START A PANTRY ON A BUDGET | WALMART VS. DOLLAR TREE HAUL | KITCHEN PANTRY BASICS

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  • Опубліковано 6 лют 2025
  • In this video, we're going to be talking about starting a kitchen pantry on a budget. We'll be comparing Walmart and Dollar Tree, and highlighting some of the key items you'll need to start storing in your pantry.
    If you're looking to start cooking from scratch and saving money, then this video is for you! We'll be comparing the costs of starting a kitchen pantry from both Walmart and Dollar Tree, and highlighting some of the key items you'll need. From staples like canned goods to more popular items like spices, this video will help you start stocking your kitchen with the basics so you can cook delicious meals without spending a fortune!
    Flour
    Sugar
    Salt
    Pepper
    Oatmeal
    Dried Pasta
    Chicken Broth
    Oil
    Rice
    Dried/canned beans
    Spices
    Baking Powder
    Baking Soda
    Music by Epidemic Sound
    ITEMS MENTIONED/USED IN THIS VIDEO
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    #frugalliving #dollartree #walmarthaul

КОМЕНТАРІ • 476

  • @lucindapick2986
    @lucindapick2986 Рік тому +96

    There's a cookbook called, "Help! My Apartment has a kitchen!" It's written by a mother and her son when he went off to college. It includes basic foods and equipment as well as good starter recipes and others to try as your skills improve. Also, the 4 ingredient cookbook gives them a nice basis until beginners learn what spices they like and how to flavor things from scratch.

  • @kelseyminor7232
    @kelseyminor7232 Рік тому +86

    One of the best gifts I got for my wedding was a starter pantry in a box! It had all of this and some kitchen tools like a can opener, scissors, bread pan, etc. It was awesome!

    • @lynne3989
      @lynne3989 Рік тому +1

      Where did you get your pantry box?

    • @itsjustme.7059
      @itsjustme.7059 Рік тому

      That is such a great idea.

    • @robinvarnadoe8429
      @robinvarnadoe8429 Рік тому +4

      @@lynne3989 I assume someone purchased the items and put them together in a box and wrapped it as a wedding gift

    • @karengibbs7723
      @karengibbs7723 Рік тому

      My favorite gift to give at a shower is a room specific kit. bridal shower kitchen staples and a large pot or kitchen trash can. Just get the things that you need but don’t think about when you register. No one ever says “what will I do with chocolate chips.” For grad going to college just fill a small trash can with med cabinet necessities and some toilet paper. Never underestimate this as a housewarming.

    • @EmmaHope88
      @EmmaHope88 Рік тому

      @@karengibbs7723 This obviously only works if neither partner had a fully equipped kitchen before. My sister and brother-in-law had a lot of things double when they moved in together, so we were better off just asking them exactly what they still wanted for their wedding which didn't happen until three years after they had moved in together. However, they had just moved into their newly build house a couple of months before their wedding and you tend to have more things in a bigger kitchen than a smaller apartment one.

  • @lucindapick2986
    @lucindapick2986 Рік тому +28

    Stick with me on this: When I saw the title I was like Frugal Fit Mom is like a preacher. You go through lesson after lesson but then it's Christmas and you're like, "Bring out the 3 wisemen!" You've got your standard themes but dammit, we need to hear that lesson again! Why? Because life. We get distracted and Boom! our freezer is stuffed and we need to work our way down to the bottom and find out what that frozen lump in brown paper actually is. Or we eat the same 5 meals over and over because it's summer and our kids are picky and we're just tired and you come along and Boom! 23 sheet pan dinners. Have we seen you start a pantry before, you bet! Am I dying to see who has the best price on rice and beans? Also YES! Because You're amazing! Your lessons are on point and I just can't get enough! Plus, what's in the back of my pantry anyway? Time to find out!

  • @DonnaMSchmid
    @DonnaMSchmid Рік тому +255

    One additional thing I would recommend is a bottle of vinegar. Luckily, white vinegar is relatively cheap, so it won't add much to your total!

    • @notapplicable2636
      @notapplicable2636 Рік тому +16

      *plus white vinegar can also be used as an HE washing machine cleaner too. Just run a load with it in place of the detergent and you're good to go!

    • @Yolindabindaboo
      @Yolindabindaboo Рік тому +13

      Combine white vinegar with the baking soda and you can clean out a stinky or stopped-up drain in your kitchen or bath.

    • @loveGG3
      @loveGG3 Рік тому +2

      @@notapplicable2636 with a load of clothes? Or by itself?

    • @notapplicable2636
      @notapplicable2636 Рік тому +4

      @@Yolindabindaboo oh that's awesome thanks! Is that a possibility to declog a drain at.the same time..?

    • @kimeverhart6253
      @kimeverhart6253 Рік тому +8

      Great idea!! Vinegar is a great addition to any pantry/home!!

  • @carnivore_princess
    @carnivore_princess Рік тому +10

    I volunteer at my local church through St. Vincent de Paul! You really don't know how blessed you are to have food on the table until you see how many families and people need help with food and other things.

  • @courtneyrenegar4329
    @courtneyrenegar4329 Рік тому +93

    I can't really think of anything I would add to your list of pantry basics. But, I think a fun video idea would be "cooking equipment to stock in a first time kitchen". Lots of kids are getting ready to leave for college for the first time, or moving out on their own.

