With Christmas not long gone, you might think you never want to see another roast. If only for the cost. However, a Sunday roast is a great tradition, and you can cut the cost of a grand meal like the traditional carvery with some simple but very effective techniques in your kitchen.
Use Cheaper Cuts of Meat
Chicken and pork are very versatile and make a perfect Sunday roast or special dinner. But they can become boring. Sometimes, you want something more succulent, like lamb or beef. But these are, of course, rather expensive. However, there are cheaper cuts you can use that won’t break the bank and will easily feed many people. Just see this sirloin tip roast recipe that will definitely change your mind. You can even cut a joint in half and freeze one for another day.
Buy Frozen Vegetables
When you are cooking a grand meal for a special occasion or a family get-together, you want to spend time with your guests rather than slaving away in the kitchen. And that means reducing the amount of time peeling spuds, slicing onions, and de-podding peas. Fortunately, some frozen vegetables are just as good as fresh, if not better. Veggies like parsnips, peas, and even broccoli can be purchased frozen and still taste great with a pinch of salt and a knob of butter.
Slash the Cost of a Grand Meal with Prep
Of course, there are some vegetables that will require you to work some magic in the kitchen. While it is cheaper to buy some frozen vegetables, try not to buy pre-prepared fresh vegetables. These are typically far more expensive, and you get much less. For example, you can get a whole bag of carrots cheaper than a small box already chopped. And they won’t taste as good, either. And the same goes for potatoes. For some veggies, fresh is better and goes further.
Use the Oven Wisely
As if a large family meal isn’t already expensive enough now have the added worry of the gas and electricity cost. While it is sometimes worth splashing out, you shouldn’t have to worry about energy these days. But this is the world we now live in. Fortunately, you can reduce the cost by using the oven well. For example, don’t cook one thing at a time. Pop your roast potatoes in with the meat. And reuse any hot water you cooked the veggies in for a tasty gravy.
Ditch the Alcohol
Most families will serve a traditional meal with alcohol, such as red or white wine, to go with the meat. However, these are becoming increasingly expensive and will only add to your overall bill. On average, alcohol at a dinner party can account for almost 30% of the cost. Therefore, it makes sense to just ditch the alcohol. However, if people want alcohol, simply request that they bring their own. You shouldn’t have to pay for their drinks as well as their massive meal too.
Summary
There are a few nifty ways to slash the cost of a grand meal to save some money. You can use cheaper cuts of meat, cut out pre-prepared vegetables, and ask people to bring their own wine.
