How to Host Thanksgiving on a Budget
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There may be some way around the rising costs this coming Thanksgiving.
For many families, Thanksgiving is the one time of year when they come together to share a meal. But as food costs continue to rise, our favorite holiday feast is becoming increasingly expensive.
The bird flu has directly impacted Thanksgiving plans – and our wallets. According to the American Farm Bureau Federation, turkey price is expected to hit a record high this holiday season, as the bird flu has decreased turkey production. In addition, inflation's impact on fuel, feed, and labor costs has also played a role in driving up prices.
If you're on a tight budget, here are a few ways to cut costs without sacrificing tradition or flavor.
Stick to a Simple Menu
Everything is indeed big in Texas. But when budgeting for holiday meals (What wine goes well with holiday meals?), less is more. Preparing an overly ambitious menu can be costly in terms of money and time. Not to mention the increased likelihood of making mistakes. By sticking to a more straightforward menu, you can save yourself a lot of hassle and expense.
A traditional Thanksgiving feast, for example, typically consists of turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy, a vegetable, and cranberry sauce. Of course, pumpkin pie is also a must-have dessert. While this may not seem like much variety, it's more than enough to satisfy the appetites of most guests. And if you're worried about leftovers, remember that turkey makes excellent sandwiches.
So feel free to prepare a manageable number of dishes to have a successful holiday meal. Stick to a simple menu, and enjoy the extra time and money you'll save.
If you're looking to downscale this Thanksgiving (or to nurture some new traditions), here are some Ideas to Help Plan Your Small Holiday Dinner!
Use What You Already Have
This Thanksgiving, save money and reduce waste by using what you already have. Before heading to the grocery store, take inventory of your fridge, freezer, and pantry to ensure you're not buying things you already have. This will help you stick to your budget and avoid overspending.
When it comes to decorations, avoid buying things that are only meant to be used once. Instead, focus on timeless pieces that can be reused year after year. The same goes for plates and tableware.
Opt for simple, classic items that can be used for any occasion. By following these tips, you'll be able to save money and reduce your environmental impact this holiday season.
Shop Early
This Thanksgiving, save money by shopping early. Grabbing non-perishables ahead, especially when you see them on sale, helps spread out your costs and avoids supply chain crises, should they arise.
The holiday rush could lead to shortages of certain items and higher prices for those available. However, by shopping early, you can take advantage of sales and ensure you have everything you need for a stress-free Thanksgiving feast. So don't wait until the last minute - start your holiday shopping now!
If you're handling dessert duties this year, here's A List of Places You Can Order Some Scrumptious Thanksgiving Pies in Texas and become the new family favorite!
Share Bulk Ingredients
One way to help offset the costs of hosting a Thanksgiving dinner is to split the cost of ingredients with another person who is also hosting their dinner. This can be a great way to save money, especially if you need to buy items that you don't usually use or that are expensive.
For example, suppose you must buy a large quantity of a particular spice. In that case, you can split the cost with someone also making Thanksgiving dinner. This can help you save money and avoid having too much of one ingredient left over. In addition, buying ingredients in bulk is often cheaper than buying them individually, so splitting the cost with someone else can help you get a better price.
Ultimately, sharing the cost of Thanksgiving dinner preparation with another person can help offset the expense and make the holiday more affordable for everyone involved.
There are countless spice blends worldwide, and Texas alone produces nearly a hundred varieties. The state's most popular and bestselling bottle spice blends can be individually checked at our TexasRealFood Promptuary.
Choose Less Expensive Meat
The cost of turkey has risen sharply in recent years, making it one of the most expensive items on the Thanksgiving table. As a result, many families opt for alternative birds, such as chicken or duck, to offset this cost. Others are choosing to serve cheaper cuts of meat, such as ham or roast beef. Some even purchase just turkey breast if they really want to have a turkey but not the entire bird!
For many Americans, Thanksgiving is synonymous with turkey. However, this was only sometimes the case. Game meats were once a standard part of the American diet, and there is evidence to suggest that they were served at the first Thanksgiving feast.
While turkey is a traditional Thanksgiving dish, it is not the only option. If you are feeling adventurous, several other options can make for a delicious and memorable meal.
If you're looking for something different this year, why not try one of these delicious game meats? Guinea hen, pheasant, and duck are all excellent options, and they can be prepared in various ways. So whether you're looking for a traditional roast or something a bit more creative, there's sure to be game meat that will suit your fancy.
Broken Arrow Ranch is the best purveyor of high-quality wild animals: from wild boar, wild venison, wild game sausages, and antelope. In addition, they deliver fresh grass-fed meats straight from their farm! Find other local family farms producing game meat through the TexasRealFood Promptuary.
Localize Your Menu
This year, put a unique spin on your holiday spread using seasonal ingredients sourced from local Texas farmers. Not only will this give your dishes a taste of the Lone Star State, but it'll also help you save on your grocery bill.
Seasonal produce is typically more affordable than out-of-season items, so you can stretch your budget a little further. Plus, you'll support the local economy and help to keep small businesses afloat.
When sourcing ingredients for your holiday feast, check the labels carefully. Look for items that say "Texas grown" or "locally sourced" to be sure you're getting the real deal. Or plan your shopping and find a farmers market near you. With some planning, you can enjoy a delicious and affordable meal that celebrates the best of what Texas offers.
Often, the produce you could find in farmers' markets can't be found in traditional stores. But, more importantly, the markets are more than just places to buy – they are a pillar of the local community. So grab your market list and head to some of Texas's Best Farmers' Markets.
Delegate
This Thanksgiving, delegate! Ask your guests to contribute something to the meal. Most people like to feel like they're helping, so if they ask what they can bring, be ready to give them an assignment.
Of course, there are some things to take into consideration. For example, if your guests come from out of town, it may not be practical for them to bring food or other supplies. If they offer, great! But if not, be considerate and don't put them in an awkward position.
By delegating some of the work, you'll be able to enjoy your holiday more. And who knows, your guests will appreciate it too!
Some ideas include wine, pie, and even sides that they can prepare themselves or order from a local restaurant or food producer.
Summary
For many families, the cost of Thanksgiving dinner is a cause for concern. With the price of turkey and other traditional holiday fixings rising, it can be challenging to keep costs under control. However, you can stretch your budget and enjoy a delicious Thanksgiving feast in many ways. For example, don't be afraid to get creative with your menu. Plenty of delicious Thanksgiving dishes can be made on a budget. By following our Thanksgiving tips, you can ensure that your holiday dinner won't break the bank.
Are you looking for a unique way to celebrate Thanksgiving? Get Away This Thanksgiving to Discover Texas! Of course, traveling for Thanksgiving doesn't automatically mean giving up all of those cherished traditions. You can still have the all-American feast, play football, and do the turkey trot-- only from a luxurious destination or staying in a cozy vacation rental.
