I was talking to a friend of mine about food. We were talking about how much each of our families spend on food each month. They have three people in their family and we have four. I said we spend about $1500 on food per month. My friend was surprised that I spend so little. My husband was surprised I spend that much!

According to the United States Department of Agriculture, the average family of four spends between $567 and $1296 per month on food. That is a gluten-eating family.

At my house, I don’t buy a lot of gluten free substitutes. I subscribe to a service that provides a box of organic, farm-fresh produce every two weeks. I buy proteins and gluten free bread in bulk at Costco. I use my crock pot a lot. We try to stretch things and cook as much as possible.

I don’t do gluten free pasta (never liked pasta). I buy gluten free cookies or pretzels when they are buy one get one free. I shred or cut up potatoes for hash browns or French fries (my faves). Making my own stock from leftover chicken parts. I buy chicken with bones (to help with my stock).

I’m a big fan of soups and stews fortified with beans. I cook one day and we have leftovers for two more days. Or I can mix it up. I made roast for French dip sandwiches last night. I’ve got a ton of leftovers and we may have sandwiches again! Or maybe quesadillas or maybe some other casserole, but something delicious.

When I do buy convenience foods, nobody else gets to eat them. In my freezer, I often have gluten free pizza from Costco. I also have gluten free chicken nuggets, Brazi Bites, and gluten free boom boom shrimp. I will occasionally share, but not often.

I have been indulging in a special treat for me. I’ve been eating a lot of gluten free cinnamon toast. In other words, toast with a bunch of butter, sugar, and cinnamon. I’ve been loving my cinnamon toast lately!

Anyway, I’ve told you some of my secrets on how I save money on gluten free eating. Tell me yours.

How much do you spend in a month on food for your family? What are some cost savings techniques you use to keep your gluten free grocery bill down?

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