I actually do much of what you advise with the exception of stocking up -- for most items. I do notice many herbs and spices losing their potency after a few months (powdered ginger, for example, just doesn't last). So I buy in small amounts, as needed, from my local health food store. They buy in bulk and package the herbs, and they cost me the same amount per ounce whether I buy a lot or a little. I save by buying small amounts because I don't end up throwing so much out.
I've done bulk ordering through a co-op and through Penzey's, and each time, I have ended up throwing out quite a bit after a year.
I also freeze a ton of basil in the summer -- enough to give me several pesto meals and flavor many more dishes during the winter.
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agree with everything except...
Submitted by Deirdre on March 10, 2008 - 19:27.
I actually do much of what you advise with the exception of stocking up -- for most items. I do notice many herbs and spices losing their potency after a few months (powdered ginger, for example, just doesn't last). So I buy in small amounts, as needed, from my local health food store. They buy in bulk and package the herbs, and they cost me the same amount per ounce whether I buy a lot or a little. I save by buying small amounts because I don't end up throwing so much out.
I've done bulk ordering through a co-op and through Penzey's, and each time, I have ended up throwing out quite a bit after a year.
I also freeze a ton of basil in the summer -- enough to give me several pesto meals and flavor many more dishes during the winter.