook & reheat most of my meals between those two things without turning on my oven or range.

I also love my instant pot for big batches of food prep like black beans, rice, quinoa, spaghetti and chicken. It does release steam when it’s done— so I typically only use it in the morning once or twice a week before it gets too hot... but then I have several staples for the week that only need a microwave to reheat!

First, get a good persian cook book: https://www.amazon.com/Food-Life-Ancient-Persian-Ceremonies/dp/193382347X/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1540326251&amp;sr=8-2&amp;keywords=new+food+for+life

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My wife puts a couple tbls spoons of Rose Water in our water container, and we drink that. No sugar, and its delicious.

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Buy Tumeric. Costco sells Tumeric pills for like $30/50 pills. You can buy it cheap.

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Dried Mint and dried Shallots. Use the dried mint crumbled in your yogurt. Let the dry shallows soak in warm water, then chop, put in yogurt for a delicious dip.

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Have you tried this stuff? You can add it to jicama, cucumbers, or even fruit like watermelon or pineapple (yes I read that you don't like fruit but this changes the flavor a bit) to give it a savory/spicy taste.

Do you have a microwave? I have a silicone popcorn popper and it works really well. Makes nice and fluffy popcorn with no oil.

As others have noted, brown rice has a better nutritional profile than white rice. What it also has, unfortunately, is significantly more arsenic.

http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/magazine/2015/01/how-much-arsenic-is-in-your-rice/

I did not have ranch or blue cheese in this recipe. What you choose to dip it in is up to you.

Here is a healthy dipping sauce you can use that is still pretty cheap.

For the Germans here: you can use the App GrünZeit to see which vegetable/fruit is in season and how much they stress the climate(split in 3 categories) in the requested month.

Edit: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=net.markenwerk.apps.vzhs.gruenzeit Google Play store link.

Extra fact: it's made by the consumer advice center from Schleswig-Holstein, so I guess it's very reliable.

I highly recommend this...Hamilton Beach Dual Breakfast Sandwich Maker (25490) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00N3L2DMG/.

I make myself a two egg and cheese sandwich every weekday morning with one. I put the English muffin in the toaster, crack one egg in each compartment of the maker and set a timer for 2 min 30 sec. The English muffin finishes at the same time as the eggs and then I just butter the muffin, put the egg on, cheese and then wrap in tin foil to melt the cheese. For spices I use salt, black pepper and everything bagel seasoning. Very yummy and fast.

I'm using these

Love them so far. My kids do too. Way better than giving them GoGurts.

I buy tough meat - I like saving money. Around here we get brisket and pork shoulder for around $2 per lb. Things that I've done to cook: BBQ (of course), braising, curing, grinding, pressure cooking, sous vide, stitching (or Jaccard-ing). Pork loin isn't that tough but it's also usually $2 per lb and I do all the above to it, too.

If you need it quick, cut it into steaks, hit it with the Jaccard and grill it. Make sure to grill it well done for safety. It will be an odd kind of "tender-dry" so a sauce is good.

https://www.amazon.com/Meat-Tenderizer-Tool-Stainless-Tendering/dp/B076CHQV7Z/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1525784364&amp;sr=8-1-spons&amp;keywords=jaccard+meat+tenderizer+48+blade&amp;psc=1

Thankfully that is pretty much a myth that has been debunked. The diuretic effect of caffeine is not so high that the volume of liquid you intake with it is offset.

I like glass for storage. Costco has a great set that is pretty cheap.

A salad spinner I used to think they were a joke but they seriously cut your prep time down and salads last much longer when properly dried.

A quality kitchen scale.

Since you're cooking alone, I cannot recommend more a colander that supports itself. They have ones with extendable arms that extend past the sink, but I have this one: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00QYCCR0E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_tuknDbE4S7CKP

And oh my god has it been a life saver.

Just read the directions on the package. Brown rice is hard to turn to mush, easier to undercook though so it requires typically double the water compared to white rice.

BTW my grandma is Japanese so the comment below about freezing rice is super underrated. You should make a lot of rice and after it's cooked and cooled, portion out single serving sized balls of it onto some plastic wrap and wrap and then freeze. When you want a serving or two of rice just grab the balls and microwave with a bit of water in a microwavable steamer bowl. It will taste just as good as when you made it and you can store lots of it.