    • @kimeverhart6253
      @kimeverhart6253 Рік тому +1

      Great idea!!

    • @melissamaynell
      @melissamaynell Рік тому

      Ina Garten has an episode on this very subject, however hers may seem a bit unrealistic for the average person. I wonder what Christene recommends?

    • @heatherlynsey3092
      @heatherlynsey3092 Рік тому

      I’ve only been out of the house 6 months and my kitchen appliances are sparse. I’m still saving for a good air fryer and crock pot 😂

    • @theprofessor4914
      @theprofessor4914 7 місяців тому

      I was thinking about this when I saw a nice whisk at the thrift store

  • @astridteeuw2374
    @astridteeuw2374 Рік тому +24

    I would suggest to add tomato paste, peanutbutter , vinegar and maybe mustard. With those you can make all kind of sauces and dressings, and they last a long stretch.

  • @doveandolive1153
    @doveandolive1153 Рік тому +92

    Once the basic pantry is done, our pantry includes, peanut butter, vinegar, canned tuna, dried lentils, dried soup mix, canned tomatoes, and canned tomato paste. This list from there continues to grow🙃
    We're on a journey to reduce the amount of variety i.e. back in the day we started with white vinegar, then added red wine vinegar, and white white vinegar, and balsamic vinegar and rice wine vinegar and herb or fruit infused vinegar 🤣😂 Pantries can get out of control😵‍💫 and we're taking ours back!

    • @kimeverhart6253
      @kimeverhart6253 Рік тому +2

      Haha! I have all those vinegars except the herb infused plus apple cider vinegar and 5% acid canning and cleaning vinegar!! I don’t want to go with any of them! So funny!! 😂🤣😂🥰

    • @doveandolive1153
      @doveandolive1153 Рік тому +1

      @@kimeverhart6253 ❤OMG thank you for admitting I'm not the only one🤣 and yes how could I forget Bragg's apple cider vinegar (yup that's on the shelf too!)- I'll never be forgiven😂 but I draw the line with champagne vinegar !!!🤣😂🤣thanks for sharing the laugh PS I haven't canned (yet) and for cleaning I dilute white wine vinegar 50/50 with water in a spray bottle. Do we have a problem? Do we need to find a support group? Are there may be more out there...cue the X-files music ❤oh darn, I just thought of malt vinegar for French fries. Oh my I do think I have a problem. This is all Christine's fault she started this 🤗

    • @juliatepe5760
      @juliatepe5760 Рік тому +2

      Yep, good additions! Sorry to disappoint you; I only have 2 types of vinegar.

    • @doveandolive1153
      @doveandolive1153 Рік тому +2

      @@juliatepe5760 I'm not disappointed I aspire to more like you !

    • @firequeen2194
      @firequeen2194 Рік тому +2

      I’ve been infusing my own vinegars. Best cleaner for black top stove is a citrus vinegar cleaner. Strawberry scraps to infuse for a fruit vinegar. The options are endless.

  • @darcyrobb3692
    @darcyrobb3692 Рік тому +20

    Another basic is cornstarch, coconut aminos/soy sauce & Worcestershire Sauce.😉🍁🇨🇦

  • @annmariemarin5513
    @annmariemarin5513 Рік тому +9

    Its so refreshing that you're not snobby about Dollar Tree! Its about saving $$$$ !

  • @Fiery154
    @Fiery154 Рік тому +13

    I’m very happy to see CUMIN among the basic spices! It is so over-looked in the US and it is the most popular spice in the world!

    • @Ashleyjohnson397
      @Ashleyjohnson397 Рік тому +2

      I agree! Cumin is my favorite spice! I buy it in bulk!

  • @sarahlangham635
    @sarahlangham635 Рік тому +7

    Corn meal!! If you’re gonna make beans, you need some
    Cornbread 😊

    • @FrugalFitMom
      @FrugalFitMom  Рік тому +1

      That's absolutely true!

    • @dianam9028
      @dianam9028 Рік тому

      I love cornbread, especially jalapeno cornbread 🤤

  • @heathersmeather
    @heathersmeather Рік тому +20

    In a pinch pancake mix works as a thickener in place of flour. I even think it makes a tastier sausage gravy. 🙂

    • @FrugalFitMom
      @FrugalFitMom  Рік тому +3

      Great tip!

    • @rg-mi5hh
      @rg-mi5hh Рік тому +3

      Good idea! Pancakes from sourdough or from plain flour is.good too. It's cheaper.

  • @tf7831
    @tf7831 Рік тому +5

    Christine, love your philanthropic efforts to support those less fortunate and support your community and educate people on how to help those in need. Such an impactful message in almost all of your videos that is so clear to see you are passionate about. We can all affect change!

  • @kimeverhart6253
    @kimeverhart6253 Рік тому +15

    Christine,
    I love the idea of making a starter food pantry and donating it to a food bank. We have a local food pantry that is run through our school and when I go shopping next, I’m taking a list, buying these things and taking this box to the pantry. I think it’s perfect. Thank you for this beautiful idea! 🌟

  • @clairechapin6901
    @clairechapin6901 3 дні тому

    Christine, did you know, if you add a tablespoon of baking soda to the soaking water you leave overnight, rinse them before you cook them. The beans won't be so "magical " it helps with the toot. You can't taste it as long as you don't forget to rinse. Love your style. Watch you every day. Getting a lot of older podcast though 😮.

