From dipping cups to deep freezers
01.01.70
The West Loop is full of wholesalers who sell to the public. The fresh foods and florists are flanked by at least three restaurant equipment sellers on West Madison. Everything from dipping cups to deep freezers entice cooking-savvy passersby. Yesterday that included my friend Sylvestre, and so we dropped in on CJM Equipment, Inc. while on a “West Loop Wandering.”
For years I’ve walked by, intimidated by 10-burner cooking ranges and pots large enough to bathe in. I would talk myself out of going in with the question, “What would I possibly buy in enough bulk to warrant the store clerk’s time?”
First of all, though dish ware is priced by the dozen, most everything is sold individually. Second, there are a lot of really useful cooking utensils, pans, and serving dishes to service even the smallest kitchen and the most novice cook. We had a great time perusing the shelves while imagining what proper plating and perfect pastries could be had given the right tools.
Source: Chicago Journal (blog)
FRUGAL FRIDAYS: How To Use Your Freezer To Save Big Bucks
01.01.70
Second, just because you have a huge freezer doesn’t mean you have to fill it to bursting. Just like with any stockpile, moderation is the key. The people on the Extreme Couponing show would have us believe that more is better. (I really hate that show, but that’s for another article!) However, always be mindful of how much you are actually going to use. Again, throwing out food is not cost effective.
Third, it is a good idea to label your food with what it is and the date it was frozen. Food is not always identifiable after it is frozen so labeling saves you from taking out chicken for dinner and then having pork to cook. (Er . . . yeah, I learned that one from experience.) Putting the date on packages also ensures you use the oldest items first. Just like a non perishable stockpile, you always want to rotate your stock.
Although not everyone has the space or funds to have a stand alone freezer, the tips above can be used with your regular freezer as well. Just remember to think beyond your weekly grocery needs when you do your shopping and plan your meals around what is on sale and what you have in your stockpile.
Source: Connecticut Watchdog