How to Be More Self-Sufficient in the Kitchen Right Now

What Does it Mean to Have a Self-Sufficient Kitchen?

Well, first let’s demystify the term “self-sufficient.” It’s like turning your kitchen into a well-oiled machine with superpowers. (And maybe even some superfoods!)

Self-reliance in your kitchen turns it into the absolute powerhouse of your home. And from there, you’re able to handle anything that comes your way.

But that’s just the beginning.

Having a self-sufficient kitchen is all about building sustainable practices & Grade A habits. It doesn’t mean that you won’t have to work. Nor does it mean that you’ll always enjoy being in the kitchen. But a well prepared & well-stocked kitchen are the tools that enable you to be independent of outside systems.

Yes, we all want the insurance that comes with not having to worry about meals. But, more than that, we need to be sure we are preparing ourselves just as much as our pantries.

Mastering Self-Reliance in the Kitchen

Being self-reliant is what’s going to separate you from everyone else. Trust me.

So many families are dependent on systems like big box stores for household items. Grocery chains for food. Gas stations for fuel. And utility companies for things like electricity, water and more.

But you’re different. And you wanna know how I already know this?

Because you’re here. You’re looking for knowledge and tools that will equip you to be different. You want something more. You want something different.

When you start becoming self-sufficient, the desire spreads like wildfire.

No longer are you relying on takeout or pre-packaged meals as much. Instead, you’re the chef in command, creating delicious dishes from scratch effortlessly. Even if you don’t like being in the kitchen!

3 Reasons Why You Should be Self-Reliant in the Kitchen

1. Empowerment & Independence: Being self-reliant in the kitchen empowers you to take control of your meals and what goes in them. Confidently preparing your own food also allows you to tailor your meals to your preferences or needs. And you don’t have to try making complicated meals as if you were cooking for a Michelin star restaurant. Just be the awesome home cook I know you already are. (Even if you’re still microwaving your way to nutrition for now.)
2. Financial Savvy: So, this may be one of the biggest reasons women end up putting more effort into their kitchens/food. Learning to be self-reliant in the kitchen can contribute to significant financial savings. Planning your meals, sticking to shopping lists, using food you have on-hand, buying in bulk, getting creative with leftovers, learning to stock & preserve things… The list goes on. But these tips will keep more money in your pocket because you’ll stop the bleed of regular carryout. Talk about being in control.
3. Health and Well-being: And probably the biggest reason to increase your kitchen independence is health. When you’re in charge of your kitchen, you have the power to make healthier food choices. This means you can choose the best of the best of the best your dollar can afford & love it. Not only can you control what goes in, but you can control the portion size too. Being self-sufficient in the kitchen opens the door for you to prioritize wholesome, balanced meals. Besides, who doesn’t want to skip the junk of additives?

How to Craft a Recession-Proof Kitchen

Ok, so let’s explore some budget-friendly tricks to keep your kitchen rocking, no matter what happens in society. (Or in your neighborhood for that matter.)

Tips for a Self-Sufficient Kitchen:

1. Cook Like the Pro of Your Home

Experiment with new cooking techniques. Do you know how to saute, broil, or chop effectively? Learn the fundamentals first.

Then get on with mastering a few basic dishes so you can conquer hunger on your terms. I don’t mean trying fancy recipes that take 5 hours & 3 arms to impress your mother-in-law. This is all about learning to meet your most basic need in easy ways that will keep you coming back to the kitchen again and again. Nourishment should be your focus, simplicity your vehicle.

2. Budget-Friendly Cooking

Plan your meals. Shop your pantry, fridge & freezer. Then make a shopping list of the critical missing items so you can avoid impulse buying. And the biggest takeaway, Buy in bulk when possible to save money in the long run.

If you don’t know what meals to plan, then start a food journal. Take note of each meal you eat for 3 days, or 3 weeks. However long you can remember although the longer, the better. You’ll start to see a pattern. Use that on a rotation because obviously, those are foods or meals you enjoy eating. And btw, you should absolutely keep track of the foods you eat out. We can learn to recreate better versions at home & save you money.

3. Sustainable Swaps:

Use reusable containers instead of plastic wrap. Use beeswax wraps (that maybe you even made yourself!) And opt for cloth napkins instead of disposable ones. The same goes for reusable cleaning tools or kitchen cleaners too!

4. Waste Less, Save More:

Get creative with leftovers to reduce food waste. There are websites & books that specifically help you reimagine your leftovers.

And if they’re a little too far gone, start composting! It’s like giving back to the Earth. And don’t worry if you don’t have a use for the compost, yet. You can drop it off at a farmer’s market, a neighbors or ….start using it to make an herb garden in your windowsill.

Conclusion:

Congratulations!

You’re well on your way to greater independence, sustainability, & a healthier recession-proofed kitchen. All you need to do is keep experimenting, cooking & having fun in your kitchen adventures.

Don’t be hard on yourself thinking you have to have all of this sorted by a certain date.

Take things slow. Allow the learning to marinate. Enjoy the process & the journey as it unfolds.

You’ve got this, lovely.