  • @janetmarieleo7522
    @janetmarieleo7522 Рік тому +43

    Great video for beginners! When our children got their own places, my husband and I did all of their first food shopping including their pantry. We’ve always done things from scratch and I’m happy to say my kids do as well. They even bake. Glad that these are things they remember.. I am reading a cookbook so all of my children and grandchildren could have a copy of all the family recipes from my husband side from my side of grandparents recipes that have been handed down for generations.

    • @loveGG3
      @loveGG3 Рік тому

      My MIL did that with her mother's recipes too. Everyone got a copy so no one could fight over it. (Though there was still plenty of other things for them to fight over.)

    • @earldouglas3631
      @earldouglas3631 Рік тому

      I've loved to cook since age 7 so this was right up my ally. When I got my first apartment in grad school my dad gave me some money and I bought everything I needed.

  • @thetravelerstrunk1274
    @thetravelerstrunk1274 Рік тому +20

    I love having a basic pantry. We usually stock up as much as we can on the basics so when things go crazy we have plenty.

    • @ERSwanger
      @ERSwanger Рік тому +2

      Same here! During tax free time last year I invested about $1k into my food storage and haven't had to invest any money in it all year. This year I will fill in my holes and invest in other things and I'm so thankful we were able to do that! (I worked OT and scrimped and saved to save up for it). It's def helped with inflation

  • @ScrittiSparkle
    @ScrittiSparkle Рік тому +1

    christine ive been watching your channel for a million years,you inspired me to lose weight,i have been losing weight,i hear you in my thoughts just eat fruit,even tinned fruit,i know you eat bread,so i dont restrict bread,i do have ibs and im like so dont go out much at all,but i excersise for about 3 hours a day,6 days a week in my house,i just wanted to thank you for giving me the motavation for losing weight,all my best wishes to you and your family,from line .as in celine dion,its just line

  • @loveyourselfplease6842
    @loveyourselfplease6842 Рік тому +6

    YES thank you. Sometimes we only have $10 or $15 to spend so we need to take the loss per oz & grab the smaller items from Dollar Tree BUT if you can afford to spend a little more & make a couple stops in my humble opinion as long as you're not burning through gas it's worth going to both stores. Sometimes I watch people make these "budget meals" videos & only shop at Dollar Tree & I'm seeing the same items I grabbed in a bigger size for less money at Walmart

  • @pameehanson3866
    @pameehanson3866 Рік тому +17

    Also great suggestion is to have a few recipes and meal ideas add to a basic pantry. This can be set up in a box to give to families in need, loved that you donated these items ❤

  • @kimberleywebbsuddenlyshesp568
    @kimberleywebbsuddenlyshesp568 Рік тому +25

    The first thing my grandmother taught me to cook were beans in a crockpot. It’s still one of my favorite things to cook and eat.

    • @anitaholmes6824
      @anitaholmes6824 Рік тому +1

      Can you tell me how to do that? I have never cooked dry beans before. Thank you!

    • @billkelly3679
      @billkelly3679 Рік тому

      I did that as a poor college student. That, with rice and spices were most of my diet. My roommates hated it. The difference was that I didn't have MasterDad (parent's credit card) at my disposal and had to work.

    • @onomeokpe6313
      @onomeokpe6313 Рік тому +2

      ​@@anitaholmes6824 You can cook black eyed peas, it is also a bean. Pour a bag of like 1lb Walmart brand black eyed peas into a bowl. Then put water inside and wash the bean by packing it from the water until it is to the bottom and pour the remaining water away because some sand or dirt may settle in the bottom. Put the washed beans in a pot and put water and allow to boil for two minutes then drain and put another fresh water and allow to boil for another ten minutes. Taste to see if it is soft and continue boiling on medium heat until it is soft, you can add a little water if it is not soft and the water is drying up. When soft, you can season with salt, any stock powder, onions, a little garlic, onion powder, pepper, you can even add some slices of tomatoes then put like two or three spoons of any cooking oil (I usually use red palm oil I buy from the African food store). Allow to boil for a few minutes and it is done.

    • @anitaholmes6824
      @anitaholmes6824 Рік тому +1

      @@onomeokpe6313 Thank you so very much, that is very helpful and appreciated!

  • @robinguertin574
    @robinguertin574 Рік тому

    When my husband and I got married 34 years ago, my in- laws surprised us with a full pantry. What a thoughtful blessing that was!

  • @Yolindabindaboo
    @Yolindabindaboo Рік тому +13

    Great video to pass along and educate! To expand the basic pantry, I’d add cans of diced tomatoes, a cream of something soup, sweetened condensed milk, broth or stock, bread crumbs and chocolate chips. I’m always relieved that I already have these on hand. :) Please click to keep reading…
    P.S. I’ve been watching your channel for awhile and I wanted to recommend using non-fat plain Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. They taste so similar and GY has tons of protein, waaaaay fewer calories and no fat. Glop a huge dollop on your burrito guilt free! With dips, pile it extra high on your chips! It even bakes well. I love it!

