Here is a great little idea to reduce the cost of feeding your family.
I write frequently about eating out. This is because most people eat out more often then they should in regard to their budget. I am no different. I grew up in new York City, home of some of the best restaurants and even fast food places in the country. I also like the social aspect of eating out. You can get together with family and friends, spend time together and try something different.
So back to my idea. Instead of eating out, why not schedule several pot lucks through the year? You’ll save money, and get to retain the best aspects of eating out: the socializing and the opportunity to try new dishes that you didn’t have to cook yourself.
Here is how it works.
Get a group of friends together who are all interested in the idea. Decide where you will meet. Of course you can meet in someone’s home, by why not a park, the local community center or some other “out” location?
Each person brings a dish to share, and if you have friends who tend to make large amounts of food, one person could bring the dinnerware instead.
This gives you a great alternative to eating out. Plus, I’m sure there will be plenty of leftovers to share.
You can make the group as large or as small as what works for you. You can even do themes, such as an Indian meal, foods that all begin with “c,” etc. This adds a little spice to your gathering.
I estimate that you can easily provide a dish that serves 10 people for under $10 without even blinking. Creating the same size meal following some frugal rules with cost you between $2 and $5, so you see how much less expensive a potluck party is compared to eating out!
You can read more blog posts by Mary Ann Romans here!
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