But anyways you need to buy ingredients in order to make your meal. Elementary, I know, but you actually need more than you think. Your mother has been building her kitchen arsenal for...how old are you? Take that and add a few years-that's how long she's been accumulating the tools. You are a freshly minted adult and have nothing. There are a lot of things you are so used to having you just forget you need them. My first day of college I realized I forgot to bring hand soap. I had to use my body wash for a week until I could make it to the store.
But you need to get some stuff in order before committing to your new life as a chef, or be comfortable enough to beg your neighbors for a cup of sugar. This can get costly if you don't shop smart.
Tips For Shopping Smart
You need to shop smart, your still a broke student. You don't need top of the line-stainless steel-to cook a decent meal. If you can mcgyver a pan with a coconut, go ahead, whatever does the trick is great. If you're not that inventive you may need to shop. Don't be afraid to shop around. You'll be surprised what you can find if you keep your eyes peeled. If your funds are limited, don't go to the obvious stores: Walmart, Target, Macy's etc. Instead go to cheaper places.
The Dollar Store, Dollar General, Dollar Tree (any variation there-of): You can find some great stuff here. It's not all sub-standard. Did you know most of these places just get the superfluous stock from other stores? Yup. The items vacillate but there's always something there for much cheaper than anywhere else. Your welcome.
Thrift Stores: There's also a lot you can find here. If you're a pro you can find top of the line gently used items here. WIN! I once found a new Prada Bag.
Amazon/Ebay: The internet is a beautiful, beautiful thing. Use it. Also keep an eye out for lots. You can find everything you want more conveniently and cheaper than going to a department store.
Mom's Pantry: Any self respecting college student should know to raid the kitchen whenever you go home. This is one of the few times you can ever get something brand name. Bonus: This is free, it might cost an extra hug but come on those taking econ., 'opportunity cost.'
What You'll Need
The contents of your kitchen will obviously vary on what you plan to use that week. So your grocery list will fluctuate. I suggest making a meal plan for that week before going shopping. Stick to your list! Minimize frivolous spending. You don't need that cheesecake you just passed...unless it's on your list. So make a list, and I strongly, strongly advise only buying for the upcoming week and a half (max). Trust me, you don't want carry your weight in groceries up three flights of stairs and have to take multiple trips. On one of your first trips you'll need some start up things. These are common, important, and general ingredients.
- Spices: Of all kinds. Get ready for the Indian Spice Trail. You need Cajun, Cinnamon Paprika, Cumin, Salt, Pepper, Chili Powder, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Basil, Seasoning Salt, Cayenne, Lemon Pepper...AND Nutmeg. These are just basics. Don't think you can do without. You might be able to if you prefer tasteless, bland, unappetizing, uninspired, unpleasurable, and over-all boring. If not take the plunge and invest.
- Your parents already bought you some cooking supplies but did they get everything? I can almost guarantee some gaps.
- Pots, pans, cutlery, knife set, cutting board, cookie sheet, broiler, crock-pot (there are cheapo mini ones), colander, spatula, whisk, wooden-spoon, mixing bowls, measuring cups etc
- Oil: Canola, Vegetable, Olive. I dare you to cook without it.
- Eggs
- Milk
- Bread
- Cheese
- Meat
- Potatoes
- Note: Shop around for all the aforementioned things