    • @Fiery154
      @Fiery154 Рік тому +4

      I’d been doing this, until I tasted real sour cream again recently, and I’m going back! Especially with my new views on diet. Fat and calories are not the enemy and sour cream is so rich!

    • @ninnymuggins5159
      @ninnymuggins5159 Рік тому +1

      Chocolate chips always get eaten, they never make it into any recipe 🍫

  • @verity1234
    @verity1234 Рік тому +7

    I think it is also valuable to discuss the merits of bulk buys vs these dollar store starters. If you know you will cook from scratch a lot it is more economical to purchase larger bags of flour, sugar, etc... as the per unit cost is lower. But, if you are just starting and unsure you will continue on this path the smaller starter options are a better option. I know the bulk buys aren't always an option when you are living on an extreme budget but if you can swing it they save you in the long run (just like the freezer fills do). For the appliances like air fryers and instant pots you can also check your local garage sales or FB style market places. As Christine mentioned a lot of people have buyers remorse and resell them or in estate clean outs they are often found like new.

  • @valeriederrick2352
    @valeriederrick2352 Рік тому +4

    I like a barley and lentil combination. It's also inexpensive and it cooks more quickly, without an Instantpot. I make a barley and lentil stew/soup in the winter and a barley and lentil salad in the summer. Both delicious!

  • @Jillwillrun
    @Jillwillrun Рік тому +9

    Cute tank, I love the color on you!
    I cook beans in my instant pot and then freeze them in quart bags. And if we decide that we want the beans mashed, for use in burritos or whatever, we just defrost the bag and then smoosh the beans in the bag. It's a fun activity for littler kids to help in meal prep! Now that my kid is entering middle school it's not as entertaining. LOL

    • @ninnymuggins5159
      @ninnymuggins5159 Рік тому +1

      Looking great, Christine💚 And you matched Dollar Tree LOL

  • @leenatoivanen3787
    @leenatoivanen3787 Рік тому +1

    I always keep eggs and frozen paratha on hand. It's usually sold in Asian stores and one pack has like 20 pieces. Fry 2 eggs and 2 paratha and you have a meal right there, for days when you run out of everything else 👍

  • @fintubertalks
    @fintubertalks Рік тому +23

    This is incredibly helpful and practical video! The detailed comparison of Dollar Tree and Walmart prices, along with the thoughtful gesture of donating pantry items to local families in need, showcases your caring and informative approach. I'll be sharing this video with others, as it's not only about saving money on groceries but also making a positive impact on the community. Great job! 👍🏼😊

  • @danniemcdonald7675
    @danniemcdonald7675 Рік тому +2

    This is a great starter pantry. The only thing that I would add (non-food) would be some recipes and kitchen utensils such as spoons, whisk,knives and, of course, a can opener.

  • @andreagrowsthings
    @andreagrowsthings Рік тому +3

    One thing I’ve started doing that I feel saves a little money is making my own brown sugar. It’s just white sugar mixed with molasses (ratio of 1 cup sugar to 1 Tbsp molasses for light/2 Tbsp for dark) so it’s not complicated and I think it tastes better, fresher and I don’t have to buy brown sugar. Obviously I still have to buy molasses but I don’t use that much and it has a good shelf life so I think it’s a savings still (though I’ll admit I’ve not crunched the numbers very hard).
    I’ve also stopped buying bread crumbs and just make my own. Started when I couldn’t find them on the shelves a few years back, and now it seems silly that I used to buy them. :)

  • @ninnymuggins5159
    @ninnymuggins5159 Рік тому +2

    GLUTEN FREE/DAIRY FREE PANTRY: Boxed unsweetened almond milk, canned unsweetened coconut milk, avocado oil, coconut oil, nut butter, fruit and vegetable cans and cups, dairy-free protein powder, gluten-free vegan mac and "cheese", cans of chicken/ tuna/ roast beef, chicken-rice soup, gluten-free pancakes and gluten-free pasta, marinara sauce. Some people are allergic/ sensitive so I hope that helps.

  • @lisapop5219
    @lisapop5219 Рік тому +5

    Louisiana brand hot sauce is essential for me. It covers a multitude of cooking gone wrong and tastes good with cooking gone right too.

  • @cathyshuler8149
    @cathyshuler8149 Рік тому +8

    This is a very good video for people just starting to stock a pantry! My pantry is, admittedly, overloaded (but the pandemic was unsettling)... Pasta sauce (Hunt's in the can is economical (I add spices to it) although I occasionally use Rao's, which is extravagant); Canned tomatoes and tomato sauce; instant grits (if you like grits); syrup for pancakes/waffles; Spam - if you like it; potatoes and onions; canned tuna; corn meal but also Jiffy Corn bread mixes ... if you have an Aldi fairly close by, their canned goods are good and very reasonably priced - as is their cereal and oatmeal. Their spice section is good too and reasonable. In the fall they have canned fried apples that are as good as the apples at Cracker Barrel!

