Reducing Food Waste Through Creative Cooking
The Food Waste Problem
The average American household throws away $1,500 worth of food each year. By learning to cook with what you have, you can save money and reduce waste. Most "leftover" ingredients can become the star of a delicious meal.
Flexible Cooking
Most recipes are more flexible than they seem. Missing an ingredient? There's usually a substitute. Have extra vegetables? Add them to the mix. The best home cooks know how to improvise with what's on hand.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do leftovers last in the fridge?
Most cooked foods last 3-4 days in the fridge. Raw meat should be used within 1-2 days (chicken) or 3-5 days (beef). Cooked rice and pasta last 3-4 days. When in doubt, use the smell test and look for visible mold or off colors.
What are the most versatile ingredients to always have?
Eggs, onions, garlic, canned tomatoes, pasta, rice, and cheese are incredibly versatile. With these staples plus almost any protein or vegetable, you can make dozens of different dishes. They also have long shelf lives.
Can I freeze leftover ingredients?
Most ingredients freeze well: raw meat (3-6 months), cooked rice (1-2 months), cheese (3-6 months), bread (3 months). Avoid freezing: raw eggs in shell, mayonnaise, lettuce, and high-water vegetables like cucumbers.
What can I do with vegetable scraps?
Save onion ends, celery leaves, carrot tops, and herb stems in a freezer bag. When full, simmer with water for homemade vegetable stock. This "free" stock is better than store-bought and reduces waste to nearly zero.