Convenience often trumps craftsmanship in the kitchen. However, there are a number of foods that you can make at home instead of buying, not only to save money but also to ensure you’re consuming healthier, fresher ingredients.
Bread
Baking bread at home can be a rewarding and therapeutic process. With just a few basic ingredients like flour, water, yeast, and salt, you can make a variety of bread, from simple white loaves to more complex sourdoughs.
Yogurt
Making yogurt at home is surprisingly easy. You can start with just milk and a bit of store-bought plain yogurt. Homemade yogurt is not only cheaper but also allows you to control the thickness and tanginess of your preferred yoghurt. You can also ensure that there are no added sugars or artificial flavours, leading to a healthier snack or breakfast option.
Granola
Store-bought granola can often be loaded with sugars and unhealthy fats. Making granola at home allows you to customise the ingredients to your like, using oats, nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. You can also add spices like cinnamon or vanilla extract for extra flavour. Homemade granola is perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Nut Butters
Nut butters like peanut butter, almond butter, or cashew butter are simple to make at home. By blending roasted nuts in a food processor, you can create a creamy and delicious spread without the added sugars and hydrogenated oils found in many commercial brands. You can also experiment with adding flavours like honey, cocoa, or cinnamon.
Salad Dressings
Many store-bought salad dressings are high in sugars, unhealthy fats, and preservatives. Making your dressings at home is quick and allows you to use fresh ingredients. A basic vinaigrette requires just olive oil, vinegar, mustard, and seasoning. You can also experiment with different herbs, citrus juices, and other flavourings to create a variety of dressings.
Hummus
Hummus is a versatile and healthy dip that is easy to make at home. By blending chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil, you can create a creamy and flavourful hummus. Homemade hummus can be customised with additional ingredients like roasted red peppers, olives, or spices to suit your taste.
Tomato Sauce
Making tomato sauce from scratch allows you to control the flavor and consistency of the sauce. Using fresh tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs, you can create a rich and flavorful sauce that is perfect for pasta, pizza, or other dishes. Canning or freezing homemade tomato sauce can also provide you with a supply of sauce for future meals.
Pickles and Ferments
Homemade pickles and fermented foods like sauerkraut or kimchi are not only delicious but also packed with probiotics that are beneficial for gut health. By fermenting vegetables at home, you can control the level of salt and other ingredients, ensuring a healthier product.
Making these foods not only provides healthier and tastier options but also offers a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment. With a little effort and some basic ingredients, you can transform your kitchen into a hub of culinary creativity, producing foods that are superior to their store-bought counterparts.