  • @denisehollebeke2725
    @denisehollebeke2725 Рік тому +8

    All students leaving home for college/university this fall for the 1st time should be made to watch this video. Great way to not only know what to stock but I love the price comparisons as well
    Thanks Christine 😊

    • @lovealwaysmom
      @lovealwaysmom Рік тому

      This is a nice idea. To add to this is "what they can make with this and how to do so" One thing to keep in mind is that if they are in dorms, most have it that they can't have small appliances. Also restrictions on extension cords.
      For me it isn't worth my while, both in time and cost of gas, to shop at more than one store.
      It would be fun to see your oldest children making a meal with a basic pantry. Keep in mind that as a college student doesn't have a lot of time or money to cook.

  • @caroldobbs2666
    @caroldobbs2666 Рік тому +1

    Our Dollar Tree has day old bread. If they r not sold by a certain date they will mark down to 50 cents. I got bagels, bread and English muffins the other day. Great deal. I know the bread is mainly just white bread but in these times it sure helps.

  • @gladyschandler6724
    @gladyschandler6724 Рік тому +2

    Supermarket Mexican section have great prices on some spices like bay leaves, cinnamon or H.E.B. has bulk spices.

  • @antiantipoda
    @antiantipoda Рік тому

    Living alone in Brazil, I think I have nailed the easiest way to always have cooked beans on hand. Two pounds of beans in a big pot. Cover with cold water. Tomorrow you add more water, so they are still covered and turn on the stove. Boil until cooked. Every half hour, go there, stir, add water if it needs and taste. Cool in a sink full of water with a couple of bottles of frozen water. Store in the fridge. Tomorrow, portion in open tupperwares and freeze. Remove the frozen blocks into a plastic bag. Yes, it is a few days of work only a few minutes each day, but it lasts for half a year for me. My stock of frozen beans is low, so now is the time to do this again.

  • @BookZealots
    @BookZealots Рік тому +14

    The cheap pasta sometimes goes on sale for 89 cents. I stock up when they're that price, but since the beginning of 2023, the prices at Walmart have gone up, quite a bit. (at least in my area). Some items are cheaper but not enough for me to make two shopping trips. We were shopping solely at Walmart for a few months, because our other grocery store was ridiculous, even with coupons. Walmart had better produce, but not lately. =( I love that you donated the food. We have a local food pantry as well and whenever I ask what they need, they respond with "everything."

    • @shellierobledo
      @shellierobledo Рік тому +2

      Kroger has pasta for 0.79/lb in Texas this week!

    • @danniemcdonald7675
      @danniemcdonald7675 Рік тому +1

      One of my local grocery stores has Ronco pasta on sale for $.79 this week. Looking closer, the shells are 7-8 Oz. and the spaghetti are 12 oz.

    • @lizacisneros9170
      @lizacisneros9170 Рік тому +2

      Our food max sometimes has pasta for sale for .88 and I stock up when they are on sale

    • @santaortega2198
      @santaortega2198 Рік тому

      Buy the Walmart brand 4 lbs of pasta for less money

    • @BookZealots
      @BookZealots Рік тому

      @@santaortega2198 four pounds?! My walmart doesn't sell that.

  • @PebblesSherry79
    @PebblesSherry79 Рік тому +2

    Totally agree with you on the beans in the Instant Pot! I struggled with making beans and never made a successful batch until I started using the Instant Pot! So easy and delicious!!

  • @JGreen1991
    @JGreen1991 Рік тому +4

    Pasta sauce, vinegar, bbq and tomato sauce. I know you have assorted herbs but a versatile seasoning for chicken, meat and veg is so handy for a dry rub or to be sprinkled on anything.
    Amazing list from you.

  • @jolenefarley3241
    @jolenefarley3241 Рік тому +2

    I move countries every couple of years and always have to deplete my pantry and restock. Even though I don't do my shopping at Wal-Mart/Dollar Tree, these videos help me so much to make a list and make sure I'm not forgetting any basics on my first grocery trip in a new place!

  • @scallopbunny
    @scallopbunny Рік тому +1

    Canned tomatoes are one of my favorite pantry staples. It's a great way to add veggies to almost anything, and a great soup is canned tomatoes, cooked beans, chicken broth, and carrots, onions, celery if you have them. Adding sausage and/or frozen greens is another good addition! Just season however you like and it's a huge, cheap pot of soup

  • @MamaMealPrep
    @MamaMealPrep Рік тому +1

    Not food related, but as a fellow gym goer…look at your biceps! You go girl!!!

  • @MT-US
    @MT-US Рік тому +4

    We have pantries in the local colleges, also. I plan on donating some pots and pans that I don't use or need there.
    I SO appreciate the bean tutorial; I have gotten some dried beans and have personally never cooked/seen them cooked. Very intimidating! This helps though! I just hope mine will taste good 😂
    Thank you!!

  • @Hookedbydani
    @Hookedbydani Рік тому

    You have to remember though, some people may only have a dollar tree or a Walmart. And not everyone has access to a vehicle. So they are limited to the places they can go to. But great ideas for those who can!

  • @homemommy6295
    @homemommy6295 Рік тому +1

    Don't forget to add cinnamon to your list. A really helpful spice and it makes baked goods even better.

  • @LeMErin21
    @LeMErin21 Рік тому

    Love the Princess Bride reference 😄

  • @terrip8451
    @terrip8451 Рік тому

    This is a good example of where you could shop both stores to save, getting the cheaper items at dollar tree and filling in the missing items with Walmart. The total would be between those two. I love shopping multiple stores because you can potentially save $100 or more by doing so. All those little savings add up in the end making the drive worth it.

