Get ready to unlock the secrets to savvy cooking and smart budgeting with Anne Milneck of Red Stick Spice. We traverse Anne's inspiring leap from culinary aficionado to the proprietor of a gourmet grocery haven, serving up indispensable advice for enhancing your meals without breaking the bank. As food costs rise, our conversation is more timely than ever—packed with tips that will transform your kitchen practices, from reducing waste to creative meal planning that makes every dollar count.

Ever find yourself dismayed by the amount of food that ends up in the trash? Anne and I tackle this head-on, revealing how a 'stock bag' can turn scraps into rich homemade stock and discussing the power of proper food storage and labeling—techniques that not only minimize waste but also maximize flavor and freshness. We also unpack the art of managing bulk purchases, the merits of glass containers, and the glory of a well-utilized sheet pan to make your cooking routine as efficient as it is delicious.

If you're longing to keep your meals exciting without constantly reaching for the takeout menu, we've got you covered. Anne offers up her strategy for themed meals and the importance of a reliable fallback recipe, ensuring you've always got something up your sleeve for those hectic nights. We also step into the Red Stick Spice classroom, where cooking techniques are demystified for novices and food enthusiasts alike, proving that gourmet grocery stores are a treasure trove for anyone eager to learn. With these lessons in your apron pocket, you'll be cooking with confidence, reducing waste, and savoring every bite of your budget-friendly creations.

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Welcome to Money Matters, the podcast that focuses on how to use the money you have, make the money you need and save the money you want – brought to you by Neighbors Federal Credit Union.

The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional advice.