1.) Pre-chop and freeze bulk items you use a lot of in soups, stews, and stir fry's for easier and quicker preperation: Onions, Peppers, Carrots, Celery, Potatoes, etc. To thaw before adding, simply rinse under hot water, in a colander until veggies are soft.

2.) Is that bag of potatoes starting to go bad? Chop and shred, then freeze, for instant hashbrowns for breakfasts. You can also deydrate chunks of potato for soups or casseroles later. Store in airtight plastic bags inside a plastic tub, to keep moisture in the air from reaching dried items.

3.) Money Saving Tip: One serving of meat is about the size of a deck of cards. Buy meat in bulk and cut huge slices/portions in half to make twice as many meals out of the package as you normally would.

NEW TO KAT'S KITCHEN

Nutritional Guidelines for each age group (Under Healthy). Look in this category for other nutritional information as well.