Have you decided to clean out your pantry and freezer and take part in the pantry challenge? It’s something I do every spring as I get ready for the next season’s harvest. I’m pretty good at planning our meals from what we have on hand, but this time of year I make a big effort to use up what is still left from the last harvest.
The best part about the challenge is getting my freezers organized and having an updated inventory. I now know exactly what I have on hand, at least in my freezers!
Last week went well, I managed to use up some of my frozen peppers by making Corn and Cheddar Cakes. We also enjoyed a delicious roast turkey, well actually only ½ turkey. When we purchased our turkey from our neighbor we also purchased one ½ turkey. The ½ of the turkey was huge, couldn’t have imagined the size it it had been whole!
This week I am continuing the challenge. It will be a short week as we will be away for the weekend. Instead we will be enjoying our daughter’s cooking. Looks like I’ll have to continue the challenge for yet another week.
Here is our menu for the week:
Monday: Herbed Stuffed Shells (Pasta from the pantry)
Tuesday: Pork chops (from the freezer)
Wednesday: Bolognese (from the freezer)
Sunday: Whatever looks good in the leftover department!
I love trying to be creative with what I have on hand. I realize that even when I am not focusing on the challenge I am going to the grocery store less and less. When I do go it is only to buy produce. Our meat is being raised locally, I make most of our bread, dairy I sometimes purchase from the local farmer’s market or else purchase raw milk directly from a local farmer and make my own yogurt, etc. Trying always to eat close to the source!
How are you doing with your challenge?
Nancy on the Home Front 