  • @ninnymuggins5159
    @ninnymuggins5159 Рік тому +1

    LOL at the end, "No you hang up first!" 😄📞

  • @juliemoore6957
    @juliemoore6957 Рік тому +1

    Your haircut is super cute on you❤!

  • @jenniferfrudd3444
    @jenniferfrudd3444 Рік тому

    Buying 2nd hand small kitchen appliances… on this topic. This is also a great thing to do as an older homemaker. I am 67, retired, and have lots of time to cook and want to try the newer gadgets. In my house now, and using all of them, some more than others. Small rice cooker, waffle maker, mini dash waffle maker & bread machine. Also a Bundt pan, angel food cake pan. All bought from thrift stores. Now they may not be the most recently invented gadgets. But basically, before I order something from Amazon, I try to shop my local thrift stores first before I order. Just an idea. Definitely a frugal thing to do. At the same time my husband and I are on spurts and starts going thru all our belongings and donating 20 times more stuff than I am bringing back into the house.

  • @kamloopscruiser874
    @kamloopscruiser874 Рік тому +2

    ❤The only things I would add to your list is plain white vinegar for cooking and cleaning. Tins of tuna, salmon, soya sauce, ketchup, mustard, mayo, tomato paste and tinned tomatoes depending on personal preferences.
    I saw your friend Dawn the Minimal Mom suggest having a capsule of meals on repeat. I loved it and reduced my pantry to just what I need from spices to these basics plus a couple ethnic extras for our family to make 20 of our favourite meals. I’m gluten-free so I stock gf flour, and pasta.
    Makes keeping an emergency shelf easier too- stock what we normally use and buy on sales. Plus I buy meat on loss leader sales or the best deals at Costco and repack into sizes that work for my 20 or so favourite meals. I don’t have a separate freezer just the freezer section of my fridge and it still works. I shop my pantry and freezer for the best bargains.

  • @katteare2931
    @katteare2931 Рік тому

    I have two neighbors that are moving soon. They have each been purging and putting unwanted items out on the street. Each purged an Instant Pot and an Air Fryer, amongst other quick to disappear items. I scored an Instant Pot. Thanks for the bean lesson.
    I've also noticed those appliances at the thrift stores!

  • @rachalnocchi5600
    @rachalnocchi5600 Рік тому +9

    I totally posted this video on my Facebook page because whether you are a veteran, intermediate or novice in the kitchen, this video is a fantastic tutorial or refresher course! Thank you so much for posting this!🥰

  • @KatieK92
    @KatieK92 Рік тому +1

    Great video. 🙌🏻 For me a must have is canned tomatoes. Crushed, whole…doesn’t matter. You can make an easy sauce with it, or use ist for homemade pizza, even in soups or beans. They are super versatile. 😊

  • @davesskillet9235
    @davesskillet9235 Рік тому +4

    Nice that you care enough to help others in your community. Thanks for sharing

  • @JustClaireGrace
    @JustClaireGrace Рік тому +3

    Hey Christine, would you consider doing a video of recipes using beans? I don’t know how to use them really, but would like to.

    • @KO-lw4lo
      @KO-lw4lo Рік тому +1

      I second this request…

  • @mrsbethanyelise
    @mrsbethanyelise Рік тому

    I literally made a word document with common foods we buy, price per container and price per unit for both of our regular stores to see the best. Every bit helps!

  • @styxlover21
    @styxlover21 Рік тому

    My must-have to add is canned tomatoes!!! Can do so much with a can of tomatoes!

  • @angelafairman8150
    @angelafairman8150 Рік тому

    I would definitely add to the pantry some crushed tomatoes and some canned vegetables.

  • @carlarancatore-white4886
    @carlarancatore-white4886 Рік тому

    We added salad dressing to our basic pantry. You can add italian dressing and it has your vinegar, oil and your basic seasoning in it. Generic works wonders. Canned chicken, Raman, peanut butter, dry beans and mayo. We have a decent aldi in our area so we could really do this on a budget when we were getting started.

  • @LorreneRomanic
    @LorreneRomanic Рік тому

    Your ending reminded me of Ferris Bueller's Day off end credits. "You're still here? It's over! Go home..... Go" 🤣

  • @wildshadowstar
    @wildshadowstar Рік тому

    I think these kitchen tools are a must: a box grater, mandolin slicer, measuring cup for ounces, a vegetable peeler.

  • @suzettedorning9113
    @suzettedorning9113 Рік тому +2

    I LOVE dried beans! My fathers favorite recipe is an overnight baked bean dish with home mixed bbq sauce. It's been passed down through a couple of generations now, and I finally got it all typed up and legible so other family members can have it - but so far, they all just request me to make them! Haha!
    LOVE your channel!! I'm just a state away (west) from you. Not that I would stalk you. Most likely not. But... ya know... Lol!! Keep up the great channel!

