The current year’s drought has caused a surge in the price of staple food, with holiday staples not being an exemption. As revealed by the recent Consumer Price Index, poultry is nearly 5% more expensive than last year, with turkey prices increasing by 6%.
Here are a few tips to avoid turkey costs eating into your Thanksgiving dinner budget:
1. Opt for a Smaller Turkey: A bigger turkey does not necessarily equate to better, especially when its cost is determined by weight. With all the delicious side dishes that accompany a Thanksgiving meal, a smaller turkey can save both money and calories.
2. Purchase Early: To get the best turkey prices, buy now when the supply is greatest, even buying extra for Christmas. Make use of apps like Coupon Sherpa to identify the best prices; some shops will match their competitor’s prices.
3. Ask for Promotions: Some grocery stores offer free or heavily discounted turkeys when shoppers spend a certain amount. Safeway, for instance, is offering frozen turkeys for $7.99 (up to 16 lbs) when you spend $25 in store. Speak with your local store manager to learn about upcoming turkey promotions.
4. Spread the Load: Don’t shoulder the entire cost of a Thanksgiving meal if you are hosting. Invite attendees to bring a dish they love to share, leaving you with more budget for the main dish.
5. Don’t Stress, Just Improve: What’s crucial is that if the main course goes wrong – maybe it’s undercooked, overcooked or tasteless – don’t worry. Food & Wine offer plenty of tips to help you rescue the meal.
6. Borrow Serving Items: If you lack adequate serving utensils or bakeware for a Thanksgiving feast, consider borrowing these items from friends or family. You can save by gradually stocking up on these items instead of buying them all at once during the holidays.
7. The Merits of Doing it Yourself: Homemade dishes might be time-consuming, but they are better economically and taste-wise. While ready-made dishes might seem more convenient, they usually priced 40% to 100% higher. Maintain your budget and satisfy your palate by cooking from scratch.
8. Purchase Alcohol in Bulk: Stores like Costco and Sam’s Club are a good bargain for alcohol due to their cost-effective bulk buying options. You could also ask your guests to bring their preferred drinks to further minimize costs.
9. Opt for Minimal Decor: Holiday decorations are delightful, but too much can lead to clutter. For the sake of your pocket and peace of mind, keep decorations simple and tasteful. Choose a fall centerpiece or natural-fiber turkey that blends well with your everyday decor.
