With the holidays fast approaching, many families are looking to enjoy traditional, wallet-friendly meals. Chef Mark Dieser, manager, Food Services and Culinary, Centre for Trades and Technologies, says you don’t need premium ingredients, just simple planning, creativity and a touch of love.
“Expensive holiday meals can cause stress for many, especially considering the impacts of inflation and variable pricing,” says Dieser. “By making a few thoughtful choices, you can get the flavours you love while keeping costs under control.”
The first step, Dieser says, is to plan ahead by creating a menu and shopping list to reduce impulse purchases. It’s also important to consider weekly sales and off-brand products to help stretch food dollars, especially for baking staples and vegetables.
“Turkey is often the centrepiece of many holiday dinners, but it doesn’t have to be,” explains Dieser. “Smaller cuts, such as turkey breasts or thighs, often cost less and cook faster. You can also consider roasting a whole chicken, ham or plant-based mains, like stuffed squash, to satisfy cravings at a lower price.”
Dieser says seasonal produce is a friend of the frugal this time of year, with many dishes sharing ingredients – like onions, carrots, potatoes and herbs – that can help stretch a meal with easy side dishes.
“Root vegetables, winter greens and simple herbs can create hearty dishes that feel special without adding to your grocery bills,” he says. “Stuffing, roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes tend to be inexpensive and are easy to scale for groups of any size. Making gravy from pan drippings or using day-old or dried bread for stuffing can further reduce costs and food waste.”
And, he says holiday desserts, which can be real crowd pleasers, don’t need to be elaborate to feel festive. Apple crisp, gingerbread, shortbread and other seasonal staples can satisfy any sweet tooth at a lower cost.
“At the end of the day, people remember time spent together far more than the size of the meal,” Dieser says. “A simple, well-planned holiday dinner can still feel warm, generous and memorable.”
For aspiring chefs who want to take their passion to the next level, Lethbridge Polytechnic offers three culinary programs that can lead to a Red Seal designation: Culinary Arts, Cook Apprenticeship and Baker Apprenticeship. Learn more by visiting: lethpolytech.ca/culinary.