  • @jessicavazquez8299
    @jessicavazquez8299 Рік тому

    I just started making my own beans from dried beans in the crockpot and it is SO EASY. I don't know why I always thought it would be so hard. We love black beans in our house. Rice & beans is a great filling base or side to any meal, & I love making tacos with them because I don't really like meat. They're super healthy & flavorful when you season them correctly. All I do is throw the dry beans with water - about 3 cups water to 1 cup beans (I don't pre-soak them) in the crockpot before I go to bed, put a couple cloves of garlic, a chunk of onion, a bay leaf or two, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, some chicken buillon & salt, cook on low & by morning time they are ready & the kitchen smells amazing :)

  • @jenniferrosenthal7731
    @jenniferrosenthal7731 Рік тому

    I would add pasta sauce, canned veggies, canned fruits, a couple of cream soups (chicken & mushroom), all purpose baking mix such as Bisquick

  • @theprofessor4914
    @theprofessor4914 7 місяців тому

    Nicely done. I hear from my students there are very few high schools teaching home ec/food science. My parents gave me a box of stuff after i graduated ftom college w the basics of kitchen goods and herbs and spices. So appreciated.

  • @charylliss3741
    @charylliss3741 Рік тому

    Crock pot even cheaper, low cook first thing in the morning BINGO! Beans by the time you get home 😊

  • @jeanniebuck4193
    @jeanniebuck4193 Рік тому

    My additions: white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, mustard, peanut butter, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce/red pepper flakes (for dressings, sauces & marinades)

  • @bannanna.
    @bannanna. Рік тому +2

    Can you please make school snacks or after school snacks groceries videos 😁 I think you already have one, not sure. But can you make a new one? For grade school kids and HS kids. Thank you 🫶🏻

  • @alexanderschwarm7755
    @alexanderschwarm7755 Рік тому

    Nothing makes me happier than a new uploadl from adorable Christine

  • @BettyHorn
    @BettyHorn Рік тому +1

    Canned tomatoes. Excellent beginning pantry!

  • @deesjourney213
    @deesjourney213 Рік тому +4

    I got my instant pot many years ago on Amazon Prime day also and was a little afraid of it for a bit. Once I watched a ton of videos on how to make beans I jumped in and now my family won’t eat beans any other way lol. I have even learned how to make my own baked beans and they are sooooooo much better than the canned baked beans and I used to doctor them up!

    • @firequeen2194
      @firequeen2194 Рік тому

      💯 concur. I use it for everything! Even learned to make my own Greek yogurt. So easy and so much better than store bought. 😋

  • @melma5910
    @melma5910 Рік тому +2

    I volunteer feeding the homeless and those in need. Ocassionaly, someone will get an apartment and I will shop for their startup pantry. I buy much the same as you described. I add a few convenience foods, instant coffee, peanut butter, seasoned tomatoes, loaf of bread and or saltines and a couple of canned heat n eat meals. These convenience foods provide a few days food until they gather things to cook with.
    I run an outdoor 24/7/365 food pantry. Beans will sit. I can't believe this nutritious, easy to cook, affordable, versatile ingredient sits on the shelves for months until I remove them. The pantry has a FB page and I include many delicious, easy recipes and they still sit.🤷‍♀️ 🤦‍♀️

    • @kimeverhart6253
      @kimeverhart6253 Рік тому

      Maybe, you could persuade someone to type up( print off) a little bunch of recipes that are easy to make with beans that most people like and somehow attached them to the beans. That might entice people to pick them up if they could see easy ways to prepare them. Hopefully?? Maybe if they were bundled with a package of rice as well?? They are incredibly nutritious this way!!
      Oh people!!

    • @melma5910
      @melma5910 Рік тому +1

      @@kimeverhart6253
      Thanks. I did all the above. I came back from the pantry about 30 minutes ago. It was well stocked this morning, when I was there. Almost everything is gone except 12 cans of beans 🤷‍♀️ 🤦‍♀️

    • @kimeverhart6253
      @kimeverhart6253 Рік тому

      @@melma5910, bless your heart…you tried!! Hopefully, when it cools down a little, it will be chili season and more people will want beans for chili and for soup. 🤞🏻🤞🏻🤞🏻❤️‍🩹♥️

  • @echomcclellan7079
    @echomcclellan7079 Рік тому

    ,Small pasta like rotini, wavy noodles, etc.
    Cream of mushroom soup
    Tuna fish, canned
    - with those ingredients you can make tuna noodles in a pot for a meal
    Spaghetti
    Jar or can of spaghetti sauce
    - make a simple spaghetti dinner
    Mac and cheese
    Ramen noodles
    Canned fruit or vegetables for sides

  • @kathybullmer8884
    @kathybullmer8884 Рік тому +5

    Thank you for sharing this information! I love my Instant pot, I use mine every week.

    • @janetmarieleo7522
      @janetmarieleo7522 Рік тому +2

      Are use my instant pot a couple times a week. Usually because I’m canning some thing. I have done all kinds of beans in it. However, my husband likes when I do the northern beans. Are usually trim up our bacon if we have it in the house. I see those trimmings in a freezer bag or any extra ham left over. I just have a bag for that and I sauté it really well in the instant pot and your beans in there and your water and it’s really quite tasty. Anytime there’s a get together, I make trees and trees of beans but I use my instant pot so I can do it in batches and then I bake it off with bacon on top of it

  • @yanak7159
    @yanak7159 Рік тому +1

    Pasta sauce is essential in our pantry.

