In today’s fast-paced world, takeaways have become a popular choice for many people who are constantly on the go. However, the cost of takeaways can quickly add up, leaving you with a significant dent in your wallet. But what if you could make your own takeaways at home, saving money while still enjoying the convenience of a quick meal? In this article, we’ll explore how you can make your own takeaways and save a tonne of cash in the process.
Plan your meals ahead of time
The first step to making your own takeaways is to plan your meals ahead of time. Take some time at the beginning of each week to plan out what meals you will be making. This will help you to know exactly what ingredients you need to buy, and you can take advantage of any deals or offers that are available.
Invest in good quality cooking equipment
Having good quality cooking equipment will make the process of making your own takeaways much easier and more enjoyable. Invest in a good quality wok, non-stick frying pan, and a steamer. These items will allow you to cook a wide range of dishes quickly and easily.
Learn some basic cooking techniques
Knowing some basic cooking techniques will help you to create delicious and healthy takeaways at home. Learn how to stir-fry, steam, and bake. These techniques will allow you to cook a wide range of dishes quickly and easily.
Experiment with new ingredients and flavors
One of the best things about making your own takeaways is that you can experiment with new ingredients and flavors. Try out different spices, herbs, and vegetables to create unique and delicious dishes. This will help to keep your meals interesting and prevent you from getting bored with your home-cooked meals.
Use fresh and healthy ingredients
When making your own takeaways, it’s important to use fresh and healthy ingredients. Avoid using processed foods, which are often high in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats. Instead, opt for fresh vegetables, lean meats, and whole grains.
Batch cook and freeze meals
Batch cooking is a great way to save time and money when making your own takeaways. Cook large quantities of your favorite dishes and freeze them in portions. This will allow you to have a quick and easy meal ready whenever you need it.
Keep your pantry well-stocked
Having a well-stocked pantry is essential when making your own takeaways. Make sure you have a good supply of spices, herbs, oils, and sauces. This will allow you to create a wide range of dishes without having to go to the store every time you need a specific ingredient.
Embrace leftovers
Leftovers are a great way to save time and money when making your own takeaways. Instead of throwing away leftover food, use it to create a new meal. Leftover rice can be turned into fried rice, while leftover chicken can be used in a stir-fry.
Choose simple recipes
When making your own takeaways, it’s best to choose simple recipes that don’t require too many ingredients or complicated cooking techniques. This will not only save you time, but it will also help you to avoid unnecessary expenses.
Cook in bulk
Cooking in bulk is another great way to save money when making your own takeaways. You can prepare larger portions of your favorite dishes and freeze them for later use. This is especially useful for busy weeknights when you don’t have time to cook.
Buy in bulk
When buying ingredients for your homemade takeaways, consider buying in bulk. This is particularly useful for items that you use frequently such as rice, pasta, and canned goods. Buying in bulk can save you money in the long run, as you’ll be paying a lower price per unit.
Repurpose ingredients
Another way to save money when making your own takeaways is to repurpose ingredients. For example, if you have leftover roast chicken, you can use it to make a chicken and vegetable stir-fry. This will help you to use up ingredients that might otherwise go to waste.
Use online recipes
The internet is a great resource for finding new and exciting recipes. There are countless recipe websites and blogs that offer free recipes and cooking tips. By using online recipes, you can save money on cookbooks and magazines, and you’ll have access to a wider range of recipes.
Shop at ethnic grocery stores
If you’re looking for affordable ingredients for your homemade takeaways, consider shopping at ethnic grocery stores. These stores often carry a wider range of spices, herbs, and vegetables, and their prices are often lower than mainstream supermarkets.
Pack your own lunches
Another way to save money on takeaways is to pack your own lunches. This is particularly useful if you work outside of the home or if you’re a student. By packing your own lunch, you can save money on expensive takeout meals and you’ll have more control over the ingredients that you consume.
Make your own sauces and dressings
Another way to save money when making your own takeaways is to make your own sauces and dressings. This is often cheaper than buying pre-made versions from the grocery store, and you can customize the flavors to your liking. For example, you can make your own marinade for grilled meats, or a simple vinaigrette for salads.
Experiment with spices and herbs
Spices and herbs can add a lot of flavor to your homemade takeaways, and they’re often much cheaper than buying pre-packaged seasoning blends. Experiment with different spices and herbs to find the flavors that you enjoy the most. You can also buy larger quantities of spices and herbs from ethnic grocery stores to save money.
Use cheaper cuts of meat
When making your own takeaways, you don’t always need to use expensive cuts of meat. Cheaper cuts of meat, such as chicken thighs or pork shoulder, can be just as flavorful when cooked properly. Slow-cooking or marinating these cuts can help to tenderize them and bring out their natural flavors.
Don't be afraid of leftovers
Leftovers can be a great way to save money when making your own takeaways. You can use leftover meats, vegetables, and grains to make new meals throughout the week. For example, you can use leftover grilled chicken to make a chicken and vegetable stir-fry the next day.
Plan your meals ahead of time
Planning your meals ahead of time can help you to save money and reduce food waste. Take some time each week to plan out your meals and create a grocery list. This will help you to avoid impulse buys at the grocery store and ensure that you have all the ingredients you need to make your homemade takeaways.
In conclusion, making your own takeaways is a great way to save money while still enjoying delicious and convenient meals. By choosing simple recipes, cooking in bulk, and shopping at ethnic grocery stores, you can save money on ingredients. Using online recipes, packing your own lunches, and repurposing ingredients can also help you to save money on takeaways. With a little planning and preparation, you can make your own takeaways that are just as tasty as those from your favorite restaurants, but at a fraction of the cost.
