Let's chat about a major life decision we all have to make at some point. Have you ever stood in the kitchen peering into your open refrigerator, rub your stomach and question if you even want what's in there? Lemme tell ya, this #adulting action is a prime example of deciding whether to cook (or reheat leftovers) or to order something hot from UberEats.
Cooking at Home vs. Eating Out: Which Is Better for Your Budget?

When it comes to feeding yourself and your family, the decision to cook at home or eat out often boils down to two things: cost and convenience. From meal-prepped delivery services to fast food or sit in restaurants, dining out offers a world of options that are undeniably convenient. But like what's in your wallet? Does the ease of grabbing a quick meal from somewhere (that will only serve you for one meal) justify the hit to your wallet? On the other hand, cooking at home may take more time, but it allows you to control costs, portion sizes, and ingredients. For those of us looking to stretch a dollar (especially in the spirit of Chef Linda's upcoming book about being vegan and broke in college), cooking at home is often the smarter budgeting choice. You can buy ingredients in bulk, cook multiple servings at once, and re-purpose leftovers – all of which make your food budget go further.

I like to look at things from a simplified perspective, because my earthy air-sign self tends to overthink a task only to realize I was right about whatever conclusion I came to on the topic. That said, grocery shopping isn't as time-consuming as it used to be, thanks to the growing availability of store pickup services and shop-and-deliver options from Instacart and Doordash. Simple, right? These services can save you time and energy while making it so much easier for you to stick to your budget. Instead of roaming store aisles and giving in to impulse buys, you can plan meals ahead of time and shop with intention. I have no complaints for the ease of use and accessibility of these shop-and-deliver service providers that offer convenience and control over what you spend on food.
Of course, eating out does come with its own hidden costs. Beyond the obvious financial impact, frequently dining out – whether it’s fast food, meal deliveries, or dining at a restaurant – tends to come with larger portion sizes and higher fat, sugar, and sodium content than home-cooked meals. This can take a toll on your health over time, especially if you're trying to stay mindful of what you're putting into your body. On top of that, meal delivery services, while convenient, often charge additional fees for delivery and service, making your total spend significantly higher than what you'd pay if you were cooking that same meal at home. That's why our Culinary Nutritionist Chef Linda has curated Teal Garden Nutrition's weekly meal prep menu for October that fits the seasonal flavors and meals that comfort and fortify you!

At the end of the day, the decision to cook or dine out is a personal one that depends on your budget and lifestyle. If you're someone who has a tight budget after all living expenses are paid, cooking at home is usually the most budget-friendly option. If time is an issue, plan ahead with batch cooking or take advantage of grocery pickup services. For those who do decide to eat out, make it a mindful choice – knowing it’s a treat, not a daily routine, can help you manage both your health and your wallet. The key is balance: understanding your needs, your time, and your financial reality.
I'd love to know how you combat your hunger cravings. Let me know in the comments what factors lead you to decide how you and your family will eat for the day, week or month. Until then, check out Teal Garden Nutrition's 100% plant-based vegan weekly meal prep menu at www.tealgardenn.com/menus
I look forward to reading your comments!
Sending you off with Love and Light,
Written by Linda Montgomery
Vegan Culinary Nutritionist & Chef at Teal Garden Nutrition
Published October 15, 2024
Edited October 17, 2024
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