  • @chandrahernandez5201
    @chandrahernandez5201 Рік тому

    Rogue and Speedy for president!!! Need to try Pantry Essentials for various cultures

  • @AB-zr8pu
    @AB-zr8pu Рік тому

    I think you did one before, but maybe revisit kitchen basics. What tools are vital. A good knife, cutting board, etc. Also i would add some canned veggies to your basic list. They often go on really good sales and having canned (or frozen) veggies on hand can really help a meal stretch and make it more interesting. A can of spicy diced tomatoes and corn added to the beans and rice is a perfect batch cook/easily portioned meal to get through the week before payday.

  • @amy2284
    @amy2284 7 місяців тому

    Cinnamon, raisins and vanilla extract are great too.

  • @bobbie9522
    @bobbie9522 Рік тому

    I store my dry pasta in empty plastic pretzel barrels after my kids eat all the pretzels. I also use the cheeseballs containers too.

  • @ashleylee7523
    @ashleylee7523 Рік тому

    I always look forward to your videos & your humor 😂 I love both lol

  • @Ozarkmountainoutback1
    @Ozarkmountainoutback1 Рік тому

    Fantastic gift for newlyweds too!

  • @mdoe37
    @mdoe37 Рік тому +2

    I've been picking up the basic Walmart spices....but Dollar Tree Pepper and a HUGE seasoning salt. They get tossed into a bag and donated to the local food pantry...something people don't often donate.

    • @janeentumbao8690
      @janeentumbao8690 Рік тому

      Aldi usually has good deals on seasonings too if you have one by you.

  • @brendaleick
    @brendaleick Рік тому

    Christine, i love what you share! But, I couldn't live without pasta and canned tomato products. Also, i shopped my basics at Winco and then came home and compared my receipt to Wal-Mart's app. Oh, boy! I thought you'd beat me, but, apparently in my area Winco beat out Walmart on just about every item. A price comparison with your Winco to your Walmart Basic Pantry haul might be in order. Things change. We have to stay on it! Again, your channel is so worthwhile. Ill bet a lot of future college grads say "I couldn't have made it through school debt-free without Frugal Fit Mom. You rock!

  • @conniemcright7986
    @conniemcright7986 Рік тому

    I volunteer at our food pantry. I really enjoy it.

  • @Ethereal_glamgirl
    @Ethereal_glamgirl Рік тому +1

    I love this video especially comparing Walmart and dollar tree both stores are also in Canada so it’s really helpful.

  • @joannasanchez5516
    @joannasanchez5516 Рік тому

    I really wanna thank you for this and the 10 prepper items video. I'm trying to build a better pantry and start budgeting more on groceries.

  • @rayeann7661
    @rayeann7661 Рік тому +3

    I am Gluten Free. IMO the Great Value Gluten Free flour is the best bang for your buck for both quality and price.

  • @elizabethroth9489
    @elizabethroth9489 Рік тому

    Shortening and self rising flour for making biscuits, Basil,bay leaves, rosemary ,sage and mint, peanut butter and jelly, mayo and mustard, relish, pasta sauce, and some cream soups (chicken celery mushroom and onion) some gravy mixes and sauce mixes in packets bread crumbs or panko crumbs powder creamer evaporated milk

  • @authoremilyjosephine
    @authoremilyjosephine Рік тому +1

    I remember when you could buy ORGANIC dry beans from Whole Foods for under a dollar a pound... And speaking of beans...
    Either when you soak them, or when you cook them (or both), add a few pinches of baking soda to the water. It will neutralize the element that makes beans cause gas/bloating.

  • @ninnymuggins5159
    @ninnymuggins5159 Рік тому +1

    You can buy gluten-free versions of pasta, pancake mix and flour, and you can substitute monkfruit and stevia for sugars.

  • @vickirobison2902
    @vickirobison2902 Рік тому

    Wish my dollar store looked like yours. Thanks for all the tips :)

  • @laurab8450
    @laurab8450 Рік тому

    I would add a bottle of vanilla or other flavorings to a basic pantry. Great video!

  • @szuyukuo2734
    @szuyukuo2734 Рік тому

    My essential in my kitchen are corn can, tuna can, instant noodles , penne, roasted seaweed , instant miso soup packets, dried seaweed ,soup stock bag , meat stewed powder, hot pot base, glass noodles, udon, knife cut noodles and dry shiitake. These might be very different from all your pantries because most of food I made are Asian food. Still hope this list can help!

  • @shellierobledo
    @shellierobledo Рік тому

    Bread crumbs, canned tomato, canned veggies, condiments (ketchup, mustard, mayo, bbq Sauce), vinegar, peanut butter, jelly, vegetable or canola oil, crisco, boxed mixes (biscuits, cornbread, muffins etc), powdered milk or shelf stable milk, corn syrup, Molasses, Pancake syrup, honey, I could go on and on 😅

  • @staceyswearengen-yi9sc
    @staceyswearengen-yi9sc Рік тому

    I found vinegars to be a staple for me. White vinegar, red wine vinegar, white wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar and balsamic.

  • @nathalieleblanc8536
    @nathalieleblanc8536 Рік тому

    Vanilla is a must in my pantry

  • @maryandrusyk8702
    @maryandrusyk8702 Рік тому

    We always have canned tomato paste, cream of (chicken, celery, mushroom) soup, peanut butter (along with items mentioned in video)